Workfire Server Beta Announced

New caching server promises faster Web data delivery. Beta program open to other testers.

by Wayne Kawamoto [December 24, 1999]

Workfire.com recently announced its Workfire Server, which promises to reduce the time end-users spend waiting for Web pages to download. The Workfire Server, which will be initially available on the Linux platform, installs on the content server and speeds up the delivery of Internet information by comparing and contrasting data at the bit level.

The Workfire Server makes use of Workfire.com's Genetic Caching technology, which speeds up the rendering and transmission of graphics and other content. Genetic Caching takes advantage of the similarities between pictures displayed on the Internet and optimizes for the various pipes end users have to send and receive data, including 56K analog, cable, DSL, and T1 connections.

According to the company, the Workfire Server identifies the browser being used, and generates and serves content based on the format that each browser can display the fastest. It also detects the connection rate and compensates when that rate changes, due to congestion or other causes. The Workfire Server functions seamlessly with existing Web servers and content, and is scalable so that it can support an entire server farm.

Speed indeed
"Early beta testers have found that their Web sites deliver data 45 to 60 percent faster with Workfire Server," says Tom Taylor, President and Founder of Workfire.com. "We're pleased to offer additional content sites the opportulity to test this product prior to our ship date in hopes that they can realize a higher customer satisfaction rate through improved speeds."

Workfire Server is scheduled to ship in January, 2000; its price will range between $2,500 per month for sites that average up to 50,000 hits per day, and $25,000 per month for sites that average up to 5 million hits per day. Larger sites can contact Workfire.com directly for custom product information.

The packaged product will be available directly from the company as well as through value-added resellers. Beta program participants can receive favorable pricing when the product ships. Companies wishing to become beta partners should contact Workfire.com directly.

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