Corporate networks get new Mac integration, support

Likewise Software has announced Likewise Enterprise 5.0, an update to its network management tool, offering better support for Mac integration in large-scale network environments. The new update will streamline Mac management by integrating Mac OS X Server settings into Group Policy Objects in Microsoft's Active Directory. Likewise allows users to access Managed Preferences (typically requiring a Windows machine) from the Likewise Administrative Console on a Mac station.

The Likewise Enterprise v5.0 update will allow Macs to be integrated into Microsoft Active Directory, along with Linux and other operating systems, with similar management of each OS available through Active Directory. The software also offers IT managers migration, group policy, audit and reporting modules.

Barry Crist, CEO, Likewise Software, explains the challenges IT managers face in a multiple-OS environment: "For many companies, introducing a Mac, Linux or Unix system within their Microsoft-based environment is simply cost and time prohibitive, and they may not have the IT expertise to support the unique requirements. Likewise helps to eliminate the need to hire OS specialists by providing expanded group policies and support... all through Microsoft Active Directory."

Likewise expects Likewise Enterprise 5.0 to be available in Fall 2008. Server licenses are $250 and workstation licenses are $50, with volume discounts and service support packages available.