Novell puts Linux on a diet

Novell has taken the wraps off SuSE Linux Enterprise Thin Client, claiming that the offering can lower costs, increase data security and improve manageability.

The Thin Client includes the desktop software and a toolkit to create, deploy and maintain images for diverse thin-client environments, including call centres, factory floor workstations and other fixed-function and transactional settings.

Client images can be deployed on a variety of devices, such as re-purposed legacy PCs, new PCs or specialised thin-client devices.

The offering simplifies desktop management tasks such as application updates by maintaining applications on the server, while increasing security with the central storage of sensitive data.

Roger Levy, vice president and general manager of open platform solutions at Novell, said: "Many enterprises have deployed our solution not only as a traditional desktop, but in a customised thin-client version.

"Based on this customer feedback, we are formalising our thin-client strategy by introducing SuSE Linux Enterprise Thin Client."

Chris Ingle, consulting and research director at IDC, added: " Dedicated thin-client hardware is growing at 20 percent year on year compared with commercial desktop growth of two percent.

"Many suppliers are using or evaluating Linux, both to gain cost advantages and to build customised products to meet particular customer requirements.

"One of the main barriers to using Linux has been the availability of skills and a supported product. Novell's announcement of support should further drive Linux in this fast-growing market."