Mumbai: Open Invention Network (OIN), a US firm funded by six companies, including IBM and Red Hat, is exploring possibilities of popularising the Linux operating system for computers in India.

The company is trying to spur innovation and protect the Linux system, which is widely seen as a slow but certain challenge to Microsoft''s proprietary Windows operating system.

Linux is a free operating system and is gaining popularity with computer makers such as Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

Currently, OIN executives are touring Indian technology centres hosting IT and intellectual property (IP) like Bangalore and Hyderabad which houses IT majors such as Wipro and Infosys and is on a patent-hunt for Linux related software which the company plans to make available to all by licensing them on a royalty-free basis.

"We have already spent several million dollars in acquiring over 100 US and foreign patents and applications... and we have ample supply of money to buy others that may exist in India and other emerging markets," Jerry Rosenthal, CEO, Open Invention Network, said at a press conference.

"Many Indian software development companies and customers have found it challenging to understand and adhere to intellectual property IP and patent rules and regulations," said Rosenthal. "Because Linux is based on openness and sharing of the software code base, it is ideally suited for Indian software developers, vendors, resellers and customers that want access to powerful IT technology without worrying about IP and patent issues," he added.

During its tour of India, Open Invention Network''s executives will meet with business leaders, government officials and intellectual property (IP) experts to discuss ways to protect Linux and ensure its availability in order to maintain the pace of IT innovation. While in New Delhi, Bangalore and Hyderabad, OIN will host a series of gatherings where industry influencers and technology leaders will discuss ways to further Linux adoption and protection in India.

Patents owned by Open Invention Network are available royalty-free to any company, institution or individual that agrees not to assert its patents against the Linux System. This enables companies to continue to make significant corporate and capital expenditure investments in Linux -- helping to fuel economic growth.

In less than a year, OIN has accumulated more than 100 strategic, worldwide patents and patent applications. These patents are available to all licensees as part of the patent commons that OIN is creating around, and in support of Linux. Through the accumulation of patents that may be used to shield the Linux environment, including users of Linux software, OIN has reduced the need for offers of protection from others.

This makes it economically attractive for companies that want to repackage, embed and use Linux to host specialised services or create complementary products. Additionally, it helps ensure the continuation of innovation that has benefited software vendors, customers, emerging markets and investors.

Open Invention Network is an intellectual property company formed to further the Linux System by acquiring patents and ensuring their availability. It promotes a positive, fertile ecosystem for Linux, which in turn drives innovation and choice in the global marketplace. Open Invention Network has considerable industry backing. It was launched in 2005, and has received investments from IBM, NEC, Novell, Philips, Red Hat and Sony