Sun`s 100-desktop Linux solution

Long-time advocate of the network PC, Sun Microsystems has announced an all-in-one desktop solution that will serve 100 users while eliminating much of the associated hardware costs. Using a combination of JavaCard technology, open software and an authenticating server, the Sun solution gives users full access to everyday work functions. Based on a core server, the Sun proposition includes a set of diskless client machines that use the server-hosted applications.

Underpinning the system is the Linux operating system, a free operating system that Sun is increasingly starting to favour in its lower-end applications. Software on the "virtual" desktops will include the Mozilla browser, OpenOffice, Evolution and Gnome, all open source applications.

At the heart of the system is the LX50, a general-purpose 32-bit x86 server running Linux based on the 2.4 kernel. Sun plans to roll-out the system in 2003.

IBM has joined forces with Cisco to announce plans to establish "wireless hotspots" in public areas such as airports and hotels. Using the wireless hotspots, travellers with wireless-enabled notebooks and handheld computers will be able to access their corporate network through a wireless network at business lounges and hotels around the world.

"Hotspots such as these allow the business traveller to be productive in the downtime usually associated with travel. Now travellers can use the free time while in transit to log onto their corporate network simply by checking into a business lounge," says Giovanni Venturella, IBM SA`s senior networking and connectivity specialist.

Details of local hotspots are not yet available although one can expect the major airports to be obvious starting points.

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