Dell gives Linux a boost

P>In a new boost to the swelling Linux server software business, Dell Computer announced a new line of high-end PowerEdge servers that run on the Red Hat 6.1 Linux operating system. Dell is the first of the major computer vendors to offer an entire Linux-based line of computers, from desktop systems to workstations and servers.

Dell spokesman Bruce Anderson said demand for Linux servers is growing rapidly and the company has seen Linux-based system sales double since August. PowerEdge customers range from small businesses to large Internet service providers. The servers range from $5,000 to $12,000. Gateway, IBM, Compaq and Hewlett-Packard have made similar arrangements with Red Hat and other Linux distributors to help support their use of Linux.

Red Hat is the fastest growing seller of Linux software. It’s stock has soared from $18 to $225 since it was first made available in August. Competitors Andover.net of Massachusetts and Sunnyvale-based VA Linux are expected to go public in the next week.