Ibm Gives Boost To Linux

Tue., May 25, 1999

Veering ever further into the mainstream, the Linux operating system will now be bundled with IBM’s best-selling database software for computer servers.

The deal with Pacific HiTech, one of many upstart companies selling juiced-up versions of the free Linux software code, was to be announced today.

As part of the agreement, IBM will provide 24-hour telephone support for customers who buy its DB2 Universal Database software along with Pacific HiTech’s TurboLinux. The companies also agreed to collaborate on making future editions of IBM server software.

For now, Linux poses only a marginal threat to the Microsoft’s Windows NT as the No. 1 software platform for the big servers that run computer networks.

But an affiliation with DB2 marks another level of legitimacy for Linux, which is a fan favorite among software developers, but relatively new to the business world.

The Linux code is best known for being a system that rarely crashes.

The basic code, continually updated in consultation with an enthusiastic community of programmers, is still free over the Internet or can be bought at stores for as little as $30. Enhanced versions such as TurboLinux can sell for about $200.

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.

Ibm Gives Boost To Linux

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

Trump honors soldiers killed in Iran war, lays wreath on Memorial Day

Pope, urging AI regulation, warns some weapons now beyond human control

Trump says Iran talks ‘proceeding nicely’ as deal appears closer