After several months of research and extensive testing, the Computing Infrastructure Support (CIS) Department has selected Mozilla as the new Lab standard application for Internet browser and email client. A Lab-customized version of Mozilla will be phased in as a replacement for the current standard Netscape 4.75, which is out of date and no longer supported by Netscape (but which is still supported by the Lab Help Desk). Among the various options reviewed, Mozilla offers a user interface most like Netscape 4.75, though some features are different. Rosemary Lowden, head of CIS, briefed members of the Computing and Communications Services Advisory Committee at their October meeting.

Although the selection of Mozilla was a clear choice because it works across computer platforms such as Windows, Macintosh and UNIX/Linux (cross-platform email compatibility was a primary consideration), implementing it Lab-wide will be a little more challenging.

The main issues are that CIS does not have the staff to help the entire Lab switch over quickly to the Lab-friendly version of Mozilla, and if users try to install the generic version of Mozilla, the settings are likely to cause problems with some Lab services. Additionally, users may lose some email folders and addresses if they install the generic version. Because of the anticipated level of support needed, CIS is looking to phase in Mozilla across the Lab, starting with the divisions, departments and groups with matrixed computer support staff from CIS. This will account for about 40 percent of Lab staff, and the rest will be phased in after that. CIS will be working closely with Administrative Services Department (ASD) staff to help with the phased introduction.

New computers ordered through the Lab’s Basic Ordering Agreement (see next article) are being delivered with Mozilla already installed.

CIS realizes that there is pressing demand for a new standard and is striving to balance this with the very limited funding available for hiring additional support staff and the anticipated difficulties if Lab employees decide to proceed on their own. CIS is currently preparing materials to help employees make a smoother transition to Mozilla.

Watch Computing and Communications Services News and Today at Berkeley Lab for more information on the migration to Mozilla.