Sun buys Tarantella

Sun Microsystems is to acquire software developer Tarantella for $25 million.

The Santa Cruz, CA-based Tarantella has developed what it calls its ‘Secure Global Desktop’ family of software products, which enable organizations to access and manage information, data, and applications across virtually all devices, networks, and platforms including Solaris OS, Windows, AS400 and Linux.

What is more, the Secure Global Desktop system enables applications to be displayed using native protocols without the need for specialized software - a Web browser and Java technology is all that's necessary on the client device or application server.

More importantly, the software will enable a user to present a variety of applications on Sun Microsystems’ Sun Ray thin clients - including those written for Microsoft Windows.

The deal is still subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and the approval of Tarantella's shareholders. It is expected to be completed in the first quarter of Sun's fiscal year 2006.