Canonical Ltd announced that users of Ubuntu 6.06 LTS edition (Long Term Support) can now download and deploy IBM DB2 9. The simplified deployment process and ease-of-use of Ubuntu, combined with IBM DB2 9 data server software, will enable companies to develop and deploy data servers at a lower cost.

    Everybody can now easily download and deploy IBM DB2 9 for Linux from the commercial section of the Ubuntu repository benefiting from the integration that Canonical and IBM have developed. Ubuntu 6.06 LTS is freely available, including security updates on servers, with no restrictions on usage.

Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Ubuntu, said: "Partnering with IBM enables us to combine the stability and ease-of-use of Ubuntu with IBM's leading database solution, ensuring enterprise customers get the fully supported low-cost and robust solution they demand."

DB2 9 is a interactive, vibrant data server that enables clients to improve their ability to manage all types of data, such as documents, audio and video files, images, Web pages, and digitally signed XML transactions, the project marks the culmination of a five-year IBM development project. IBM's new data server offers an industry-first seamless and simultaneous information flow of XML and relational data, regardless of format, platform or location.

    Boris Bialek, director, IBM data servers partner program, stated: "Ubuntu Linux provides an open source, easy to use operating environment that complements IBM DB2 9. Today’s announcement will allow developers to utillize enterprise class Viper data server technology to develop applications for customers who are deploying Ubuntu in their environments.”

    The commercial sponsor of Ubuntu, Canonical Ltd, is a global organisation committed to the development, distribution and support of open source software solutions and communities. World-class 24x7 commercial support for Ubuntu is disponible through Canonical's global support team and partners. Since its launch in October 2004 Ubuntu has become one of the most important Linux distributions with millions of users around the world. Ubuntu will always be free to download, free to use and free to distribute to others. With these goals in mind, Ubuntu aims to be the most widely used Linux system, and is the centre of a global open source software ecosystem.

Worldwide commercial support, for Ubuntu deployments where additional service assurances are required, is available directly from Canonical's Global Support Services team. Product support and other information, on IBM DB2 9 is available at www.ibm.com/db2/.