"The sale of certain intellectual property assets will not impact customers," the letter reads. "Customers will continue to be authorized to use Novell products under this intellectual property."

According to Hovesepian, Attachmate planned to retain both the Novell and SUSE brands and operate them as two separate business units. The chief executive also expected a "business as usual" scenario to continue until the merger transaction closed.

"We have no plans to change your current sales coverage or ordering practices," the letter reads. "If you have any questions or wish to discuss this matter further, please feel free to contact your local sales leadership."

Novell Australia has been contacted for comment on the effects of the merger on local customers and staff.