I have been an independent computer consultant since 1986.  I am truly a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to PCs and Local Area Networks, having done just about everything you can do with them.  Well, almost everything.  I don't do assembly language or C/C++ programming.  :-)  This is a basic listing of the things I do well; have a look and contact me if I can be of use to you.

Areas of Expertise

Local Area Networks

I have been working with Novell Netware since 1986, and with Windows NT since its initial release.  The largest LAN I've installed was 200+ systems for CNG Producing Company in New Orleans, LA.  I have designed, configured, and implemented LANs for companies ranging from small law firms to an ISP (who uses NT servers exclusively).

UNIX

I began working with UNIX in 1982, starting with XENIX on the old Radio Shack systems.  I have worked with SCO (on Intel and ALTOS systems), AT&T (3B1s and 3B2s), SunOS and Solaris, and, of course, Digital UNIX/Compaq Tru64 UNIX on DEC/Compaq AlphaServer platforms.  I teach courses in UNIX System Administration, File Systems and Storage Management, and TruCluster Configuration and Management for the Institute for Software Advancement. 

TruClusters

TruClusters are groups of 2-8 Compaq AlphaServer systems which are connected together so they function as one. TruClusters can be configured to run as parallel processors, or they can be set up so applications running on one node in the cluster "fail over" to another node in the event of the first node crashing or being shut down. TruClusters are awesome for applications like Oracle, and for 24/7/365 environments. I have extensive experience with TruCluster installation, configuration, and management. I've configured three clusters this year for clients, as well as teaching a TruCluster class once a month or so for ISA.

Linux

Have set up name servers (BIND), web servers (Apache) and mail servers (sendmail and Qmail) on Linux systems.  If you're looking to set up your company on the Internet, let's talk about Linux as an alternative to NT.  You'll love the price--less than a hundred bucks for the software, and no real difference in the amount of consulting time.

DOS/Windows

I've listed DOS here, because there are (believe it or not) still situations where there are older systems that need help.  As for Windows, I've been working with it since the days when nobody knew what it was, then suffered through Windows for Workgroups into 95/98 and NT Workstation. Now it's Windows Millenium Edition and Windows 2000 Professional. It never ends...

Application Software

Let me say, in all modesty, that there are very few applications on the market that I can't figure out, with the exception of drawing and CAD programs, because I can't draw straight stick-men to save my life.  That said, I love to work with users to develop strategies for computer use as well as to solve problems.  One very valuable benefit of my longevitiy in this business is that I actually remember a time before everyone in the world used Microsoft Office.  Not that I have anything really against Office, mind you--I've been using Word since something like version 2.

Systems Analysis and Programming

My primary language for communication with other human beings is English, as opposed to Computer-ese.  Unlike many other computer types, my degree is in History Education.  I am able to listen to what users and management want and then either design and implement the systems myself or work with programmers to get the work done in a timely manner.

More!

Oh, I could go on tooting my horn, but this is more than enough for a web page.  Feel free to contact me if my talents would be of use to you.