Microsoft To Try Network Computer Gates Reverses Stand, Challenges Sun

Tue., Oct. 29, 1996

Associated Press

Microsoft Corp. hopes to get even bigger by scaling back.

The company is expected today to unveil plans for a network computer, a low-cost, basic machine intended to be linked in corporate networks. A variety of companies have or are working on such computers for consumers and businesses.

The move is an apparent strategy switch for Microsoft. Its chairman, Bill Gates, previously derided the idea that anyone would want a stripped-down box dependent on a network rather than a full-fledged PC, most of which use Microsoft’s operating software.

But the idea is catching on among businesses because network computers, or NCs, are cheaper to buy and maintain than PCs. Microsoft also is seeking to go even smaller, recently introducing a version of its Windows operating system for handheld computer devices.

Today’s announcement also is being seen as an attempt to steal some thunder from Sun Microsystems Inc., which plans to launch its JavaStation NC in New York on Tuesday. Sun is one of several companies, including Apple, IBM, Netscape and Oracle, collaborating on NC standards that don’t include Microsoft software.

In an attempt to counter Microsoft’s attempt to become the dominant Internet software company, Oracle and Netscape today announced that they had endorsed each other’s flagship products.

Oracle will include the Netscape Navigator browser with its own operating system software. Netscape, in turn, will sell Oracle enterprise and work group data bases with its server products.

Microsoft, based in Redmond, has declined to discuss details of today’s announcement. But the move appeared to be another way for Microsoft to set an industry standard and sell more of its operating systems in an additional bid to retain its software dominance.

According to published reports, Microsoft’s plan will be supported by several personal computer makers, including Compaq, Dell and Hewlett-Packard, whose products are based on Intel Corp. chips and Microsoft software.

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.

Microsoft To Try Network Computer Gates Reverses Stand, Challenges Sun

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

Tehran could withstand blockade for four months, CIA report shows, as fighting flares

Trump plans to fire FDA chief Makary, sources say

White House announces 3-day ceasefire between Russia, Ukraine