Nitix
| Developer | Net Integration Technologies |
|---|---|
| OS family | Unix-like |
| Working state | Current |
| Source model | Closed source |
| Latest release | 4.4.0a / March 26, 2007 |
| Kernel type | Monolithic kernel |
| License | Proprietary |
| Official website | www.nitix.com |
Nitix (properly pronounced /nitiks/) is a retail Linux distribution, produced in Canada. The software is developed by Net Integration Technologies, Inc., which has been acquired by IBM as of January 2008 and currently operates as IBM Lotus Foundations.
Nitix, originally named Weaver was first created in September 1997 as a Linux-based server that required little to no configuration. Primarily built into pre-configured hardware platforms named Net Integrators, Nitix first became a standalone operating system capable of deployment on third-party hardware in January 2004. Programming of the earliest versions of Weaver were done primarily by Avery Pennarun and Dave Coombs, while students of the University of Waterloo.
Nitix has claimed that it is the only Linux-based OS that has autonomic features. In June 2004, IBM Press' released a new book "Autonomic Computing," which mentions Nitix:
"Nitix is one of the first companies to deliver on the promise of autonomic technology with a complete set of intelligent networking solutions for the SMB Market."
In June 2005, Nitix Virtual Server was released, which allowed for the hosting of applications on its system. The architecture for the application services on Nitix allowed for applications to run in a virtual server environment, completely separated from the controlled OS environment. The Virtual Server is an RPM based filesystem which incorporates Yellow dog Updater, Modified as an application retrieval tool. Simultaneously Net Integration Technologies began sponsoring a "Ready For Nitix" program that encouraged independent software vendors to certify applications under Nitix. Also in June 2005, Nitix began to support NS3 (Scalable Services Structure), which allows for the centralized user management across multiple servers, as well as DNS propagation.
In March 2007, NitixBlue was released as a new "flavor" of Nitix. NitixBlue supports the nearly hands-free installation of IBM Lotus Domino, touting no administrative headaches and complete automation of maintenance tasks. This is considered to be a large step for small and medium businesses, which previously did not have a realistic stepping stone towards enterprise-level functionality provided by IBM Lotus Domino.
In January 2008, IBM announced to acquire Net Integration Technologies and now functions as a separate entity under the Lotus Software Group.
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