Solaris Vs. Open Solaris

Based around the UNIX operating system, Solaris is another option for computer users uninterested in Windows or Mac OS. Designed for the business minded, the original Solaris operating system inspired an open-source version known as OpenSolaris.

History

In 1992, Sun Microsystems released the first version of Solaris. In 1998, Sun Microsystems released OpenSolaris as an attempt to allow outside programmers free reign on the source code. Any programmers using the software could manipulate or change the source code for increased functionality. On January 27, 2010, Oracle Corporation completed their acquisition of Sun Microsystems.

Function

Solaris is designed for efficient business operations. Focused on lowering computer based business costs, the Solaris operating system safely manages servers, file integrity and increases in workload. Solaris also pairs with scalable processor architecture. Solaris works with symmetric multiprocessing systems and x86 systems as well. OpenSolaris features vary depending on the customizable coding.

Considerations

As of August 13, 2010, OpenSolaris was canceled and replaced by Solaris 11 Express. As of August 2010, the Oracle Solaris 10 is the latest version available.

References

• Oracle: Oracle Solaris Overview
• OpenSolaris: Features
• OpenSolaris: OpenSolaris Cancelled

Resources

• PC World: OpenIndiana Gives Solaris Users a Free, Open Alternative