Dell Computer will factory install the Red Hat Linux operating system on its PowerEdge servers and Precision WorkStations.

The announcement makes Dell the first major systems vendor to offer Web ordering of systems with Red Hat Linux already installed. Dell said the move is a response to growing customer demand worldwide for systems configured with Linux.

Dell also said it plans to offer Red Hat Linux pre-installed on Dell OptiPlex desktop PCs during the second quarter of 1999.

Customers can order products from Dell's website at http://www.dell.com .