Ok, here would be my suggestion. I would first start out with an information gathering phase. Run some utililties such as network monitors and see if there is any bottlenecks or collisions occuring more then normal in the network segment that the novell server is located.
Assuming that method showed nothing irregular, I would suggest scanning the computer that does the authentication for any problems, viruses, spyware, etc etc. Which could be the source of the problem.
Also, could you fill me in as to what kind of network media you're using, and physical layout of the network(assuming that information is not cofindential). One more thing, Have you installed any new software on the server before the problems occured?
Hope you figure this out, and fill me in as to the problem and solution if you figure it out.
"He who breaks something to find out what it is, has left the path of wisdom."
Gandalf the Grey
