:: dll don't start on their own - they need a host - look in
:: task manager and
:: you will find more than one svchost.exe listed. That's the
:: OS host for
:: services which are not standalone executables.

If they have a host - why cant the embedded allow multiple clients then if
they are on the same machine? Ie multiple applications?

:: and yes classic has a master controller - it can't work any
:: other way.

Actually it can, there is a way for cooperative hosting, but it sounds like
FB doesn't use that. Which is fine - but it is possible.

:: then you have it already in the form of super server running as an
:: application instead of a service. Your app can start the SS

If it runs as an application:

1) It still needs a TCP port yes? Then I have firewall issues with users.

2) I still have to somehow detect if its started or not - and start it yes?

3) I have potential conflicts if they already have FB installed.

:: application if it's not running already and never shut it

And how can I detect if there is an FB server already running or not?