Novell To Ship SuSE Linux 10 Next Month

SuSE Linux 10.0 is also the first distribution from Novell since the company launched its openSuSE project, an attempt to bring in volunteer developer input akin to what takes place on, say, Firefox development. SuSE Linux 10.0 includes code changes and bug fixes "initiated with developer input from across the worldwide Linux community," said Novell in a statement.

The SuSE 10.0 desktop features the popular Firefox browser, e-mail and instant messaging clients, security tools like spam blockers and an integrated firewall, a desktop search engine, and the OpenOffice.org 2.0 business suite, which isn't yet finalized.

Among the features Novell's touting to current Windows users is the ability to install 10.0 as either a replacement for Windows or as a second OS alongside Windows. In the latter, SuSE 10.0 works in trial style, and doesn't disturb any existing software, including Windows, on the PC.

When it lands in retail and is available for download, SuSE Linux 10.0 will be priced at $59. Currently, SuSE Linux Professional 9.3 sells for $100.