Novell launches Linux desktop services

Network software maker Novell continued its move into the Linux market with the release on Tuesday of its first Linux-based desktop services package.

Dubbed as Novell Nterprise Linux Services 1.0, the release centres on delivery of file, print, messaging, directory and management services on Linux, along with associated support, training and consulting services.

The package is built to run on Novell's own SuSE Linux Enterprise Server products, as well as on the Linux operating system distributed by rival Red Hat. The offering directly targets companies looking to replace Microsoft's Windows-based server software with Linux.

Among the features offered in Nterprise Linux Services 1.0 are network management tools, self-service and collaboration capabilities, directory services, file management functions, print capabilities, and Web-based messaging and calendaring applications. The package also includes a version of Novell's network resource management software based on Ximian's Red Carpet server administration tools.

Novell has jumped headlong into the growing market for Linux over the last several months, buying SuSE, the second largest distributor of the open-source operating system, in November, and Linux desktop software maker Ximian in August.

At the time of the SuSE buyout, Novell announced that it had also received a $50m investment from IBM, a major Linux backer, and the network software maker was an early combatant in SCO Group's ongoing legal battle against Linux.

Last week, Novell joined the Open Source Development Labs, one of the main groups promoting the business use of Linux and other open-source software. In addition to testing and developing the Linux kernel, the heart of the operating system, OSDL directs numerous projects aimed at creating enterprise-focused Linux and provides legal representation for Linus Torvalds, the originator of the software.

Novell CEO Jack Messman said in a statement: "The shift toward open source in the enterprise is about solving real business problems, including dramatically reducing IT costs, and Novell is out front carrying the banner directly to customers."

In related news, Novell announced a partnership with Fujitsu Siemens Computers to test and produce a customised version of Nterprise Linux Services 1.0 designed to interact with the hardware maker's Primecluster network server technology.

Matt Hines writes for CNET News.com