The Aries Server Appliance is designed for easy-to-use resource-sharing and Internet access for workgroups of up to 25 users. Built with the reliability and simplicity of a consumer appliance, the Aries required no maintenance from the user. It is plug-and-play simple and provides the fastest way to connect a small network to the Internet. Just plug in a few cables, enter your Internet settings on the LCD panel and you have full Internet access for the whole office in minutes.

Unlike earlier generation of servers, which are complicated and requires a specialist to understand and manage, the Aries has a graphical LCD panel and speaker to communicate with the user. It lets you know what it is doing, every step of the way.The revolutionary compact design also packs a full complement of interfaces, expansion slots, and a hard drive into a lightweight package smaller than a toaster.

During operation, it is completely noisefree and generates little heat. It can be operated conveniently on desktops, bookshelf, or inside a cabinet

The Aries is compatible with PC operating systems like Windows for Workgroup, Windows 95/98/NT/2000, Apple MacOS and most digital devices that support Ethernet or Infra-Red port. It is the perfect tool for small businesses, home offices, schools, laboratories, mobile professionals and anyone who desires a hassle-free, zero administration network with all the functionalities of a large corporation.

Configuration and Usability

The Aries is designed to be usable out of the box. Most configuration options have been preset to work for most environments. However, if customization is required, it may be configured using the LCD panel and configuration buttons and the web browser interface.

Pressing the menu key puts the front panel into setup mode and you can change the network address, clear print queue or run diagnostic tests.

For advanced configuration, use the point and click web interface by pointing your favorite browser to the Aries' network address. The online documentation and help files are always available if you need assistance.

Internet Access

The Aries supports a wide range of Internet access technologies including dial-up, ISDN, leased circuits, xDSL and cable modem. It manages Internet traffic according to policies that will optimize your connection:

• Configure how often the Aries is allowed to dial out to the ISP daily thus reducing online usage. It can be set to dial-on-demand or on a schedule.
• Cache pages to speed up connection to popular sites to reduce connection time and filter certain sites.
• VPN provides a secure way for users to access the network from a remote location.

Email and Web Features

With Aries as your private Internet server, you can customize your e-mail and web services.

A single dial-up account provides e-mail service for an unlimited number of mailboxes, and you can set up a schedule for automatic retrieval of e-mail from the ISP.

The Aries also provides a web publishing engine for Intranet and Internet. Its scripting capability lets you handle keyword searching, usage monitoring and e-mail routing.

Support for 802.11b wireless networks is built-in - just pop in a compatible card and aries instantly becomes a wireless hub for your office.