Ubuntu clears path to enterprises

Desktop and server editions of Ubuntu OS are targetted at enterprise users

Linux vendor Ubuntu has made two announcements pitching itself firmly in the direction of enterprise open-source computing.

The firm announced the availability of Ubuntu 8.04 LTS (long term support) Server Edition, and LTS Desktop Edition, pledging that both would add to its operating systems' stability, security and reliability.

Both versions are available as free downloads from the Ubuntu web site, and will be boosted with either five, or three year support from the firm and its partner Canonical. "Ubuntu 8.04 LTS Server Edition is built for business", said Jane Silber, chief operating officer at Canonical, "LTS Desktop Edition is a very significant release as it will take Ubuntu squarely into the business environment."

The Ubuntu Desktop Edition has support from a number of commercial vendors, all of whom have pledged to distribute onto the platform. These include Adobe, Google, Real Networks and Skype.

Support at the desktop level only lasts three years, and downloaders are advised that a new version, 8.10 will be released in October this year.