This solution requires a TCP/IP stack to be installed and configured on the user's machine. PPP is prefered since it can handle the dynamic assignment of IP addreses and the authentication issues inside the protocol.
Shareware programs exist for Windows, are built into OS/2 (Warp) and Windows 95, and are available for lowcost for Mac. Many other systems would also have software available of varying quality.
Those with 286s, however, will find the available software somewhat limiting. This is quite nearly a show stopper, particularly since those with limited computer experience who would most benefit from the GUI interface possible with client/server technology, are frequently also those with "hand me down" and used hardware. This issue also applies to "FirstClass"-like solutions.
Clearly, some normal login capability would have to be maintained, both for people without TCP/IP capability, for new users, and for people doing system maintenance. Much menu maintenance could be done on people's PCs at home however.