Software Download: Netscape Communications Corporation and Software Builders International Introduce SmartDownload - A New Download Service That Simplifies Software Downloading

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, Oct 19, 1998

Netscape Communications Corporation and Software Builders International have announced SmartDownload, a software utility that gives the user control of the download process.

SmartDownload is designed to facilitate quick and seamless downloads, and includes a `resume' feature that ensures successful downloads even if a user is disconnected from the network or Internet service provider. Smart download can benefit home, small office and international customers that are subject to faulty telephone lines and disconnections.

"SmartDownload is the first utility that answers one of the most common problems faced by computer users today: interrupted downloads," said Boris Jerkunica, SBI CEO.

Software Builders International, an Atlanta-based software developer, was selected through a competitive process to develop SmartDownload with Netscape. SBI, an expert in file compression and download technology, is known in the industry for its flagship product NetZIP. David Snyder of SBI and company CEO Boris Jerkunica recently received a patent for a system and method for manipulating compressed files.

SmartDownload will be available at Netscape's Netcenter http://home.netscape.com, a leading Internet portal, by the end of October and with the shipment of Netscape Communicator 4.5 and later versions. Access to SmartDownload is made easy with Netscape Communicator Smart Browsing service, which allows users to simply the words "Smart Download" into the browser location bar that brings customers directly to the Netcenter SmartDownload site. Smart Download will also be compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer.

SBI and Netscape will also propose that the SmartDownload software format, Internet Download Profile (IDP), be adopted by Internet standards bodies. Approval of IDP as an industry standard would help encourage adoption of Smart Download among Internet software vendors around the world, thus allowing customers to download with confidence.

"We are very excited to join Netscape in developing SmartDownload, and we believe this technology will benefit all Internet users," said Jerkunica. By combining our software development expertise with Netscape Netcenter's content and services, we have created a powerful tool that will set a new standard for the consumer software download experience."

"As one of the largest distributors of software on the NET, Netscape looks forward to providing customers with greater control and information during the download process through SmartDownload," said Mike Homer, executive vice president and general manager of Netscape's Netcenter division. "Smart Download takes advantage of the award-winning content and services offered by Netcenter, including the availability of Netscape Communicator. This will help Netscape grow in the portal business while increasing distribution of its browser."

Software Builders International is a custom software developer specializing in file compression and file management technology. Its products and services allow Internet customers to seamlessly compress, download, manage and store files. SBI recently released version 6.3 of its flagship product NetZIP, a suite of Internet utilities, including NetZIP classic and NetZIP deluxe.

Additional information on Software Builders International is available on the Internet at http://www.netzip.com.

Additional information on Netscape Communications Corporation is available on the Internet at http://home.netscape.com, by sending email to info@netscape.com or by calling 650-937-2555 (corporations) or 650-937-3777 (individuals).