Sun considers Linux partnerships

NEWS Sun Microsystems is considering striking up partnerships with mainstream Linux sellers such as Red Hat and SuSE - a move that would turn the tech giant into an ally, rather than a rival, of those companies. Sun uses its own version of the open source operating system in its computers. But Linux development, marketing and support is expensive, and faced with scant support for its version of Linux from third-party software companies, Sun instead is exploring having established Linux sellers provide the software, silicon's US sister site CNET News.com has learned. Sun is in talks with SuSE, whose Linux version is the foundation for the products from the UnitedLinux consortium, SuSE spokesman Joe Eckert confirmed. He declined to give details of the talks. Sun's plans may also include other established distributors. "I know they've been talking with the current people out there, like Red Hat," said Jason Miller, director of information technologies for biotechnology software company Incogen and a member of Sun Linux ISV (independent software vendor) Advisory Board. The shift toward outside versions of Linux would bring Sun more in line with rivals such as IBM and Hewlett-Packard, which have chosen partnerships with Red Hat and SuSE, and Dell, which has a Red Hat partnership. "In general, Sun's coming into the Linux space a little late. I don't think it would be advisable for them to reinvent too many wheels. I would see it as most efficient for them to partner up with one of these experts," said Miller. While Sun representatives declined to comment, the head of Sun's software division has said in the past that the server seller is willing to make changes to better accommodate software companies that are reluctant to extend to support yet another version of Linux. "Over time, we may look at the definition of Sun Linux and modify it to get the greatest uptake," said Jonathan Schwartz, executive vice president of Sun's software group, in a recent interview. Analysts are keen on a move away from a Sun-only version of Linux and toward partnerships. "It would be prudent for Sun to form a formal partnership with SuSE and Red Hat," said Giga Information Group analyst Stacey Quandt. Stephen Shankland writes for News.com