Novell Open Enterprise Server 2 Reduces Cost with End User Management for Mixed IT Environments

Integration between Novell eDirectory and Microsoft Active Directory simplifies end user authentication and administration

Novell today announced the availability of Novell® Open Enterprise Server 2 Service Pack 1 (SP1) with Domain Services for Windows*, a feature that enables seamless integration with Microsoft* Active Directory*. For the first time, customers can use Novell Open Enterprise Server to manage users and group policies through the Microsoft Management Console, thus simplifying administration, reducing costs, and leveraging their existing investment in Novell technology.

“Microsoft created the Interoperability Executive Customer Council in May 2007 to engage with companies that need to address interoperability issues day in and day out,” said Joe Long, general manager in the Identity and Security Division at Microsoft. “One of the council’s focus areas is interoperability at the security and identity management layer, and we are very pleased that our partnership with Novell has achieved improved interoperability and helps deliver on the IEC’s promise to customers. With Novell Domain Services for Windows our joint customers will benefit from interoperability and cost-effective manageability in new and existing scenarios.”

Open Enterprise Server 2, built on the SUSE Linux Enterprise platform, is the most advanced offering of storage and print services available, delivering unsurpassed interoperability for Windows, Linux*, Macintosh*, and NetWare® environments. In addition to the innovative technologies already available, such as Dynamic Storage Technology, this latest release delivers new features and functionality, including:

* Enhanced Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) and Common Internet File System (CIFS) support for enterprise-class native network connectivity for Mac OS X, Linux and Windows desktops.
* Improved upgrade utilities for easy deployment and management of Open Enterprise Server 2.
* Updated file synchronizing and accessibility tool, Novell iFolder® 3.7, for group sharing capabilities and enhanced collaboration in distributed enterprises on Windows, Macintosh, and Linux clients.

“Novell Open Enterprise Server 2 is the only solution on the market that enables businesses to capitalize on Linux and effectively manage large-scale deployments of their workgroup services,” said Kent Erickson, senior vice president and general manager of Novell Workgroup Solutions. “With this release customers are able to get the most out of their existing IT infrastructure investments while continuing to lower costs and reduce administration time.”
Pricing and Availability

Novell Open Enterprise Server 2 SP1 is available now as a stand-alone product and will be available as part of the Novell Open Workgroup Suite within 30 days. Product pricing and additional information can be found at www.novell.com/oes.