What does it do?
NTAS organizes network users and resources into domains, which are managed by serves called domain controllers. Users are granted access to resources through their user-profiles, which are maintained by the domain controllers. Like the other network operating systems, NTAS provides for directory and file rights, that can be granted to users or groups of users. NTAS also provides typical network printing services through print queues.

Domains can establish a link with another domain called a trusted relationship, that provides some access between domains, but fundamentally, user access is granted on a per-domain basis. This restriction is eased somewhat by the ability to create global groups, which allow users in one domain to access resources in other domains. One disadvantage of the domain concept is that it is very difficult to re-define domains, and changing domain names or adding servers may require rebuilding the network.

Version 3.5 Notes: Since this section was originally written, Windows NT Server Version 3.5 has been released, and includes several enhancements. One of these is the use of NWLink, a modified version of SPX /IPX as its native protocol.

How is it used?
NTAS builds on the advantages of the Windows NT operating system. Since Windows NT provides support for Symmetrical Multi-Processing (SMP), the performance of the operating system can be multiplied by adding additional processors. NT can also be run on advanced platforms such as RISC processors, in additional to Intel-based machines. These two features combine to make NTAS an extremely powerful platform for distributed services. NTAS, like OS/2 LAN Server, can provide application services at the same time that it acts as a file server. NTAS is thus viewed as having great potential for client/server applications. NTAS can support files from DOS, OS/2, Macintosh, and UNIX clients.

Where do I get more information?
Contact your local CBV Office.