IBM and Sun Microsystems Unveil JavaOS for Business Software

IBM and Sun Microsystems have made JavaOS for Business software available for immediate use, providing a cost-effective means for companies to centrally manage business applications using Java technologies in network computing environments. This new product enables companies to store and manage applications on a centralized server, making it easier to add or remove client computers from the network without local system administration. The software is designed to give companies greater flexibility in implementing server-managed solutions and provides significant advantages over personal computer operating systems on networks due to its centralized management capabilities.

Key Takeaways:

• JavaOS for Business software is designed for central management of business applications using Java technologies in network computing environments.
• The software allows companies to store and manage applications on a centralized server, making it easier to add or remove client computers from the network.
• JavaOS for Business software provides significant advantages over personal computer operating systems on networks due to its centralized management capabilities.
• Companies can reduce system administration costs and take advantage of the capability to easily add or remove client computers from the network in minutes.
• JavaOS for Business software is an open system based on industry standards, giving companies greater flexibility in implementing server-managed solutions.
• The software is ideal for companies looking to leverage leading business applications written for the Java platform.
• Businesses can choose from more than 1,200 commercial applications available today.
• JavaOS for Business software has garnered growing industry support with endorsements from industry leaders including Applix; BEA Systems; Cloudscape; Computer Associates; Informix Software; Lotus Development; Nemasoft; Netscape Communications; Oracle; SAS Institute; Sybase; and Tivoli.
• The software's new features include simplified systems management, remote administration of thin-client systems, improved systems efficiency, and complete support programs for independent software and hardware vendors (ISVs and IHVs).
• JavaOS for Business software can be ported to different microprocessor platforms, and device drivers can be written platform-independently using the Java application environment.
• The software supports JDK 1.1.4, NT, and Solaris servers, and has international language support.

Statistics:

• Over 1,200 commercial applications available for use with JavaOS for Business software.
• IBM and Sun Microsystems expect to begin offering JavaOS for Business on their respective network computers in early 1999.
• IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate.

Sources:

• IBM press release (no date)
• Sun Microsystems press release (no date)
• Tim Sloane, technology analyst at Aberdeen Group, as cited in IBM and Sun Microsystems press releases (no date)
• Various industry leaders (no date)