Transarc to Extend File Platform to Linux

Seeing a rise in demand for Linux in the business world, IBM Corp.'s Transarc subsidiary is preparing to release versions of its enterprise file system software for the open-source Unix variant.

Transarc next week will announce versions of its AFS (Andrew File System) Server and AFS Client for Linux. Shipping is slated for February, according to company officials.

The Linux port promises file-sharing between Linux and Microsoft Windows as well as with other Unix operating systems, said Gail Koerner, manager of file systems product management at Transarc.

Historically popular among academic organizations, Linux has cropped up on the product wish lists of IBM's large corporate customers, according to Koerner.

"These are worldwide commercial organizations -- large electronics firms, manufacturers, telecommunications companies, government agencies, and financial companies -- a real interesting mix for us," Koerner said.

The Linux release is based on the latest version of AFS -- Version 3.5, which sports improved performance, caching, backup, and scalability, according to Koerner. IBM next week also will announce that version's availability for Microsoft Windows NT.

The initial AFS release for Linux is certified for Red Hat's version of Linux.

Pricing for AFS Server for Linux starts at $1,995, with the AFS Client for Linux starting at $99 per user. Server pricing for unlimited numbers of users is $6,495. AFS Server for Windows NT is also priced at US$1,995.

Transarc Corp., in Pittsburgh, can be reached at www.transarc.com.

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