Apple Readies Next Server Operating SystemApple Readies Next Server Operating System

Apple Computer said Wednesday that its next server operating system, Mac OS X Server 10.3, dubbed "Panther" like its desktop cousin, will ship on Oct. 24 with more than 150 new features.

Mac OS Server 10.3 will include a new server-administration tool that will let managers deploy and maintain the operating system's services. It will also contain Samba 3, the newest version of the open-source file- and print-sharing software for connecting to Windows clients, as well as support for scalable LDAP directories and Kerberos authentication services, Apple said. The package also provides a new mail server built using the open-source Postfix SMTP and Cyrus IMAP and POP servers, as well as a new virtual private network server that supports Mac OS X, Windows, and Unix clients. An updated edition of the open-source Apache Web server will also be included. Pricing for Panther Server 10.3 will range from $449 for a 10-client version to $999 for a version that can host an unlimited number of clients.