JavaStation Network Environment

Unlike traditional workstations and PCs, network computers download all their software from a server. To run properly, these clients require a boot server, a domain name service (DNS) server, a network information service (NIS) server, a NFS server, a web server, a DHCP server, a router and a home directory for each user.

The JavaStation can be integrated into an existing network; however, the JavaStation does require a dedicated boot server.

The boot server "listens" on the network for a JavaStation booting up and supplies the JavaStation with its boot image: JavaOS and either the HotJava Browser, HotJava Views, or an alternate main application. You decide in advance which application a particular JavaStation will run.

If HotJava Views is used as the main application, the web server provides the HotJava Views applets to JavaStation clients that are running HotJava Views. You can configure the HotJava Views environment by using a tool from the Netra j software called HotJava Views Administration. (See "To Access HotJava Views Administration".)

The boot server and web server can be the same physical machine, but it is not a requirement. The JavaStation network environment also depends on the DHCP, DNS, NIS, and NFS services. NFS must be provided by the boot server; DNS and NIS can be provided by other machines in the nework. JavaStation home directories (accessed by NFS) can also reside on other machines in the network.

Once you've completed server installation and configuration, you can add clients and complete HotJava Views administration through Netra j.