Technology Reference Guide

	Technology Reference Guide 4. Network Operating Systems F. MS Windows for Workgroups

What is it?
Windows for Workgroups (WFW) is an extended version of Microsoft Windows that includes peer-to-peer network functionality. It provides the ability for connected WFW workstations to share files and printers, and also provides some workgroup productivity tools, such as a scheduler, electronic mail, and network Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE). Standard DDE enables the sharing of data across applications, while network DDE extends this functionality across workstations.

What does it do?
Windows for Workgroups network routines provide the ability for a workstation to act as both a client (redirector utility) and, in 386 enhanced mode, as a server (vserver utility). In this mode it can both use shared resources, and make its own resources available to other workstations. Through a browse utility, users can see the resources available to them on the network.

From a network architecture standpoint, the redirector and vserver utilities run on top of a NetBIOS/NetBEUI transport. This transport accesses the network interface card through NDIS drivers. This protocol stack is very similar to those used by Windows NT Advanced Server, and IBM LAN Server.

How is it used?
Windows for Workgroups can be used to implement peer-to-peer networks for small workgroups. It offers the ability to share files and printers, and also provides data exchange capability between applications running on different workstations. Also included in WFW are workgroup productivity tools such as e-mail and a network scheduler.

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