Although the operating system is a little bulkier, developers will be able to write applications to Solaris and assume that the programs can take advantage of the underlying directory services.

CNN: Sun/Netscape Alliance brings directory ties

The company will also announce next week a 60-day free trial of the Red Hat Network, available through www.redhat.com , that will include access to directory services, outbound user notifications, an automated stream of open-source software, and access to community support forums.

CNN: Red Hat unveils new support network for users

Sources say the Solaris 8 directory will be a high-performance, general-purpose directory intended to support a range of applications and services.

CNN: Sun/Netscape Alliance brings directory ties