Press Release

Novell Host Integration Solution Simplifies Web-to-host Computing

Web-to-host Solution, Developed in Conjunction with IBM, Offers a Flexible, Cost-efficient Way to Access IBM Mainframe Computer and AS/400 System Data via the Internet

LAS VEGAS (NetWorld+Interop) — May 11, 1999 — Novell, Inc., the leading provider of directory-enabled networking software, today announced the Novell® Host Integration Solution, a comprehensive software offering of industry-leading products from Novell and IBM that makes it easier to conduct business over the Internet. The Novell Host Integration Solution protects customer investments in host applications and infrastructure by delivering the latest Web-to-host technologies and powerful tools for application rejuvenation in cost-effective, solutions packaging from Novell. Additionally, support for Novell Directory Services™ (NDS™) and Web server-based application deployment ensures a centrally managed solution that reduces costs and simplifies end user access. The Novell Host Integration Solution is co-developed by Novell and IBM and marketed by Novell.

Web-to-host connectivity is the ability to access data and applications stored on mainframe and midrange systems via corporate intranets, extranets or the Internet using Web technology. According to International Data Corporation (IDC), the Web-to-host connectivity market is predicted to grow to $1 billion by the year 2002 as companies increasingly need to integrate their host data with their Internet applications. It is anticipated that a wide variety of medium-sized and large organizations will be able to leverage the Novell Host Integration Solution to securely Web-enable and rejuvenate their host applications, without impacting their existing host infrastructure.

"Many Novell customers have a significant investment in data and applications on IBM mainframe computers and AS/400 systems," said John Slitz, senior vice president of marketing for Novell. "This agreement with IBM builds on our existing business

relationships, ultimately making it easier for our mutual customers to incorporate their host data in their e-business applications."

"Today's e-businesses need a comprehensive, centrally managed host access solution for employees, suppliers, business partners and customers," said Art Olbert, vice president of business development, Network Computing Software, IBM. "The Novell Host Integration Solution combines proven technology from Novell and IBM to help enterprises easily and efficiently extend information and applications via the Web."

A Complete, Integrated Solution

The Novell Host Integration Solution includes the following components, providing a complete, end-to-end solution meeting an organization's diverse host connectivity requirements:

  1. Novell NetWare® for SAA™ 4 ¾ Co-developed with IBM, NetWare for SAA is the only directory-enabled host connectivity solution for securely and reliably integrating NetWare networks, corporate intranets and Internet applications with IBM mainframe computers and AS/400 systems.
  2. Novell NetWare Host Publisher v1.1 ¾ NetWare server-based software that permits authorized users to access applications and data on IBM mainframe computers and AS/400 systems through corporate intranets, extranets or the Internet using a Web browser.
  3. IBM Personal Communications 4.3 ¾ A full-featured host communication and terminal emulation package that features 3270, 5250 and VT emulation, SNA applications support, and SNA and TCP/IP connectivity. It supports Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Host Access Beans for Java, and ActiveX.
  4. IBM Host On-Demand 3.0 ¾ a 100 percent Pure Java emulator that provides secure browser access to host data and applications. It provides IBM TN3270, TN5250 and VT 52/100/240 terminal emulation, as well as extensive Java-based customization capabilities, enabling developers to build custom e-business applications.

 

Availability and Pricing

The Novell Host Integration Solution will be available in June from Novell and Novell Channel partners worldwide. Detailed pricing will be available at that time. For more information please visit www.novell.com/products.

About IBM

IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. IBM software offers the widest range of applications, middleware and operating systems for all types of computing platforms, allowing customers to take full advantage of the new era of e-business. The fastest way to get more information about IBM software is through the IBM software home page at http://www.ibm.com/software.

About Novell

Novell, Inc. (NASDAQ:NOVL) is the world's largest network software company and the leader in directory-enabled network solutions. Novell solutions make networks more manageable and secure and reduce the total cost of ownership for organizations of every kind and size. Novell's worldwide channel, developer, education and technical support programs are the most extensive in the network computing industry.

For information on Novell's complete range of products and services, contact Novell's Customer Response Center at (888) 321-4CRC (4272), or visit Novell's Web site at www.novell.com. Press may access Novell announcements and company information on the World Wide Web at www.novell.com/pressroom.

Novell, NetWare, Novell Host Integration Solution and Novell Directory Services are registered trademarks or service marks and NDS is a trademark of Novell, Inc., in the United States and other countries. All third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Press Contacts:

Gordon Evans
Novell, Inc.
Phone: (408) 967-6371
Internet: gmevans@novell.com

Matt McOwen
Cunningham Communication, Inc.
Phone: (650) 858-3791
Internet: mmcowen@ccipr.com