Virtual TCP Lite -- For many Windows 3.x users without SLIP/PPP access, getting onto the Internet can be a difficult process. Thankfully, several apps have been released to simplify the task for users with access to a host computer already on the 'net. SLIP/PPP emulators like TIA and SLiRP are one method of getting up and running on the Internet, but these clients sometimes sacrifice compatibility with winsock apps and also require a TCP/IP stack on the local computer. Another type of app for this task is a TCP/IP proxy, which redirects the network operations to the proxy running on the UNIX host. The disadvantage to this type of software is that redirector software must be run on the remote computer. Thankfully, most users will be able to make use of either type without too many hassles. For the latter method, Virtual TCP Lite is one of the easiest TCP/IP proxy clients to use, and is, at the same time, one of the strongest in terms of features and compatibility with other apps. Prospective users will first need to download the client software for their local computer and also download the redirector software for the host computer. Virtual TCP Lite has software available for host computers running most any flavor of UNIX (including Linux). Once you get up and running with the software, connecting to the 'net, usually a relatively complicated process, is greatly simplified for the user with Virtual TCP Lite's preconfigured scripts and login options. There is also a user-configurable toolbar for quick access to your favorite winsock apps. Speaking of winsock apps, Virtual TCP Lite supports nearly all 16-bit clients, with the exception of WinTalk and Ping. With versions 1.3 and later, Virtual TCP Lite also supports nearly all 32-bit clients and runs on Windows 95 platforms as well as Windows 3.x systems. Overall, Virtual TCP is a must-have app for Prospective Internet users without access to SLIP/PPP. Pros: Easy access to the 'net, a must have for non-SLIP/PPP users, integrated toolbar Cons: Lacks compatibility with WinTalk, Ping, and a few other winsock applications New: Windows 95 support, SNAP (Simple Network Agent Protocol) Agents, script extensions Version Reviewed: 1.3r1 Beta 4a Date of Review: 4/4/96 Reviewer: Forrest Stroud apps conference Main Menu