Esker and Syntax announce worldwide co-marketing agreement aimed at TAS-based network users; Syntax to bundle new Esker product with latest version of TAS

Business Wire, April 28, 1997

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 28, 1997--Esker, a leading provider of middleware solutions for heterogeneous client/server environments, together with Syntax, a prominent supplier of superior network operating system and integration software, today announced a worldwide marketing agreement.

Under this agreement, Esker's new TunTAS emulation software will be bundled with all versions of Syntax's TotalNET Advanced Server (TAS) v.5.0. For the first time, Esker's award winning emulation software and the acclaimed performance of Syntax's TAS 5.0 integration software will be available in one convenient package.

"The inclusion of TunTAS with TAS 5.0 further strengthens our Transparent PC to UNIX Connectivity message," said Jack Smith, executive vice president of marketing and business development at Syntax. "Esker is a proven leader in emulation and this combined offering will greatly satisfy our customers' needs."

A 10-user license of Esker's TunTAS product will be bundled in the Syntax TAS 5.0 product release. TunTAS will also be available in products from Syntax's OEM partners such as IBM, Sun and SGI. While TunTAS will be co-marketed to the installed TAS customer base by Esker, Syntax and their partners, upgrades and additions will be available from Esker.

"Obviously, we're very excited about this agreement with Syntax," said Joy Weiss, CEO of Esker Inc. "This new channel will allow Esker to market the TunTAS product directly to Syntax's installed base of one million users."

About TunTAS

TunTAS, Esker's latest terminal emulation software, is a shared resource on the TotalNET Advanced Server. While historically being located on the client, TunTAS introduces a new concept in emulation software, that of terminal emulation on the server. TunTAS works with all TAS Windows clients (NT, 95, and 3.x), and all TAS UNIX clients (SCI IRIX, Sun Solaris and IBM-AIX). Its architecture is based on Esker's powerful Tun EMUL core engine. Integration with TAS has been tested and assured by Syntax.

About TAS

TAS is network operating software that integrates with popular UNIX operating systems, enabling these computers to become powerful and scalable network file, print and application servers. TAS is server-centric, which means it installs directly onto the server. No changes are necessary to client computers to be productive instantly.

Users of Windows (3.x, 95 and NT), NetWare, OS/2, Macintosh and UNIX desktops can all access the same information residing on the TAS-enabled server using conventions native to each desktop operating system. This greatly reduces network administration costs by enabling the same number of people to manage a broader environment.

About Esker

Esker is a leading provider of middleware solutions for heterogeneous client/server environments. Esker's middleware product line includes terminal emulation software, database access and networking solutions.

Esker's operations span North America, Europe and Asia. U.S. Corporate headquarters are located at 350 Sansome Street, Suite 210, San Francisco, California, 94104. Telephone: 415/675-7777. Facsimile: 415/675-7775. Internet: info@esker.com. Web site: http://www.esker.com .

About Syntax

Syntax is recognized within the UNIX community as a leader in the design and development of advanced server software solutions. Syntax provides a complete line of advanced server solutions designed to enhance information system productivity, including integration software, electronic mail and administration applications.

Major corporations and government organizations utilize Syntax software solutions to provide seamless access to enterprise-wide information resources. Syntax Inc., 840 S. 333rd St., Federal Way, WA 98003 Phone: 206/838-2626 Fax: 206/838-9836 WWW: http://www.syntax.com . -0-

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CONTACT: Sterling Communications Inc.

Jay Nichols, 408/441-4100

jnichols@sterlingpr.com