GNOME 3.16 is here -- the best Linux desktop environment gets better
Linux-based operating systems are a staple in my computing life. With that said, as much as I love the kernel and associated distributions, my true love is the GNOME 3 desktop environment. While version 3 has historically been a rather polarizing desktop, its subsequent point releases have greatly improved its reputation.
Today, the desktop environment reaches version 3.16. With its new features, it is undoubtedly the best version yet.
Software vulnerabilities up 18 percent in 2014 and Microsoft isn't to blame
Errors in software, whether operating systems or applications, are usually the root cause of security issues, allowing hackers and cyber criminals a way in to systems.
In 2014, 15,435 vulnerabilities across 3,870 applications were discovered according to a new report from vulnerability intelligence specialist Secunia. That represents an 18 percent increase in vulnerabilities compared to the year before, and a 22 percent increase in the number of vulnerable products.
Fedora 22 reaches Alpha -- Linux fans, download it now!
While the world oohs and ahhs over the latest Apple hardware, the open-source community just keeps on trucking along. Rather than take out a mortgage for the new MacBook running OS X, Linux fans can take solace knowing that their favorite distros remain free and run great on less expensive hardware. In other words, the Linux community doesn't get fancy keynote addresses, but what it does get are solid products in both the kernel and associated operating systems.
My favorite Linux distro is Fedora, because it is free -- both in cost and ideology. The operating system ships without restricted or closed-source software; it is pure, modern and well-supported. Today, Fedora 22 achieves Alpha status, meaning the final version inches ever so closer. Will you give the pre-release operating system a try?
Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7.1 is here
Linux is so much more than nerdy guys tinkering in their mom's basement. While those people exist, major companies such as Google and Intel contribute to the project too. Why? Linux is essential for servers and other business cases too.
Red Hat is one of the most successful Linux-focused companies, and for good reason; their enterprise-class distro, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), is rock solid, and more importantly, its support is legendary. Today, Red Hat announces the latest version -- RHEL 7.1.
System76 unveils diminutive Broadwell-powered Meerkat Ubuntu Linux desktop
Buying a Linux-based PC usually means purchasing a Windows machine and replacing the OS with your favorite distro. While there is nothing terribly wrong with this practice, you are arguably paying for a Windows license that you will never use. In other words, the manufacturer is including the Windows fee into the overall cost. Not to mention, many Linux fans do not like Microsoft, and would prefer to not support the company. I am a Linux fan, but I like Microsoft products too.
Luckily, there are some manufacturers that make pure Linux-based computers, with one of the most popular being System76. This company manufacturers computers exclusively with Ubuntu. Today, the company teases a new small form factor PC -- reminiscent of Intel's NUC -- called Meerkat.
Ubuntu Linux 15.04 Vivid Vervet Beta 1 is here! Which flavor will you savor?
Ubuntu is one of, if not the best, Linux distributions for beginners. Why? It is easy to install and easy to learn. In other words, it is not a daunting affair like some other distros. With that said, it is a great Linux-based operating system for experts too.
As great as Ubuntu is, the Unity desktop environment isn't for everyone. Today, the first betas of Ubuntu 15.04 are made available, and Unity is nowhere to be found. As is customary lately, it is only the other desktop environments, or flavors, that get to shine for beta testers. Which flavor of Ubuntu 15.04 Vivid Vervet Beta 1 will you taste?
Tails reaches 1.3 -- the Linux distro that Edward Snowden used gets major update
If you have nothing to hide, you shouldn't care if the government spies on you, right? Wrong. No stupider words can ever be spoken. Your privacy should be very valuable to you, even if you only do squeaky-clean things. If someone was to snoop on my computer, they wouldn't find much; some family photos, a few games and other nonsense. Guess what? It is my nonsense, and I'll do whatever it takes to secure it.
If you want to cover your tracks, however, the best way is to use a CD or DVD-based operating system, as there is no hard drive access -- everything is run from the read-only medium. To be sure, you can physically remove the hard drive from your machine. A flash drive or SD Card can be used too, but they are less secure as both can be written to. Edward Snowden took this approach when he wanted to hide from the NSA. His OS of choice? The Linux-based Tails. Today, it hits version 1.3 and many security issues have been fixed.
The next Linux kernel is Linux v4.0, codename 'Hurr durr I'ma sheep'
In the spirit of democracy, Linus Torvalds recently started a poll on Google+ to decide on the version number of the next Linux kernel. Should it be Linux v3.20 or Linux v.4.0? Well, the people have spoken, and Torvalds has listened -- albeit somewhat reluctantly.
With 56 percent of the vote, v4.0 came out on top, so that's what the next version will be called. Torvalds made the revelation at the same time as announcing the availability of Linux 4.0-RC1. Oh... and it's codenamed "Hurr durr I'ma sheep".
Tumblr now classifies all torrent talk as adult content
The idea of online censorship is nothing new, particularly when it comes to content of questionable legality. Just last week it transpired that Valve was blocking talk about Kickass Torrents in Steam chat and now Tumblr is engaged in similar activity.
Rather than blocking bloggers from posting about torrents, or stopping people from reading such posts, Tumblr now classifies torrent-related content as 'adult'. This means that many people will not be able to see posts that make reference to torrents unless they change their account settings.
Demand for Linux developers on the rise
The demand for Linux developers has jumped seven percent in comparison to last year, a study has shown.
The 2014 Linux Jobs Report shows that hiring managers at tech-powered companies are focusing more attention on Linux talent, and that’s reverberating in the market, with stronger than average salary increases to those working with the OS.
Docker to host 'Open-source-a-thon' -- proceeds will be used to adopt blue whale
Every summer, I board a charter boat out of Captree State Park in New York to go fishing. Why do I do this? I love to fish and I cannot afford my own boat, so it is a great way to experience the Long Island nautical life for the afternoon (not to mention catch a tasty dinner). It is also a great way to have a technology-free day, leaving the smartphone at home and replacing it with a rod in my hand.
Almost always, however, there is some idiot who does not appreciate nature, that throws his garbage overboard into the waters below. It is depressing to see people not care about the environment. Not to mention, seeing Bud Light cans and food wrappers floating by ruins the picturesque scenery. Today, Docker announces a new 'Open-source-a-thon' where people can learn about both open source and marine life conservation. The best part? Docker will use the proceeds to adopt a blue whale! Any excess proceeds will be given to Oceanic Society to help study and protect our oceans.
Bodhi Linux 3.0.0 is here -- download the Ubuntu-based distribution now!
There are many Linux-based operating systems nowadays, making it difficult to pick one. This is a good problem to have, however, as trying new distributions can be fun. Unfortunately, many are so similar, that you can end up wasting your time.
One alternative distro may be worth the time and effort; Bodhi Linux. Since it is based on Ubuntu 14.04, there is less of a learning curve for users of Canonical's OS. What really makes it stand out, however, is the Enlightenment window manager, which is lightweight, functional and pretty.
Did you buy the Raspberry Pi 2? Here are 5 things to do first [How-to guide]
The first generation Raspberry Pi was a rousing success; its low cost and potential captured the imaginations of many. For $35, you could not only buy an inexpensive computer, but be a part of something. In other words, the Raspberry Pi community is so vast and plentiful, that ownership gains access to countless projects.
The Raspberry Pi 2 is now here, however, and it ups the ante even further. This new generation Pi is six times more powerful than the original, while retaining the same $35 price tag. Buying one is a no-brainer, but if you do purchase it, it may be confusing as to what you should do first. Don't worry, we've got your back; here are 5 things you should do.
Netrunner 15 'Prometheus' is here -- the best KDE-based Linux distro gets better
I'm a GNOME 3 man through and through, but I love KDE too. Quite frankly, you can't go wrong with either desktop environment, but if you are new to Linux, KDE may seem a bit more familiar. Why? It more resembles the traditional "Windows" user interface.
What makes Netrunner the best KDE-based Linux distribution, and one of the best distros overall, is the polish. The team behind it pays close attention to detail, making it a cohesive and positive user experience. It comes pre-loaded with plenty of software and it is drop-dead gorgeous. Today, you can download version 15, codenamed "Prometheus". The most exciting aspect? It has been redesigned and comes with KDE Plasma Desktop 5.2 -- yeah, you want this.
Cast your vote in Linus Torvalds' Linux version numbering poll
When Microsoft launched Windows 10 Technical Preview, the name came as something of a surprise; everyone had been, understandably, expecting Windows 9. Over in the world of Linux, as we know, things work a little differently.
The world of Linux-based operating systems is a fragmented one, but Linus Torvalds -- whose loins were partly responsible for giving birth to Linux -- is asking the community how version numbering should be handled moving forward. Should things be kept simple, or should version numbers just keep getting longer, and longer, and longer, and longer?
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