This is really a variation on an old idea -- diskless workstations -- which are computers that contain memory and a processor but no disk storage. Instead, they rely on a server to store data. Network computers take this idea one step further by also minimizing the amount of memory and processor power required by the workstation. Network computers designed to connect to the Internet are sometimes called Internet boxes, Net PCs, and Internet appliances.

One of the strongest arguments behind network computers is that they reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) -- not only because the machines themselves are less expensive than PCs, but also because network computers can be administered and updated from a central network server.

JavaStation Network Computer
Contains information on the JavaStation network computer, JavaStation software, server management software, and related products. Also includes news, white papers, customer stories, and support information.

NC news site
Contains an archive of daily news, information, and reviews of Network Computers and non-PCs.

Neoware home page
Corporate site for Neoware Systems, supplier of network computers, thin client computers and netOS software.

Network computers as the desktop choice
This Windows Magazine article, from February 1997, describes how network computers could be more popular than PCs as desktop computing devices.

The Impact of the Network Computer - white paper
Discusses the impact that the WWW, intranets, and Java have had on computing and business, and how the Network Computer will change the face of computing.

Yahoo!'s network computers page
Yahoo!'s directory of network computers.

Open Networks Today
Networking news moves at a fast pace, and Open Networks Today lets you keep up with it. Open Networks Today offers its readers the ability to control how news is presented through customizing content filters, discussions, and news feed links.

PracticallyNetworked.com
PracticallyNetworked.com provides easy-to-understand help for small-network builders. The site contains how-to information for setting up and debugging home-office and small-business networks. Users can also find extensive troubleshooting information, tips on getting applications to work through firewalls, product reviews on network hardware and software, and more.