| HP to offer complete SUSE Linux server packages |
Feb. 14, 2006
Novell Inc. is continuing to remake the way it sells and services SLES (SUSE Linux Enterprise Server). In its latest move, the company signed a new open source bundling license agreement with Hewlett-Packard Co. to offer customers a Linux solution on multi-processor HP servers -- the Enterprise Linux 9-License Value Pack.
This offering includes integrated open source solutions, technical software, and proactive service options that are fully supported and certified on HP ProLiant servers and BladeSystem technologies. It is built around SLES 9.
The licenses are sold by server regardless of whether the servers' CPUs are single- or dual-core, physical or virtual. A single license is calculated per server rather than per image, meaning a customer can run multiple instances on virtual machines on the same physical server at no additional charge.
Licensing by CPU core or virtual operating system image has recently become a hot-button issue in business system purchasing decisions. Microsoft has decided to charge by the server as well, and it's a decision that CIOs and CFOs have happily greeted.
The new HP/Novell package is aimed at the HP BladeSystem, but the bundle is available across the entire HP ProLiant product line.
Novell is continuing to distance itself from the service business. Beginning on March 1st, Novell will no longer force users into CLAs (contract license agreements), which attached service and maintenance agreements to an operating system purchase.
Instead, customers can go to VARs (value-added resellers) and system integrators for service and support. In addition, Novell continues to sell maintenance, upgrades, service, and support on an a la carte basis.
Now, Novell is arranging for customers to buy SLES support and services from an OEM (original equipment manufacturer), HP.
HP SLES customers will have a single point of contact for hardware and operating systems: HP. Enterprise Linux 9-License Value Pack customers will also receive HP Systems Insight Manager software for integrated management, and will receive virtualization capabilities.
"The Enterprise Linux 8-License Value pack from HP and Novell is a compelling new option for customers since it marries premier hardware platforms from HP to the industry's most secure and most scalable Linux operating system, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server," said Hal Bennett, Novell's VP of Global Partners and Programs in a statement. "By delivering this combined system with very attractive pricing and a simplified license that's virtualization friendly, Novell and HP are showing their commitment to helping customers deploy Linux with peace of mind," Bennett added.
The bundle resulted from joint work in the HP BladeSystem Solution Builder program. This enables HP's partners to design and develop solutions using HP's open specifications in order to simplify and accelerate the deployment of blade infrastructures. As part of the program, HP and Novell designed this license structure and expanded the implementation to any HP ProLiant or HP BladeSystem customer.
The new package will come with two support options: Software Technical Support, which includes up to 24x7 coverage for all software-related incidents; and Proactive Essentials, which includes an account support plan, system health check, and advanced notification of upcoming support information.
HP's technical support services are available with either one- or three-year service contract options. The bundle calls for only one subscription number and one part number for all components.
The value pack is available now directly from HP and its channel partners as a standalone product or bundled with HP servers. Further details are available here.
-- Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols
Do you have comments on this story?
Talkback here
NOTE: Please post your comments regarding our articles using the above link. Be sure to use this article's title as the "Subject" in your posts. Before you create a new thread, please check to see if a discussion thread is already running on the article you plan to comment on. Thanks!
(Click here for further information)
|
|
|
7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.
4 Legal Reasons to Control Internet Access
The Internet is obviously a valuable resource for many organizations. However, many are exposed to legal liability concerns because they fail to control Internet access. Learn if you're safe in this white paper.
Rapidly Resolve J2EE Application Problems
Whether you are in the process of building J2EE applications or have J2EE applications already running in production, you must ensure that they deliver the expected ROI. Learn how in this white paper.
Load Testing 2.0 for Web 2.0
There are many unknowns in stress testing Web 2.0 applications. Find out how to test the performance of Web 2.0 in this white paper.
Build Better Games Online
For the game infrastructure providers, life is complex. Making money from games has become more complicated. Why? Find out in this white paper.
Building a Virtual Infrastructure from Servers to Storage
This white paper discusses the virtual storage solutions that reduce cost, increase storage utilization, and address the challenges of backing up and restoring Server environments.
Gaining Faster Wireless Connections with WiMAX
Welcome to what is quickly becoming the hyperconnected world where anything that would benefit from being connected to the network will be connected. Learn more in this white paper.
Is Your Desktop a Security Threat?
The new wave of sophisticated crimeware not only targets specific companies, but also targets desktops and laptops as backdoor entryways into those business’ operations and resources. Learn how to stay safe in this white paper.
Increasing SAN Reliability by 100 Percent
Storage area networks (SAN) are a strong part of storage plans. Learn how to increase your reliability and uptime by 100 percent in this case study.
|
|
|
|
|
news feed