Looking to help customers host Web sites, complete online transactions and manage rack-mounted appliances, Intel last week announced a series of turnkey server appliances.

For customers looking for a quick and simple way to set up an e-commerce shop, the appliances come preconfigured with software and hardware specifically designed to handle that task.

For example, the NetStructure Storefront Appliances feature Intershop's e-commerce hosting software, letting network managers provide for secure transactions.

A second set of devices, the NetStructure Hosting Appliances, features integrated browser-based management and Apache's open source hosting software, and Sendmail for e-mail.

Intel is also introducing NetStructure Management Appliances designed to help network managers configure and manage servers and appliances, including Intel's NetStructure and some third-party products.

The appliances feature hardware and software based on Riversoft Technologies Ltd.'s Network Management Operating System, which has device monitoring and fault-isolation features.

Intel says the equipment is also designed to help users save money on rack space. Users typically pay between $US20 and $US37.50 per rack unit space per month.

Warren Wilson, senior analyst with Summit Strategies Inc., says users can benefit from appliances such as Intel's because they are preconfigured to perform specific tasks. For example, Intel's hosting appliances can be installed in a data center to host Web and e-mail applications without lots of fine-tuning by IT staff.

The NetStructure 1301, 1305 and 1320 Storefront Appliances will be available next month for $US7,599, $US15,699 and $US23,699, respectively.

The NetStructure 1010 and 1020 Hosting Appliances are available next month for $US2,199 and $US3,190.

The NetStructure 1400 and 1450 Management Appliances will be available in the fourth quarter for $US4,995 and $US14,995.

Intel:www.intel.com/net structure