Wyse Technology announced updates to its thin-client software based on SUSE Linux Enterprise. Aimed at improving Wyse thin-client access to “cloud” resources, the new Linux version offers improved VPN functionality, security, and real-time peripheral support, says the company.

(Click for larger view of the Wyse X50L, which runs Wyse Enhanced SLE)

The new version of Wyse Enhanced SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE) distribution includes expanded VPN support for connecting to corporate networks running on Cisco, Juniper, and Nortel equipment, says Wyse. Developed in partnership with Novell, the distribution also integrates Wyse's USB peripheral virtualization support on the desktop, which is said to enable use of “real-time” devices such as webcams and USB headsets.

New security features in Wyse Enhanced SLE are said to protect the transfer of files and software over the network, during interaction with cloud computing resources, or while being managed. The security features enable firmware updates and files to be securely transferred between thin clients, says Wyse. The enhancements are integrated with the Wyse Device Manager software, which is said to offer controlled distribution of software to all thin clients on the network.

Wyse's transition to SUSE

In November, Wyse announced its first Linux thin clients based on Wyse Enhanced SLE. At the same time it showed off its first mobile thin client to use Linux: the X50L, pictured at top. Wyse first announced plans to modify SUSE for its thin clients back in August 2007, and then formally unveiled the distro last September. Wyse has offered a “Linux V6” distribution with its thin clients since 2004, with the last major upgrade coming in 2006.

Stated Jeff McNaught, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer at Wyse, “We have taken the key benefits of our existing devices, and added new performance features and a seamless transition path to quickly meet market demand in cloud and virtualized environments.”

Stated Guy Lunardi, Director of Client Preloads at Novell. “As thin client adoption expands, we look forward to continuing our work with Wyse to provide a true enterprise Linux operating system that meets the security, stability, and flexibility requirements enterprises demand.”

Availability

The new version of Wyse Enhanced SUSE Linux Enterprise will be integrated on the company's virtual desktops in May, says Wyse. More information on Wyse Enhanced SUSE Linux Enterprise may be found here.

 
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