SoftArc's FirstClass Intranet Server (FCIS) finished last in our tests. Designed as a network collaboration tool with Internet Mail support, SoftArc's First Class is much more complex than the other mail servers we tested. Other problems include its user mode run level (it runs as a user application on the desktop and remains in the foreground rather than as a daemon or NT service), nonstandard nomenclature with regard to commonly known Internet terms, and a high price tag of just under $1,000 for 10 users. If your network is going to have an ever-increasing Internet presence, steer clear of FCIS and go for a more standard approach to Internet mail, such as that of Imail or N-PLEX. However, FCIS may be a better match for workgroups that are still running Windows NT 3.51 or Macintosh 7.1 and later, because it supports both of these platforms.
FCIS is not specifically designed to provide Internet mail services, but it is capable just the same. FCIS is a much better collaboration suite when used in conjunction with FirstClass Internet Client. It offers many of the same features of Service Pack for Exchange, including discussion folders/threads, scheduling and Web services. In fact, it also shares some of Exchange's problems, including a rather complicated, busy structure. On the positive side, FCIS provides powerful access control mechanisms, enabling private collaboration in discussion groups and forums.
FCIS includes some more common mail server features, including a Web interface for users to access their mail. Notable areas of concern are its proprietary directory structure and lack of integration with other user databases.
