Storm Linux 2000 Debuts

Linux vendor Stormix Technologies has announced the release of its new Debian-based Linux operating system product.

Storm Linux 2000, available through the company’s Web site as a download, will hit retail channels this month. Although no distributors have been named, Stormix has disclosed that the product carries 30-day telephone installation support and 120-day e-mail support.

The Standard Edition of the product features a graphical and text-based installation component and system tools, including modules for installing and removing software, maintaining users and groups, and setting up networks. Additionally, users can access community support by way of subscribing to Stormix’s mailing lists.

According to the company’s Web site, the goal is “to make Linux easier to use.”

A New Software Paradigm

“While we provide intelligent defaults for new users, we’ve also ensured that experienced users can do things their way,” commented Stormix founder and CEO David Talmor.

“For example, during the install, you can have your hard drive partitioned automatically, or control each step. Similarly, you can choose the KDE or GNOME, or both for your desktop.”

Storm Linux 2000 also includes Sun Microsystems, Inc.’s StarOffice 5.1a, a demo version of the Applixware Office 4.4.2 for Linux, PowerQuest’s PartitionMagic, and Vmware, Inc.’s VMware 1.1 for Linux, a virtual machine that allows the running of other operating systems from within Linux.

“We are excited to be part of the new paradigm — bringing free, easy-to-use Web-based software to consumers via the Internet,” said Marco Boerries, vice president and general manager of WebTop and application software for Sun Microsystems. “The combination of StarOffice software and Storm Linux 2000 will enable users to do more, offering customized, full-featured benefits such as multitasking and the use of system tools.”

Powered By Debian

The Storm Linux package is based on Debian, a distribution that includes 1,440 open-source software programs and is maintained by an army of international volunteer developers known as the Debian Project.

Last month, at the Linux Business Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, Corel Corp. officially announced its own Debian-based distribution of Linux. Aiming to move the open-source OS into the desktop market, Corel will also be releasing its office suite for Linux in early 2000.

Just last October, VA Linux Systems joined O’Reilly Associates and SGI, Inc. to distribute Debian GNU/Linux, the famous “non-commercial” Linux bundle, directly to consumers. Proceeds from sales of the boxed CD and book package will go to the non-profit Software in the Public Interest.

“The initial response we have received for the Debian GNU/Linux package demonstrates widespread appreciation for the high quality and exceptional Internet functionality of Debian GNU/Linux,” said Brian Biles, vice president of marketing for VA Linux Systems.

Founded in February of 1999, Vancouver, Canada-based Stormix Technologies, Inc. is a software development firm that focuses on Linux solutions.

The E-Commerce Revolution Takes Shape

In other Linux news, Oriole Systems announced this week that it is in the final stages of development for E-Mart Design SW, a turnkey e-business software package. The product, which will ship in the first quarter of 2000, is designed for use with the MAGIC Software eMerchant and the IBM Net.commerce e-commerce packages.

“The software package will first perform e-business functions and eventually allow for all business functions in an enterprise to work together,” said a company statement.

According to Oriole.com CEO Frank Stama, “Oriole can now provide unique and hard-to-get products on the Web and is poised to be a key e-business software supplier to medium to large companies. The growth and evolution is well timed as Y2K fears subside and the e-commerce revolution takes shape.”