This volume presents the latest research worldwide on distributed computing platforms. Topics include experiences with distributed applications and standardized platforms (DCE, CORBA, ODP, ONCH, ANSAware); distributed platforms in advanced development and research projects; and network services. Topics covered include: experiences with distributed applications and standardized platforms (DCE, CORBA, ODP, ONCH, ANSAware and others); distributed platforms in advanced development and research projects; network services (directory, security, file management, etc.); distributed application management; objects in distributed environments; trading concepts and open markets of distributed services; quality of service in distributed applications; and applications of mobile communication systems. This book should be of interest to computer scientists, end users of client/server systems, and engineers.