What: ALICE (Advanced Linux Internet Communication Environment) is a software solution incorporating a Mail Server with Anti Virus, Anti Spam, Filtering and Web Mail modules, Web Server, Firewall, Proxy Server implementing user/time/URI based rules, IPSEC VPN Server, DNS, and DHCP Server. ALICE is also capable of advanced routing between various interfaces and networks. An SSL VPN can also be deployed on ALICE to enable remote access to secure systems. Other addons include solutions for Fax and Bulk Messaging. In short, ALICE bundles all the software one would need to enable a network to connect to the Internet while keeping the private network secure. Why: A normal installation of all the software components of ALICE would require individual deployment, setup, administration and maintenance of each of the component systems. This would need dedicated skilled personnel at each location such components are installed. Further each component would require sufficient user licenses of the OS and the software component. The total cost of all the components if deployed individually will be at least 5-6 times that of deploying a single ALICE. ALICE is an integrated software solution with all its components interoperating seamlessly. This enables integrated administration of all the components possibly even remotely. Who: Retort Software Pvt Ltd is a company promoted by a group of alumni of IIT Bombay focused on developing software to deploy complex systems for easy use by lay persons. Advantages: One Stop solution. Single Vendor interaction. Bundled with operating system so that separate licenses are not required Unlimited user license. Alice is licensed on a Per Server license and has no limitations on the number of users who are allowed to use the systems. Ease of deployment and simplified administration reducing administrative overheads. Remote Administration eliminating need for skilled manpower at remote locations. Low to nil user learning curve as users continue to use their favourite front end software. Automatic updates to apply patches to the Operating System and other server software Highly scalable. Has been tested in live setup with over 11000 users for email and proxy users.