Common open source skills come in handy for Novell
work
What is it?
Novell Open Enterprise Server is the next product release for
Netware users. The suite provides file, print and application
services in an open environment. Novell Open Enterprise Server
combines the Netware and SuSE Linux platforms in one system
Novell was once synonymous with the Netware file and print
software that dominated the local area network market from the
1980s to the mid-1990s. With the decline of non-Windows proprietary
operating systems, the company has redefined itself as a provider
of “net services” – directory, security, identity, and application
and storage management services.
Where did it originate?
In Utah, in 1983. By the early 1990s Netware had 70% of the
network operating system market, but that fell precipitously with
the introduction of Windows NT. Other products include Groupwise
collaboration software, the Zenworks (Zero Effort Networks) remote
management tools for Windows and Netware, the LDap-based
eDirectory, and Novell Identity Manager.
Novell’s technology has often knocked spots off its Microsoft
equivalents in comparative reviews. But Novell’s marketing has
sometimes been poor, and it has missed key trends – even when it
has been ahead of them.
What’s it for?
Novell Open Enterprise Server provides file, print and
application services using a mixture of proprietary and open source
technology. It enables application delivery, networking,
communication and collaboration services on either the Netware or
SuSE Linux platform.
What makes it special?
Open Enterprise Server uses many open source technologies
developers will be familiar with, including Apache, Tomcat, Mono,
JBoss, mySQL, PostgreSQL and Samba. Novell’s iManager enables
administrators to look after any combination of Linux and Netware
with a single set of tools.
Any combination of Netware and Linux servers can be clustered,
and Netware servers can failover to Linux.
Novell Open Enterprise Server provides a networking foundation
where Netware and SuSE Linux can coexist and interoperate within
the infrastructure and you can select the platform mix that best
suits your needs. Common management utilities enable the management
of both platforms using the same tools.
How difficult is it to master?
There are different levels of Novell certification, but most
involve about six exams, with associated training. However, Open
Enterprise Server makes use of existing Linux and other open source
skills.
Where is it used?
Open Enterprise Server is designed for medium-to-large
enterprises, and users include the National Health Service, the
City of Munich, ITV and De Montfort University.
What’s coming up?
Novell promises new Open Enterprise Server features, including
Novell Storage Services on Linux, and shared iFolder capabilities
between Windows and Linux clients.
Rates of pay
Netware administrators can earn upwards of £25,000, engineers’
salaries start at £28,000. CNE certification is often needed.
Training
Training is available from Novell’s training partners. Novell is
currently offering its SuSE Linux Enterprise Server 9
administration course free of charge.
www.novell.com/training/regional/emea.html