Dell joins Microsoft-Novell software axis

NOVELL SAID Dell has joined its collaboration with Microsoft on the Linux operating system.

Dell will buy SuSE Linux enterprise server chits from Microsoft and set up a marketing and services programme to "migrate" existing Linux users to SuSE Linux enterprise server.

Susan Heystee, a VP at Novell, claimed Dell's "embrace" of the Microsoft-Novell deal was a recognition of realities. She claimed the two platforms of the future are Linux and Windows.

Another Susan, Susan Hauser from Microsoft said: "Dell...is the first mover in its space to provide these benefits to its customers."

If you count SuSE, that's three Susans involved in the deal.

Rick Becker at Dell, whose name isn't Susan H, said the move "is a huge success for the industry." As the announcement has only just been made, it's a puzzle how he can declare success this early on. So it goes. µ