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IBM to adapt storage line to Linux

Big Blue will make its entire data-storage line work with Linux-based computers--a move that dovetails with its massive commitment to having Linux on its servers.

Stephen Shankland Former Principal Writer
Stephen Shankland worked at CNET from 1998 to 2024 and wrote about processors, digital photography, AI, quantum computing, computer science, materials science, supercomputers, drones, browsers, 3D printing, USB, and new computing technology in general. He has a soft spot in his heart for standards groups and I/O interfaces. His first big scoop was about radioactive cat poop.
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  • Shankland covered the tech industry for more than 25 years and was a science writer for five years before that. He has deep expertise in microprocessors, digital photography, computer hardware and software, internet standards, web technology, and more.
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Stephen Shankland
IBM will make its entire data-storage line work with Linux-based computers, the company said Friday.

The announcement includes not only high-end storage systems such as IBM's "Shark" disk system, but also its Ultrium tape product and its Tivoli management software.

The storage move dovetails with IBM's massive commitment to having the Linux operating system on its servers. The company plans to make sure Linux works on all four of its server product lines, including its high-end mainframes. Adding Linux support for storage means IBM can sell its own storage systems for servers running Linux.

Among the customers using IBM Shark storage systems with Linux servers are biotech company MDS Proteomics and Scandinavian telecommunications company Telia.

IBM has support partnerships with Linux sellers Red Hat, Caldera Systems, Turbolinux and SuSE.