All European versions of a new interface for the Linux computer operating system will be produced in Dublin, Canadian software company Corel said yesterday. It plans to introduce an easy-to-use version of Linux, similar to Windows or Macintosh, by the end of the year.

In an interview with The Irish Times, Corel's chairman and chief executive, Dr Mike Cowpland, also said the company would today form part of a "computers in schools" initiative, providing free PCs and software programs for use in classrooms across the Republic.

Dr Cowpland predicted Linux would soon take over from Windows as the world's preferred operating system. Linux differs from Windows and Macintosh in that it is free and the source code is openly available. This allows all programmers around the world to test and improve the system.

Corel, which makes a suite of office programs, counts Microsoft as its main rival. Microsoft, which owns Windows, would have most to lose should Linux supplant the operating system. "You're going to see Linux dominate in five years' time," Dr Cowpland said.

Corel's graphic user interface for Linux, which will also be free, will be translated and customised for Europe at Corel's Dublin operation. Dr Cowpland said the company was already recruiting more Irish staff: "We can't get people fast enough in the Dublin office."