Everybody agrees that the days of the mainframe are fast coming to a close and that the future of large-scale information systems is in client/server technology. Yet, despite all the fanfare, few people really seem to have begun to grasp the full potential of this emerging technology. For most, client/server is still nothing more than PC-based information retrieval, or LANs with attached database servers. But, especially when extended into distributed and cooperative processing, client/server technology offers a degree of power, economy, flexibility, and user involvement only dreamed of a decade ago. Written by one of today's most influential pioneers in the field, this guide shows system developers how to get the most out of today's client/server technology. It gives you all the information you need clearly, concisely, and without sidetracking into the managerial issues covered in most client/server texts.

A total, nuts-and-bolts developer's guide to implementing sophisticated client/server systems

• Focuses on file servers, database servers, and advanced client/server capabilities supported by new operating systems and transaction processing systems
• Offers in-depth coverage of the latest developments in distributed and cooperative systems