WebProNews

Remember back in 2006 when Microsoft and Novell announced a partnership to bring Microsoft and Linux together in the workplace?

Well today, they have expanded on that partnership with Microsoft, buying an additional $100 Million in certificates for expanded support from Novell. This includes SUSE Linux Enterprise Server support and support for moving toward an enterprise-class Linux platform.

The two companies are working closely to make it easier for companies to enhance the interoperability of the two operating systems.

"The collaboration between Microsoft and Novell has been built on our desire to meet our customers' real-life IT requirements as well as give our partners greater breadth in their solution offerings," said Microsoft COO Kevin Turner.

"Some customers have told us they want to be able to run Windows Server and Linux together seamlessly, but in many cases, they need help with the transition to SUSE Linux Enterprise Server from other Linux environments," he added.

Among companies who are already running Windows Server and SUSE together are BMW, Wal-Mart, and SouthWest Airlines.

The new elements of the deal between Microsoft and Novell will take effect in November, around the two-year anniversary of the partnership's beginning.

The more Linux fans Microsoft can get on its side, the better the company will probably fare in the OS wars as it struggles with Vista discontent and Apple success.