Linux is preparing to steal Windows 2000 thunder now the release dates for the next versions of the two operating systems will coincide next February.

Last week it became apparent that, following the announcement of a code freeze on the 2.4 Linux kernel version, its release would go head to head with Microsoft's 17 February launch of Windows 2000.

A panel headed by Linux founder Linus Torvalds agrees the Linux kernel, or machine level code. It has to be frozen so that the commercial distributors of the operating system, such as Suse and Red Hat, can develop from it.

Peter Lemon, analyst at IDC said: "I'm sure Linux is going to do whatever it can to steal Windows 2000 thunder. That's the fun part."

Colin Tenwick, vice president and general manager European operations for Red Hat, confirmed that the kernel would be released formally to the Linux community the same time as Windows 2000.

"It will draw a new line, saying the overall kernel has got to this position. The bar is always being raised. Commercial versions of the new operating system can be available every four to six months," he said.

He added, "It also gives an important roadmap to customers and investors."