IBM has mooted plans to use Linux as a replacement for Unix
back-end systems when the open source operating system
matures.
Speaking at the Software Forum conference in San Francisco, IBM
executives said there were some features in Linux that could push
it past Unix for back-end computing. While they admit Linux still
has a way to go before it can compete with the functions available
on many flavours of Unix, IBM officials said that Linux could prove
more cost effective and be a more user-friendly way to manage
servers.
"We are happy and comfortable with the idea that Linux can become
the successor not just for AIX but for all Unix operating systems,"
said Steve Mills, senior vice president and group executive of the
IBM Software Group.
IBM is looking to install Linux on everything from mainframe
servers to embedded systems controlling functions on space-age
refrigerators. The compact, stable nature of the operating system
gives it unparalleled flexibility, IBM said.
In particular, IBM is embracing Linux as a way to help
administrators with key server management tasks. For instance, if
users want to consolidate their hardware infrastructure, they can
create Linux partitions on mainframe servers, allowing them to
access various applications all from one place. Users who want to
expand server set ups into clustered environments can use Linux's
scalability.
Linux's open source roots have helped it stay centred around
standard industry protocols and make it flexible for communicating
with other operating systems and applications, IBM executives said.
This openness has pushed IBM to place Linux at the centre of its
effort to build out global technology infrastructures.
"All types of servers can run on a common Unix operating system,"
Mills said. "What is not clear is if (the OS) will be Linux. It
needs to continue to mature and become a more sophisticated
system."
While IBM officials concede that Linux might not emerge as the
operating system of the future, the company is ready to back it now
with millions of dollars and as many developers as it can find. If
these bets pay off, IBM may well send AIX packing.