The groups that controls Linux open source software is thinking of preventing Novell (NOVL) from using the newest versions of the Linux OS because the company has teamed with Microsoft (MSFT) to offer it along side Windows. The non-profit development organization is worried that Redmond is using its deal with Novell as a Trojan Horse to move against Linux on patent violation issues. Microsoft will protect the Novell versions of Linux from legal actions, but could go after potential IP violations in other versions. If the move were to be successful, Microsoft would have divided and conquered the open source OS world.
Novell could continue to develop its own versions of Linux. It would just cost the company money.
Linux does not want to have Microsoft pairing up with one of its major distributors, Novell. But, the Linux crowd is being a little too cute. Either its software violates Microsoft patents or not. If so, it should be treated like any other entity that misuses IP. If not, it has nothing to fear.
Depriving Novell of the newest versions of the open source software merely makes the issue of IP ownership in OS software a more immediate one.
Douglas A. McIntyre
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