Novell iFolder synchronises information across the Net

Novell has introduced revolutionary "access anywhere" information management software that liberates users from having to rely on any particular device to retrieve information or files. Code-named iFolder, the software is an in-the-Net information storage space that users can access from Internet-enabled devices.

With Novell`s iFolder, users gain automatic and secure synchronisation of their files across all types of networks and on any computer or on other browser-enabled devices, providing a true one Net experience. With no need to e-mail or copy data from one machine to another, a user`s electronic bags are always packed with iFolder, while editing mistakes and menial updating tasks are eliminated.

"Novell iFolder is the simple and secure way to organise, manage and access your files, anywhere, anytime," said Novell e-business solutions manager James Thomas. "Whether you are working on your office or home PC, a disconnected notebook, or even at an Internet kiosk in an airport somewhere, your files are instantly available. If you are working offline, the work you do is updated the instant you reconnect. And when you move on to a different location and a different PC, your files are automatically updated to reflect the work you did elsewhere, with no file transfers required. And encryption keeps file synchronisations and backups secure."

Novell iFolder combines the strengths of Internet-hosted storage, hosted backups and automatic file synchronisation without the inherent weaknesses of manual synchronisation, storage-space limitations, poor security and proprietary architecture. iFolder uses Novell NDS eDirectory or any other LDAP-enabled directory for secure user authentication. iFolder will be included in Novell NetWare 6 and will be compatible with NetWare 5.1 and Windows NT/2000.

iFolder simplifies file access and management, it provides access to files and applications anywhere, on any computer, using a standard Web browser. Furthermore, it updates changes in data across multiple workstations automatically, allowing users to work while connected or disconnected, with automatic synchronisation of file changes. iFolder also enables users to access files through their familiar login procedures and folder view, regardless of device. It eliminates complex login or security procedures, Internet access is all that is needed.

Thomas says iFolder secures file access and management. "iFolder encrypts sensitive files stored on the server to protect them from unauthorised access. It automatically stores files on servers and multiple workstations to prevent data loss and also ensures that corporate data from local machines is centrally hosted and backed up."

Finally, iFolder accelerates file access and management as it takes advantage of Internet standards to make file access and management part of eBusiness strategy. It eliminates the need to perform a manual data file update to a machine before traveling and keeps bandwidth usage to a minimum by transmitting only the changes to a file, not the entire file. iFolder increases productivity because there are no longer bits of information that are out of sync; the information is the same on every workstation.