09.06.07
Novell is Microsoft’s Favourite GPL Proxy
Letting ‘puppets’ do all the heavy lifting and dirty work
A “puppet strategy” and a “proxy strategy” are closely related and the terms are almost interchangeable. We have already learned how Microsoft used Novell and others to empower the OOXML push.
A few weeks ago, Microsoft used Citrix as a proxy in its plot to steal XenSource from the Linux community and then subvert Xen’s roadmap. It’s a nice little strategy and Microsoft deserves credit for mastering the art of buying out its competition without getting the FTC’s attention. Microsoft acquires proxies and then uses them to suit its own agenda and pursuit goals. Miguel de Icaza is probably the leader of the proxy element inside Novell, but that’s not really the story which deserves attention at this moment.
Novell, as an entire company, is a tool for Microsoft to approach GNU GPL-licensed technology without getting ‘in contact’ with it. GPLv3 is a separate issue here, but here is a new writeup that aligns with the main argument.
It appears that the standard operating procedure for Microsoft will be to send open sourced partners into the GPLv3 car park.
How true and how sad. Citrix is no exception, but it’s not a Linux company. Citrix was said to have been a proxy that would ‘defend’ Microsoft from Xen’s GPL liabilities. It was an analysts who said this and it makes perfect sense.
Given the large output coming from Novell… or Microsoft… or Novell… it’s hard to tell at this stage who produces software like Moonlight… Novell must be Microsoft’s main proxy for GNU/Linux.
Highlight: Novell was the first to acknowledge that Microsoft FUD tactics had substance. Novell then used anti-Linux FUD to market itself. 
Highlight: Xandros let Microsoft make patent claims and brag about (paid-for) OOXML support. 
Highlight: Linspire's CEO not only fell into Microsoft arms, but he also assisted the company's attack on GNU/Linux. 
Highlight: Microsoft craves pseudo (proprietary) standards and gets its way using proxies and influence which it buys. 
Highlight: The invasion into the open source world is intended to leave Linux companies neglected, due to financial incentives from Microsoft. 
Analysis: Xen, an open source hypervisor, possibly fell victim to Microsoft's aggressive (and stealthy) acquisition-by-proxy strategy.