IBM launches worldwide service and support to Netfinity running Linux

 Somers 27 Jul 99 IBM announced worldwide support and expanded offerings for customers running Linux, including support at no extra charge during the 90-day startup period, for all major versions of Linux running on Netfinity servers.

Startup support--direct telephone and email help center support 7x24--is now available worldwide in over 164 countries for Caldera ) and Red Hat versions of Linux on Netfinity models. This support program is designed to speed installation of both hardware and system software. IBM help centers for Linux support connect to a global knowledge-sharing database of frequently asked questions and solutions.

"Some of our largest customers are considering Linux to manage their business applications," said Mike Riegel, IBM Global Executive for e-business & Linux. "Customers come to us looking for bullet-proof systems and support. We're giving the customer the added support needed during the most critical phase of deployment and providing them with technology capable of managing mission-critical applications."

"Our in-store listening stations cannot be down when a customer wants a song on-demand," explains Brad Barrish, Director of Special Projects at Wherehouse Entertainment, Inc. "Backed by strong IBM service and support, we've been running Linux on Netfinity servers to deliver the songs without fail."

Worldwide service and support for Linux on Netfinity servers is a critical step in IBM's overall strategy for delivering comprehensive Linux solutions. Last week at Solutions '99 in Las Vegas, IBM announced a full education curriculum for Linux users, including both classroom and Web-based courses available through IBM Global Services. AS/400 server interoperability options with Linux and availability of Yellow Dog Linux Champion Server 1.1 from Terra Soft Solutions, Inc. running on RS/6000 servers were also announced last week. Enabling Linux applications, enhancing system interoperability, along with education, service and support, and strong customer successes are at the foundation of IBM's worldwide Linux campaign.

"Today's announcement confirms that a free operating system is being adopted by companies around the world. IBM instills confidence that this new technology is a safe choice," said Timothy Ney, Managing Officer, Free Software Foundation.

 

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