Press Release

Novell Announces NEST Server Software Development Kit 1.0

Kit Targets Manufacturers of CD Servers and Other Storage Servers for Easy Networking

NETWORLD+INTEROP, ATLANTA -- September 17, 1996 -- Novell, Inc. today announced the NEST™ Server Software Development Kit (SDK) v1.0, a new NEST Server SDK which allows manufacturers of storage subsystems to add network server and directory capabilities into CD servers, RAID systems, tape libraries and other peripheral storage products. The NEST Server SDK will provide the necessary source code and tools to enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to create storage subsystems that can be easily accessed over the network, without requiring a separate NetWare® Loadable Module™ (NLM™). This announcement advances Novell's mission to raise the number of intelligent devices utilized across business networks and intranets -- creating networks that provide businesses with an enduring competitive edge.

"We developed the NEST Server SDK v1.0 in response to demand we received from manufacturers of storage system servers and other server-type devices, who expressed a strong desire to add built-in network and directory functionality to their products," said John Harris, director of office automation for Novell's Extended Networks Division. "Historically, storage servers were housed in secure sites and incorporating them into networks was difficult and time consuming. By using NEST-embedded servers, users can decrease network administration costs by enabling system administrators to quickly set up, configure and manage these storage systems."

The new NEST Server SDK is a solution for OEMs to deliver to their business customers plug-and-play storage devices that take complete advantage of Novell® Directory Services™ (NDS™), Novell's industry-leading global directory. NDS is the leading directory for naming, finding, managing and securing information across private networks, intranets and the Internet. NDS provides network administrators with a central view of the entire network, offering an efficient way to manage devices distributed across multiple sites and remote locations.

With a NEST-embedded storage server, users can map a drive to that storage device, authenticate, and then read and write files to it. The NEST-enabled storage server is also directly accessible from the NDS tree.

About NEST

NEST was developed to facilitate the connection of intelligent devices in networked environments, enabling users to access and share a wide variety of resources. Using NEST, OEMs can incorporate Novell NetWare® and IntranetWare™ technology into their intelligent devices, such as copiers, fax machines, multi-function products, printers and scanners. These devices are then able to participate as clients on Novell networks, giving users increased access to networked capabilities. Additionally, NEST allows OEMs to leverage Novell NetWare's installed base of more than 55 million users.

Additional NEST product offerings include:

  • NEST Autoroute™ -- a routing technology for fax services
  • NEST Client SDK v1.2 -- a general purpose SDK
  • NEST Office SDK v1.0 -- An embedded client SDK for hard-copy output devices

Pricing and Availability

The NEST Server SDK will ship by early 1997. Once shipping, developers can obtain the product through Novell's OEM sales force; training and support programs will be available through the DeveloperNet™ Subscription Program. Pricing information and details on royalty programs will be announced later.

Founded in 1983, Novell (NASDAQ: NOVL) is the world's leading provider of network software. The company offers a wide range of network solutions for distributed network, Internet, intranet and small-business markets. Novell education and technical support programs are the most comprehensive in the network computing industry. Information about Novell's complete range of products and services can be accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.novell.com.

Novell and NetWare are registered trademarks and DeveloperNet, IntranetWare, NDS, NEST, NEST Autoroute, NetWare Loadable Module, NLM and Novell Directory Services are trademarks of Novell, Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Press Contacts:
Scott Raban
Novell, Inc.
(801) 222-5365
Internet: sraban@novell.com

Amy Rasbach
Cunningham Communication, Inc.
(408) 764-0759
Internet: amy@ccipr.com