NetScanTools

NetScanTools is a multifunctional 'net client that combines many typical UNIX network functions with a variety of essential 'net diagnostic tools. The 32-bit application offers seventeen major functions that range from an integrated whois client to a text URL grabber tool to an IDENT server. Although the interface appears quite cluttered at times and there are no options for resizing any of the windows, you would have a difficult time finding other apps on the 'net that offer as many useful features and functions as does NetScanTools. The first of the major functions is a name server lookup tool that translates host names to IP addresses and vice versa. One of its most useful functions, NetScanTools' chargen utility gives you an approximate speed for your connection in characters per second (with compression taken into account). Another powerful function is the NetScanner utility which lists active computers within a range of given IP addresses and can also translate these addresses into their respective host names. Integrated finger (reports information on a user after entering his or her e-mail address), ping (reports on whether another computer is currently up and running on the 'net as well as how long it takes to reach the computer), whois (queries databases for information about domain names, IP address assignments, and individual names), and traceroute (reports the number of hops, or intermediate routers, between your computer and a remote server) tools are four of the most common UNIX network functions and are also four of the best clients offered by NetScanTools. Additional functions include an IDENT server, echo utility (allows you to verify your own connectivity to the 'net), time sync feature (sets your computer's clock using universal time servers), daytime command (gets the local time of day in remote locations), quote server (obtains the 'quote of the day' from remote hosts), text URL grabber (the grabber's default option is to list the latest information on Northwest Performance Software's web site), winsock information reporter (reports on the current version of winsock that your computer is using), and three general purpose functions (socket services, socket protocols, and printing capabilities for most major functions). NetScanTools complements its set of functions with several usability features, including a listbox history for each of the major tools, an online help guide, and an efficient (although not overwhelmingly attractive) interface. Despite its many selling points, there are several areas in which NetScanTools falters. First, while an integrated suite that includes all of these tools in one package is a godsend indeed, experienced users will quickly find that many of NetScanTools' functions are bested by standalone clients. Another area that needs improvement is the NetScanTools online help, which would be much better served by a Windows-style online help system as opposed to the current text file type of guide. And finally, although the tabbed interface makes it easy to quickly switch between the functions, a less cluttered interface would make the client much more attractive. Overall, despite a few drawbacks, if you've been longing for a 'net suite that packages all of your favorite diagnostic tools and UNIX network functions, NetScanTools should be the perfect client for you. Pros: Excellent collection of 'net diagnostic and UNIX network tools, inexpensive client, easy to use Cons: Some standalone clients cost less and offer more features, online help needs improvement For the latest information on NetScanTools, check out: http://cws.internet.com/32win.html#netscan apps conference Main Menu