The Novell Nterprise Linux Services 1.0, which will be available on Thursday, provides Linux support for a set of services and applications that have been available with Novell's NetWare operating system. These include file and print sharing, messaging, directory services and management capabilities.

The new package supports both the SuSE Linux Enterprise Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux distribution and is part of Novell's plan for a dual-development track to support both its NetWare operating system and Linux that arose from its announcement last month of plans to acquire SuSE Linux AG.

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In November, Novell and SuSE executives discussed their new strategy for Linux in the enterprise. To read the full story, click here.

Novell, in its announcement, cited the need for more support, applications and mature products for Linux to overcome the remaining barriers to enterprise adoption of the open-source OS.

"To realize the full potential business value of Linux, customers need a reliable source for applications, tools and support services," said Sam Greenblatt, senior vice president and chief architect in the Linux technology group at partner Computer Associates International Inc., in a statement.

The Nterprise Linux Services 1.0 software consists of the following Novell applications and services: Virtual Office, for self service and collaboration; eDirectory, for directory services; Novell iFolder, for personal file management; iPrint, for print sharing; NetMail, for messaging and calendaring; iManager, for Web-based management; and Novell Resource Management, for Linux server software management.

Suggested pricing for Nterprise Linux Services 1.0 is $59 per user. It is free to customers with NetWare upgrade protection or maintenance agreements with Novell.

Novell also said that its Certified Linux Engineer program will be available worldwide in February. The program provides training for the running of Linux and Novell software and had been available beginning this month to a limited audience.