Next-Generation Unicenter Embraces Linux

Linux users wanting advanced management tools for their environments will have a new option Friday when Computer Associates releases a new version of Unicenter TNG, The Next Generation.

Allan Andersen, vice president of enterprise management at Computer Associates International Inc., said TNG 2.4 lets companies manage homogeneous Linux networks. Previous versions required network managers to run TNG from another supported operating system, such as Windows 2000 or Unix.

"While we had agents for Linux in the past, this is the first offering to bring security management, event management, storage management, and workload management to all major Linux platforms," Andersen said.

Pricing for Unicenter TNG starts at $2,500.

Analysts said this version will help validate widespread corporate Linux adoption.

"This should be outstanding news for Linux users," said Valerie O'Connell, the Aberdeen Group's managing director of enterprise management. "Linux lacked the trappings of corporate appropriateness. Well, when Unicenter TNG can support head-to-toe operations, then you are corporate appropriate."

Other TNG 2.4 enhancements include: easier Unicenter TNG deployment for managed service providers; enhanced performance monitoring for Windows 2000; database and applications management features designed for critical online performance and availability; and improved storage area network functions, including automatic discovery of SAN devices and status monitoring.