[VAX83C.FINGER]AAAREADME.TXT


Program name: VAX/VMS Local and Remote Finger Program
		(replaces V-SP-14)

Author: Dr. Richard Garland, Columbia University Chemistry Department

Languages: VAX-11 Fortran, Macro

Prerequisite: VAX/VMS V3.0 or higher.  DECnet-VAX optional.


The program serves 3 main functions:

	o Identifies users of the system, where they are, what program,
	  etc.  For this function it serves as a personalized SHOW SYSTEM.

	o Finds a specific user, gives the above information if s/he is
	  logged on, and in addition gives information about his/her mail
	  and and an optional information file s/he may supply. (Plan file)

	o Serves as an in-bound and out-bound DECnet server.  Remote
	  users can finger the local system as above and local users can
	  finger remote systems that support the function.  As part of
	  the network "finger protocol"  it performs explicit route-through.
	  This is valuable in an internet situation such as going from
	  DECnet to ARPAnet etc.  This program can communicate with DEC-20's
	  and other VAXes running the program over DECnet, and through 
	  DECnet/ARPAnet gateways to ARPAnet hosts.

In a network situation where users are spread over many nodes, and in which
there is large mail traffic, it can be an invaluable tool in finding people,
ascertaining if they got your mail etc.