Linux desktop

Novell ships desktop Linux for the enterprise

Novell recently announced the availability of its next-generation Linux desktop for enterprise customers: Novell Linux Desktop 9, Powered by SUSE LINUX. Backed by Novell's extensive enterprise-level support, training and consulting services, Novell Linux Desktop 9 provides an end-user desktop platform designed specifically to help businesses leverage Linux* and open source software with confidence. Novell's partner network is also prepared to assist customers in adopting Novell Linux Desktop. Built on the same enterprise-proven software as SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server 9, Novell Linux Desktop features the same first-rate security and reliability as Novell's server products.

"In recent years, the IT industry has been asking when Linux will be ready to take on the desktop," said Jack Messman, Novell chairman and CEO. "Novell is focusing its enterprise desktop efforts on Linux deployments where users can gain the most benefit. Novell Linux Desktop is not about the wholesale replacement of your Windows systems, but rather it's about identifying where and when an open source desktop can be a sensible, cost-effective alternative. In our pragmatic view, the time is now for specific desktop users to reap the benefits of open source."

While Novell Linux Desktop is an excellent general-purpose desktop platform, Novell Linux Desktop beta testers have been successfully testing the software with their transaction workers, such as call center operators and service counter personnel. Novell Linux Desktop is also particularly adept in other special-purpose roles such as information kiosks and stations for intermittent PC users. Desktop Linux has also attracted significant interest as a replacement for traditionally high-cost UNIX-based technical workstations.

Novell's entry into the desktop Linux space changes the market dynamics by introducing a long-trusted player experienced in providing the services enterprises demand. Novell has the necessary credentials to do this with its Linux software, expertise and proven innovation obtained through its acquisition of open source software leaders SUSE LINUX and Ximian. Novell is ready to meet all the computing needs of many enterprise users today.