As Microsoft’s saber-rattling patent infringement claims continue to resound throughout the open source world, Linux distributor Mandriva is the latest player to stand up to Microsoft and draw a line in the sand. Last fall, Microsoft and Novell signed a multi-faceted patent-protection agreement, which was later followed by similar agreements with Linux-focused firms Xandros and Linspire. Meanwhile, Red Hat has consistently said it won’t make a deal with Microsoft over nebulous patent infringement claims, as has Canonical, which provides the Ubuntu distribution.

Mandriva CEO: We Will Not ‘Pay Protection Money’