Novell, SuSE Execs Detail Linux Plans

Novell Inc.’s acquisition of SuSE Linux AG had nothing to do with competing with Microsoft Corp. and everything to do with driving Linux deep into the
enterprise, Novell and SuSE officials said at a media teleconference on Tuesday morning.

Chris Stone, vice chairman of Novell, of Provo, Utah, stressed that the deal had not been done to compete with Microsoft. “If that happens, it’s a
nice benefit, but the objective here is to reduce impediments to Linux in the enterprise. This is not about competing with Microsoft, this is about
addressing any impediments that might have been holding Linux back,” he said.