Linuxcare launches managed services scheme

Linux service provider Linuxcare has unveiled a range of managed services, following on the heels of a similar scheme from Red Hat.

Linuxcare Managed Services include internet server optimisation, systems management, remote monitoring and software updates, plus repairs across all major distributions of Linux.

In December Red Hat rolled out the Red Hat Network, a set of web-based services aimed at helping administrators deploy and manage the open source operating system. It claims to have about 50,000 computers registered on the network.

Meanwhile, Linuxcare's services are aimed at ISPs who are seeing increased customer demand for Linux. The services are based on a monthly subscription fee dependent on the number of servers deployed.

The programme also includes access to the Linuxcare Knowledgebase and staffed support services. Arthur Tyde, Linuxcare co-founder and chief executive, said: "Managed services are the logical next step and they have been part of our plan from day one."

Last week executives at Turbolinux confirmed the systems company was in talks to acquire Linuxcare and that an announcement is expected within the next two weeks. The two companies have been locked in discussions for about a month and a letter of intent is being prepared.