Xandros Introduces Business Linux Desktop

LinuxWorld is less than a week away, but Linux distributor Xandros is beating other vendors to the punch by announcing its new desktop: Xandros Desktop OS 2.5.

Building on the base of the old Corel Linux desktop distribution, Xandros Inc. is continuing to try to forge a place for itself as a leading Linux desktop vendor for the enterprise.

Unlike many popular, consumer-oriented Linux desktops, such as Linspire, Xandros Desktop OS Version 2.5 Business Edition includes enterprise interoperability features such as network authentication to Windows NT-style Primary Domain Controllers and Active Directory servers.

It also supports NT log-on scripts, SAP and Citrix thin clients, and IBM Terminal Emulators. In addition, it includes the full commercial version of StarOffice 7 with support.

This latest version also includes CodeWeavers Inc.s June release of CrossOver Office 3.0.1. This program supports the use of Microsoft Office and other business Windows programs such as Lotus Notes 6.5.1 and Microsoft Project 2000/200 on Linux.

/zimages/3/28571.gifClick herefor a review of the latest version of CrossOver Office.

Xandros claims that current Xandros Desktop OS users can perform a single-click upgrade of CrossOver Office with the operating systems Xandros Networks software patch program, but in informal eWEEK.com tests, this functionality hadnt yet been activated as of Tuesday.

All versions of the Xandros Desktop OS now include Linux kernel 2.4.24 and version 1.6 of the Mozilla communications suite.

“The Xandros Desktop OS excels in seamless network integration and cross-platform compatibility,” Frederick H. Berenstein, chairman and chief technology officer at Xandros, said in a statement.

“The enhanced CrossOver Office capabilities in version 2.5 make it easier than ever for desktop-driven businesses such as financial or insurance firms to migrate to Linux,” he said. “Xandros has transformed the Linux desktop from a visionary future to a prudent reality for corporate IT planners.”

At the LinuxWorld conference in San Francisco, Xandros also will be demonstrating xDMS, its desktop deployment and management server, and what PR representatives call “an exciting new series of enterprise server products,” which will represent Xandros first foray into Linux servers.

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