Red Hat and Intel make managed Linux PCs

Red Hat has announced a joint programme with Intel to deliver Red Hat-branded software that supports fully-managed desktop PCs using Intel's vPro technology.

The collaboration will bring the power of hardware-assisted virtualisation to business desktop computing, said Red Hat. Benefits include reduced management costs, improved operational efficiency and reduced exposure to security threats, regardless of OS, according to RH.

IT will be able to deploy virtual appliances on vPro-equipped PCs that offer management and security, and which support third-party developed virtual appliances for added features. These could include network security, provisioning, monitoring and asset management.

Red Hat said it plans to develop, sell and support the necessary software components, including the hypervisor, the Service OS and SDK. Development is already underway, with beta software expected later this year and general release planned for 2008.

"The legacy desktop falls short in its ability to provide a secure, reliable and manageable environment," said RH CTO Brian Stevens. "Intel vPro technology combined with a Red Hat Virtual Appliance OS will allow customers to create a rock-solid foundation that can then provision, manage and secure the PC. This technology will reduce operational costs and increase operational flexibility. We are delighted to partner with Intel on this project."

"Intel and Red Hat have a long history of technology collaboration, and this project will unlock the capabilities of the advanced business PC towards improved operational efficiencies," said Intel’s system software VP Doug Fisher. "The virtual appliance capability built into the operating environment of business PCs coupled with technologies such as Intel Virtualisation Technology and Intel Active Management Technology will enable a new level of solutions from the software ecosystem."