Novell Puts Desktop Linux to Work

Updated OS includes software applications designed for business users.

John Blau, IDG News Service

Novell will begin shipping this week a desktop version of its open source Linux operating system aimed squarely at enterprise users.

Linux Desktop 9 is built on the same code base as SuSE Linux Enterprise Server 9, a product used by a growing number of enterprises to run their back-office computers, Novell says.

The product, which will be available through channel partners, will cost $50 per system, which includes upgrades and updates for one year.

To lure companies to the new offering, Novell has bundled several products, including its own version of OpenOffice, an open-source based office application that is compatible with Microsoft's Office files.

The bundle also includes Mozilla Foundation's Firefox browser, Novell's Evolution collaboration software, which incorporates e-mail, a calendar, a contact database, and task lists into one application, and the company's ZENworks Linux Management product, which allows administrators to easily deploy, configure, and manage Linux desktops from a central location.

Gaining Support

Novell has lined up microprocessor makers Advanced Micro Devices, IBM, and Intel to support the new desktop product.

The product is not about a wholesale replacement of Windows-based systems but rather about identifying where and when an open-source desktop product can be a sensible, cost-effective alternative, Novell says.

Linux Desktop beta users have included call center operators and service counter personnel, according to Novell. The company says users of traditionally high-cost Unix-based technical workstations have also shown substantial interest.

Novell has been intensively promoting Linux as an alternative to Windows ever since the company acquired Germany's SuSE Linux last November.