They don't want it competing with LAN Manager.

Microsoft plans to start offering its network software, LAN Manager, through computer retailers.

As part of the reorganization, 3Com will turn over LAN Manager to the Microsoft Corporation.

LAN Manager is the network operating system software that 3Com developed with Microsoft.

He said the agreement with Microsoft to take over full responsibility for LAN Manager was key to the timing of 3Com's reorganization.

The emphasis on LAN Manager as its primary networking facility ignores the state of networking in the real world.

Novell connectivity is not provided through LAN Manager.

The upgrade price from LAN Manager or OS/2 is £470.

Upgrades from LAN Manager or OS/2 is £470.

This could make Novell's products an alternative to Microsoft's networking software, called LAN Manager.