LXer: Microsoft Gets Novell Linux Code Ahead Of Open Source Community

Published at LXer:

SEC document shows that Microsoft is entitled to receive key technical documentation from the Linux distributor -- even if that documentation is not generally available to open source software developers.

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The technical agreement shows the extent to which Microsoft is counting on its close relationship with Novell to add virtualization capabilities to its forthcoming Windows Longhorn Server product in an effort to match offerings by rivals EMC and IBM.

So now we get a peek at one of Microsoft's agenda items. Getting technology like this with a threat and some money is cheaper and faster than developing it in house.

OK, if Novell is writing the code on their own, what they do with it is their business. But if they are modifying GPL code, then giving it to Microsoft is "distributing" it, and not making the same thing available to everyone is a violation of the GPL. They better be running one mighty clean development shop over at Novell.....