IBM adds mail to Linux servers

IBM has partnered with web messaging specialist Sendmail to create messaging software for Big Blue's Linux-based eServers.

The two companies will develop, market, distribute and support Sendmail's internet messaging platforms, which include Switch 2.1 router software and Advanced Message Server, on IBM's machines.

Advanced Message Server manages the workload between multiple departmental mail servers and provides a module for secure email access for both local and remote mail users. It can handle a range of protocols including Wap, POP email, internet messaging application protocol and Webmail.

Both companies will also integrate the Sendmail Switch routing tool with Lotus' Domino back-end infrastructure for enterprises and service providers. IBM plans to include Lotus' Sametime and Quickplace instant messaging and collaboration tools with the Linux-ready eServers.

Michael Nelson, director for internet technology and strategy at Big Blue, said: "IBM shares Sendmail's vision for combining the power of email, instant messaging and rich media. IBM's Linux-enabled platforms are ideal because they provide the reliable, flexible and scalable infrastructure needed for serious ebusiness."

IBM's xSeries (formerly Netfinity) servers running Linux and Windows NT, and the AIX-based pSeries (formerly RS/6000) will be the first servers available with the Sendmail routing and switching software. The products will be rolled out next year.

Sendmail was co-founded by Eric Allman, who in 1981 wrote the world's first open source mail code. The company's servers handle much of the web's email functions.

Mark Levitt, an analyst at researcher IDC, said: "This partnership brings together the software and hardware products and expertise needed to develop and sell solutions into high demand messaging environments."

IDC predicts that by 2005, 35 billion emails will be sent worldwide every day.