Novell's ZENworks Suite 6.5, a suite of server desktop, and handheld management tools, now has Linux server support and patch management abilities. Rated very good (with excellent marks for capability and interoperability and good marks for usability, performance, manageability, scalability, and security), ZENworks Suite 6.5 competes vigorously with Aliris, LANdesk Management Suite 8, and Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003. The Linux Management module in ZENworks Suite 6.5 is a re-branded version of RedCarpet Enterprise Version 2.2, and the Patch Management component integrates PatchLink 5.0 tool, which is the probably best patch integration available. InstallShield AdminStudio is the new software packaging component. Novell's use of outside components to fill in the gaps in ZENworks Suite 6.5 is not problematic as yet, but testers say Novell may be unable to integrate any more third party tools effectively and economically. During testing, users could easily assign, view, change or grant permissions to objects, which is an excellent enhancement that allows IT managers to more flexibly assign maintenance work. Testers also could use a new method of selecting groups of machines dynamically to conduct administrative functions. Testers recommend that subject-matter experts be assigned to each area of the product (desktop, server, and handheld management tools).