WebPE application hosting centers on a Data Center comprised of hardware, software, and high-speed Internet bandwidth.

WebPE configures the data center for each customer.

Initially, WebPE installs a new database instance preloaded with the database structures, utilities, libraries, portal, entry forms, and reports.

Next, WebPE builds a Collaborative Project Portal to the application using Oracle Portal. WebPE installs this portal directly into the customer's database and customizes the user-interface in accordance with customer specifications.

Finally, WebPE creates one administrative user account and one Access Point. Customers are required to name a Technical Contact for matters involving data, computers, and communication and WebPE provides the Technical Contact with the single administrative account user name and password. The administrative user will be responsible for setting up accounts for other users, modifying the default styles provided with the portal, and managing other portal administrative and management activities.

WebPE provides ongoing maintenance services to support the operation of the data center including the following:

• Perform daily data backups;
• Provide offsite backup tape storage on a weekly schedule;
• Perform crash recovery to time of failure, if necessary;
• Monitor database performance and perform routine database optimization;
• Provide maintenance and upgrades to data center hardware and software;
• Maintain third party licenses for Oracle and Microsoft software operating the data center;
• Provide high-speed Internet connection to the data center; and
• Monitor and upgrade RAM, CPU, and bandwidth as necessary.
• Services also include implementing data security, and physical data center security.

Database security is maintained through Oracle SQL-Net. All interfaces require user name/ password authentication to access the underlying data resources. Once logged on, users have permission to view, add, change and remove records in accordance with the roles assigned to their user accounts. All data are stored behind a Microsoft proxy server firewall.

WebPE utilizes a Microsoft Windows NT operating system providing file security and user authentication for all client/server or virtual private network access to the file system. Customers may choose additional security in the form of data and password encryption utilizing Verisign's Secure Server software.

In time, additional functionality will become available that will be applied to a customer's data center. WebPE works directly with customers to customize their data center to fit their specific needs and will notify customers when new tools come on-line. For example, WebPE could install and integrate Internet-enabled groundwater modeling tools, geospatial query engines, or other technical or scientific software that adds value to the existing applications and data repository. These tools can be configured to be accessed directly from within the portal and application software.

WebPE charges for data center subscriptions using a flat monthly fee based on the configuration of the customer's data center described in the subscription agreement.