Novell snaps up Linux company Ximian

Networking software maker Novell on Monday boosted its Linux portfolio with the acquisition of Linux software maker Ximian for an undisclosed sum.

The purchase of Ximian's desktop Linux software will complement Novell's efforts to sell tools for managing networks of Linux servers, the company said. Novell plans to create a business unit called Novell Ximian Services. Executives from the two companies said the union will help drive adoption of the Linux operating system in corporations. "We're extremely excited to join with Novell to pursue a shared vision of leadership in a full range of integrated Linux desktop and server software for the enterprise," Nat Friedman, Ximian co-founder and senior vice president, said in a statement.

Novell pledged to continue fostering two high-profile open-source efforts under the auspices of Boston-based Ximian, including the Gnome project for creating a Linux desktop and the Mono project, which will allow companies to run Microsoft .Net applications on Linux. Novell, which has seen sales of its flagship NetWare operating system stall over the past several years, has pushed into Linux in an effort to cash in on corporate interest in the open-source operating system.

The company has developed a series of administration and security tools for managing Linux networks. In about 18 months, it plans to offer on Linux the same networking services it offers with NetWare, including directory software for authenticating a person's identity, according to the company.

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