>From the Aug. 14 issue of InformationWeek Daily!

** IBM Adds Linux To Thin-Client Computers

IBM, already on the record saying it wants to make Linux available 
throughout its products, is outlining steps to make it happen. IBM 
will unveil its first thin-client computer with Linux available as 
a preinstalled option. Until now, users who wanted to run Linux on 
IBM thin clients faced a do-it-yourself project. Now, the 
company's N 2200 and N 2800 models will feature Linux out of the 
box. "A lot of our customers are looking for a more packaged 
solution," says Paul Boulay, NetVista program director in IBM's 
Personal Systems Group. The devices will ship with TurboLinux 6.1.

Analysts say demand for Linux on thin clients will be driven in 
part by users looking for more operating system options. "There 
are a lot of people looking for an alternative to Microsoft," says 
Technology Business Research analyst Bob Sutherland, who adds that 
Linux's relatively small footprint makes it ideal for thin 
clients.

IBM also is expected to begin offering Caldera Systems Inc.'s 
version 2.4 of Linux as a factory-installed option this week for 
some ThinkPads. Much of IBM's Linux strategy is centered on 
creating a technology environment in which Linux can thrive as a 
viable alternative to more mainstream operating systems. 

With that in mind, IBM is also unveiling support initiatives aimed 
at making the software more powerful and user friendly. IBM is 
releasing more than 100 new device-specific print drivers for 
Linux, which should make it easier for IT managers to deploy it on 
file-and-print servers. And the company says it's making some of 
the more advanced features of its Netfinity servers "Linux aware," 
such as supporting the ability to hot swap drives and peripheral 
cards.  - Paul McDougall