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We have long been in need of replacing our current Netscape 4.x browser.
As we have looked at upgrade vs. replacement options, the issue of upgrading the Netscape browser software requires that we also address the e-mail client software (Netscape Messenger) as well, since Netscape's browser (Navigator) and e-mail (Messenger) come bundled together in one software package called Communicator. Based on our research and discussions with faculty, staff, and students, we are migrating to two new products -- Mozilla Firefox (browser) and Mozilla Thunderbird (e-mail client). This is the underlying technology upon which Netscape 7.x is founded. The transition into Mozilla from Netscape will be very transparent. The Mozilla user interfaces are very similar to those used in the Netscape browser and e-mail client. In addition, bookmarks and other Preference settings will automatically transfer from Netscape to Mozilla.
Transitioning to Mozilla products as our new standard has the following benefits:
1. Puts best-of-breed software on Fuqua client systems
2. Is most like Netscape
3. Provides greater supportability and compliance with browser standards
4. Offers secure alternative to Internet Explorer
The plan is to:
* remove Netscape Communicator 4.x
* add Mozilla/Firefox (browser)
* add Mozilla/Thunderbird (e-mail client)
The TSC will provide full support for the following products:
* Browser (Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer)
* E-mail client (Mozilla Thunderbird)
Faculty and staff users who have already migrated to Netscape 7.x may wish to continue using this Mozilla-based software initially but may want to eventually migrate to Mozilla. Faculty using Outlook for e-mail and/or Internet Explorer will be able to have their system upgraded (remove Communicator, add Mozilla products) but may choose to continue using the Microsoft products.
As you may know, there are a number of security risks associated with using Internet Explorer (IE) 6.x. Recent warnings from the CERT organization have prompted a number of organizations to reconsider use of IE. If you are currently a regular IE user, you may want to reevaluate your default browser at this time. Please contact Stephen Galla (x1093) or Preyas Desai (x2893) if you have specific questions about these issues.
Feel free to contact our Technical Support Center at 660-7878 or tsc-help@fuqua.duke.edu with any questions or concerns about this migration plan.
Thanks.
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Technical Support Center
Fuqua School of Business
(919) 660-7878
http://it.fuqua.duke.edu
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