| Xandros releases Linux desktop management tools |
Oct. 26, 2004
Xandros has announced the general availability of its xDMS (Xandros Desktop Management Server) remote management software for Linux desktops. The new management tool is said to help enterprises deploy, configure, update, and manage up to thousands of networked Linux desktops. Xandros claims its tool, which features an "easy-to-use" interface, will significantly reduce the cost and complexities of administering networks.
The software is said to enable desktop administrators to perform sophisticated tasks with minimal training and technical expertise. Using xDMS, administrators can set up software repositories from multiple sources, manage software inventories, establish managed groups of networked PCs, create custom configurations for specific departments, take snapshots of "golden PC" configurations, perform scheduled OS installation, and updates, and monitor tasks.
The Kerr Group, known globally for its pioneering technology in the development and manufacture of child-resistant packaging systems, participated in Xandros's xDMS beta program. Kerr's network administrator, Troy Backus, said that the company is replacing its aging Windows machines with Xandros Linux desktops across 14 plants and warehouses, and using the Xandros management software. "Our beta trials of xDMS were so successful that we already used it to deploy kiosks in our cafeterias where plant workers can check the status of their 401k accounts and inquire about loans without any intervention from the HR department," Backus said. "The Xandros replacement is so seamless and compatible that most users are not even aware of the change."
Management tools for Linux systems are increasingly finding their way into the market, as demand for Linux in the enterprise increases. Over the past few months, Sun introduced integrated tools for its JDS products and Novell updated its ZENworks Linux management software (formerly Ximian Red Carpet Enterprise) which manage Linux systems. New player, Open Country, recently entered the market with management software that supports popular RPM-based Linux distributions from SuSE, Sun JDS, Red Hat, Fedora, and Mandrake, as well as legacy software from these same vendors, all running on the same network, according to the company.
For a limited time, Xandros is offering xDMS at no additional cost with the purchase of five or more licenses of its Xandros Desktop OS Business Edition at US $129.
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