Want to switch to Linux ... any IP control options?

I currently have 2 HTPC's running windows. I use a RTI XP8 to send strings over IP to them for remote commands, on the PC's themselves I am running an app called MCE controller which listens on the NIC and emulates keyboard presses. Is there any option like this for HTPC control via IP strings for Linux running XBMC or even OpenElec?

Thanks.