WFWG Servers Cannot Act as a Gateway, Router, or Bridge

• Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SUMMARY

Microsoft Windows for Workgroups (WFWG) version 3.1 does not include the functionality to join network segments, regardless of topology or operating system.

MORE INFORMATION

Windows for Workgroups includes the functionality to connect a Windows for Workgroups workstation to one or more separate network segments through separate network interface cards. It does not include the functionality to join these separate segments to each other.

Example of Connecting to Two Different Topologies

A Windows for Workgroups machine cannot be used to join multiple network segments of different types. However, you can connect a single workstation to two different networks. For example, you can use one network card to connect a Windows for Workgroups workstation to a LAN Manager Ethernet network using the NetBEUI protocol and then use a second network card to connect to a Novell network using the MSIPX and NetBEUI protocols. This workstation can communicate with (and use and share resources on) both networks, but it cannot join the two networks together.

This type of connection is sometimes referred to as internal bridging or routing. To connect networks of different topologies or operating systems, you must use the correct hardware device. For example, to connect an Ethernet network to a Token Ring network, you must use a device called a gateway (which supports this function).

Example of Connecting to Two Different Segments

You cannot use a Windows for Workgroups machine to join multiple network segments of the same type. If, for example, a workstation has two network cards installed (both of the same type, such as Ethernet), you can connect 1 to 10 workstations on one segment (Segment 1) and 20 workstations on the other (Segment 2). The 10 workstations on Segment 1 will be able to communicate with each other, as will the 20 workstations on Segment 2. The machine that is connected to both segments (through the two separate network cards) can communicate with all 30 workstations, but it does not join the segments together in a way that enables them to share and use resources on the other segment.

In other words, a Windows for Workgroups machine can connect to different segments of a network, but it cannot replace a hardware device designed to join network segments. To connect multiple network segments, a device that supports this function is required, such as a multiport repeater or Multistation Access Unit (MAU). The device is specific to the network topology and existing network.