Netscape will integrate IBM's Java-based Web-to-host software, called IBM Host On-Demand, into Netscape's Communicator Professional Edition client software, IBM said Thursday.
The integration will let users access databases and other software located on corporate mainframes through their browsers, a change that unites the legacy worlds of mainframes with the new world of intranets.
Netscape Communicator is a bundle of client software which includes the Navigator Web browser, Netscape Composer HTML authoring software, Netscape Messenger email software, Netscape Collabra groupware, Netscape Conference collaboration software, Netscape Calendar, and Netscape AutoAdmin, for centralized management of client desktops.
Netscape will deliver a beta version of the integrated product in early 1997, with shipment of the final version expected in the second quarter of next year. The software will also be demonstrated at next week's Comdex trade show in Las Vegas.
As part of the agreement, IBM is licensed to include Netscape Communicator Professional Edition with various IBM hardware and software offerings, marketing them through IBM's worldwide sales and distribution channels.
