Recent changes to this wiki:
inclusive
diff --git a/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn index 4ac4257..eaab795 100644 --- a/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn @@ -8,8 +8,8 @@ the operating system of choice, and you excel at it. Keep up the level of quality, and keep up the spirit. I am looking forward to more contact in the future. -Thanks to everyone who has dedicated and continues to dedicate their time to -our project! +Thanks to everyone who has dedicated and (or) continues to dedicate their time +to our project! Love, -m
remove birthday humour
diff --git a/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn index a250440..4ac4257 100644 --- a/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn @@ -3,10 +3,10 @@ Dear [Debian](http://debian.org): I haven't had much of a chance to stay in touch lately, but I don't want to forget to wish you well on this 17th -birthday of yours (even if the day of birth was itself a birthday, we count -from 0!). You have set standards and you continue to do so. You are the -operating system of choice, and you excel at it. Keep up the level of quality, -and keep up the spirit. I am looking forward to more contact in the future. +birthday of yours. You have set standards and you continue to do so. You are +the operating system of choice, and you excel at it. Keep up the level of +quality, and keep up the spirit. I am looking forward to more contact in the +future. Thanks to everyone who has dedicated and continues to dedicate their time to our project!
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a250440 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.08.16:happy-birthday-debian.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ +[[!meta title="Happy birthday Debian"]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian birthday]] + +Dear [Debian](http://debian.org): I haven't had much of a chance to stay in +touch lately, but I don't want to forget to wish you well on this 17th +birthday of yours (even if the day of birth was itself a birthday, we count +from 0!). You have set standards and you continue to do so. You are the +operating system of choice, and you excel at it. Keep up the level of quality, +and keep up the spirit. I am looking forward to more contact in the future. + +Thanks to everyone who has dedicated and continues to dedicate their time to +our project! + +Love, +-m
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.06.23:linux-on-the-lenovo-ideacentre-d400-acer-easystore-340.mdwn b/blog/2010.06.23:linux-on-the-lenovo-ideacentre-d400-acer-easystore-340.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..95c2a1c --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.06.23:linux-on-the-lenovo-ideacentre-d400-acer-easystore-340.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ +[[!meta title="Linux on the Lenovo IdeaCentre D400 / Acer EasyStore 340"]] +[[!tag blog draft]] + +julia:~# lspci +00:00.0 Host bridge: Intel Corporation 82945G/GZ/P/PL Memory Controller Hub (rev 02) +00:02.0 VGA compatible controller: Intel Corporation 82945G/GZ Integrated Graphics Controller (rev 02) +00:1c.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 1 (rev 01) +00:1c.1 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 2 (rev 01) +00:1c.2 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 3 (rev 01) +00:1c.3 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 4 (rev 01) +00:1c.4 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801GR/GH/GHM (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 5 (rev 01) +00:1c.5 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801GR/GH/GHM (ICH7 Family) PCI Express Port 6 (rev 01) +00:1d.0 USB Controller: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) USB UHCI Controller #1 (rev 01) +00:1d.1 USB Controller: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) USB UHCI Controller #2 (rev 01) +00:1d.2 USB Controller: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) USB UHCI Controller #3 (rev 01) +00:1d.3 USB Controller: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) USB UHCI Controller #4 (rev 01) +00:1d.7 USB Controller: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) USB2 EHCI Controller (rev 01) +00:1e.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801 PCI Bridge (rev e1) +00:1f.0 ISA bridge: Intel Corporation 82801GB/GR (ICH7 Family) LPC Interface Bridge (rev 01) +00:1f.2 SATA controller: Intel Corporation 82801GR/GH (ICH7 Family) SATA AHCI Controller (rev 01) +00:1f.3 SMBus: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) SMBus Controller (rev 01) +09:00.0 Ethernet controller: Marvell Technology Group Ltd. 88E8071 PCI-E Gigabit Ethernet Controller (rev 16) +0a:00.0 IDE interface: Marvell Technology Group Ltd. 88SE6121 SATA II Controller (rev b2) + +1. Get image. +2. Write image to disk somehow +3. Recreate first partition with full disk size (or use parted to grow it) +4. sudo apt-get install mdadm lvm2 +5. +6. sudo pvscan +7. sudo pvresize /dev/sdb1 +8. create a swap LV +8. shift data around between
add planet-git feed
diff --git a/blog/feeds/planet-git.mdwn b/blog/feeds/planet-git.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c1a484d --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/feeds/planet-git.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,8 @@ +[[!meta title="madduck's Planet Git posts"]] + +The following [[blog]] posts appear on [Planet +Git](http://planet.git-scm.com/). Please visit my [[main_blog_page|blog]] for +all my posts. + +[[!inline pages="link(tag/git) and link(tag/blog) and !link(tag/draft)" description="madduck's blog +entries for Planet Git" archive="no" actions="no"]]
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.06.02:does-this-seem-familiar.mdwn b/blog/2010.06.02:does-this-seem-familiar.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1e6fcb7 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.06.02:does-this-seem-familiar.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +[[!meta title="Does this seem familiar?"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian bp environment oil draft]] + +[This](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHmhxpQEGPo) makes me want to buy +[this](http://www.despair.com/bp.html). + +The sad thing is that in the end, nature will have taken a big hit, many +humans will have been affected negatively, but the fuckheads responsible for +this, those that purposely downplayed risks and lied (and [continue to +lie](http://www.perceptualedge.com/blog/?p=790)) about their abilities to +contain spills so they could make more money, they'll walk freely, or with +punishments that are in no relation to their crimes. + +I want everyone who carries any responsibility in this to be disowned, and +their money made available to an environmental institution (and not the +government). And then I'd have them spend the rest of their lives cleaning and +helping nature recover.
change conf phone number
diff --git a/phoneconf.mdwn b/phoneconf.mdwn index e4bd7f7..5004a56 100644 --- a/phoneconf.mdwn +++ b/phoneconf.mdwn @@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ for conferences in which I participate.* You can reach the conference centre in two ways: -* with a regular phone, by dialing `+41.44.5201426` (`044.5201426` if you are +* with a regular phone, by dialing `+41.32.5125494` (`032.5125494` if you are inside Switzerland) * using a SIP-capable phone, by dialing `sip:conf@madduck.net`
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..aff5f49 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +Was your friend reading a Git and a Cluster Book? Have a look at 00:38 in the first video of this page : http://www.24heures.ch/node/164056
time correction
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn index e85fc5a..8f1a34a 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn @@ -20,8 +20,8 @@ interest. One of my closest friends was part of the act, and he recounts breaking into the ventilation system before sawing through the ceiling, and descending on a -rope. The police detained them for nearly 24 hours, but the message has been -sent. +rope. The police detained them for more than 24 hours, but the message has +been sent. Bravo!
new image
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn index 6b362fd..e85fc5a 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn @@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ responsibility for their reckless actions in Indonesia. Thousands of square kilometres of forest are cleared every day so that companies like Nestlé can make vast sums of money off consumers. -[[!img img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png class="center" alt="Orangutans +\[[!img img/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-nestle.png class="center" alt="Orangutans asking Nestlé for a break"]] Meanwhile, [[!wikipedia desc="Orangutans" Orangutan]] outside the venue were
changes
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn similarity index 95% rename from blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn rename to blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn index 4f87889..6b362fd 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn @@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ planet-lca]] Bravo Greenpeace Switzerland! At [[!wikipedia Nestlé]]'s annual shareholder -meeting 2010, you descended from the ceiling in the middle of the +meeting 2010 last week, you descended from the ceiling in the middle of the presentations with flyers and a banner asking for the company to take responsibility for their reckless actions in Indonesia. diff --git a/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png b/blog/img/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-nestle.png similarity index 100% rename from blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png rename to blog/img/2010.04.19:orangutans-at-nestle.png
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn similarity index 89% rename from blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn rename to blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn index 54036b9..4f87889 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-shareholder-meeting.mdwn @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="Orangutans at the Nestlé shareholder meeting"]] [[!tag blog ch greenpeace nestle environment indonesia palmoil planet-debian -planet-lca draft]] +planet-lca]] Bravo Greenpeace Switzerland! At [[!wikipedia Nestlé]]'s annual shareholder meeting 2010, you descended from the ceiling in the middle of the @@ -19,9 +19,9 @@ Break! Have a …"). The Orang Utans are pushed towards extinction by capitalist interest. One of my closest friends was part of the act, and he recounts breaking into -the ventilation system, waiting there for 30 hours, before sawing through the -ceiling, and descending on a rope. The police detained them for nearly 24 -hours, but the message has been sent. +the ventilation system before sawing through the ceiling, and descending on a +rope. The police detained them for nearly 24 hours, but the message has been +sent. Bravo!
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b3f8610 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,10 @@ +Actually, I was pretty pissed today, because all these +people took the train, leading to *MY* train being more +than two hours late. I had planned to meet the leader of +MidnightBSD, so from one BSD head to the other, but the +remaining time wasn’t worth it. + +I had the ticket day changed to tomorrow, when I’ll try +again. Still annoyed, though. + +-- mirabilos – tg@d.o
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn index d374ce3..54036b9 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn @@ -1,4 +1,4 @@ -[[!meta title="Orangutans at the Nestlé AGM"]] +[[!meta title="Orangutans at the Nestlé shareholder meeting"]] [[!tag blog ch greenpeace nestle environment indonesia palmoil planet-debian planet-lca draft]] @@ -25,8 +25,8 @@ hours, but the message has been sent. Bravo! -Read more on the [Greenpeace webpage](http://www.greenpeace.org/kitkat), the -[Greenpeace press +Read more (and watch videos of the spectacular descent) on the [Greenpeace +webpage](http://www.greenpeace.org/kitkat), the [Greenpeace press announcement](http://www.greenpeace.ch/de/themen/wald/wald-news-single/archive/2010/april/article/spektakulaere-greenpeace-aktion-an-nestle-generalversammlung/) and [their blog](http://weblogs.greenpeace.ch/blog/) (all in German), or on [24heures](http://www.24heures.ch/node/164056) (in French). Planetsave has [a
smaller image
diff --git a/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png b/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png index c9e66d0..a46ff03 100644 Binary files a/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png and b/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png differ
restructure and image
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn index e19add0..d374ce3 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn @@ -2,20 +2,24 @@ [[!tag blog ch greenpeace nestle environment indonesia palmoil planet-debian planet-lca draft]] -Bravo Greenpeace Switzerland! At Nestlé's Annual General Meeting 2010, you -descended from the ceiling in the middle of the presentations with flyers and -a banner asking for Nestlé to take responsibility. - -All the while, [[!wikipedia desc="Orangutans" Orangutan]] outside the venue -were protesting Nestlé and asking for a break (copying Nestlé's own slogan -"Have a Break! Have a …"). +Bravo Greenpeace Switzerland! At [[!wikipedia Nestlé]]'s annual shareholder +meeting 2010, you descended from the ceiling in the middle of the +presentations with flyers and a banner asking for the company to take +responsibility for their reckless actions in Indonesia. Thousands of square kilometres of forest are cleared every day so that -companies like Nestlé can make vast sums of money off consumers. The lives of -the Orang Utan is pushed towards extinction by capitalism. +companies like Nestlé can make vast sums of money off consumers. + +[[!img img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png class="center" alt="Orangutans +asking Nestlé for a break"]] + +Meanwhile, [[!wikipedia desc="Orangutans" Orangutan]] outside the venue were +protesting Nestlé and asking for a break (copying Nestlé's own slogan "Have a +Break! Have a …"). The Orang Utans are pushed towards extinction by capitalist +interest. One of my closest friends was part of the act, and he recounts breaking into -the ventilation system, staying there for 30 hours, before sawing through the +the ventilation system, waiting there for 30 hours, before sawing through the ceiling, and descending on a rope. The police detained them for nearly 24 hours, but the message has been sent. diff --git a/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png b/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c9e66d0 Binary files /dev/null and b/blog/img/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-nestle.png differ
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e19add0 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:orangutans-at-the-nestle-agm.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,32 @@ +[[!meta title="Orangutans at the Nestlé AGM"]] +[[!tag blog ch greenpeace nestle environment indonesia palmoil planet-debian +planet-lca draft]] + +Bravo Greenpeace Switzerland! At Nestlé's Annual General Meeting 2010, you +descended from the ceiling in the middle of the presentations with flyers and +a banner asking for Nestlé to take responsibility. + +All the while, [[!wikipedia desc="Orangutans" Orangutan]] outside the venue +were protesting Nestlé and asking for a break (copying Nestlé's own slogan +"Have a Break! Have a …"). + +Thousands of square kilometres of forest are cleared every day so that +companies like Nestlé can make vast sums of money off consumers. The lives of +the Orang Utan is pushed towards extinction by capitalism. + +One of my closest friends was part of the act, and he recounts breaking into +the ventilation system, staying there for 30 hours, before sawing through the +ceiling, and descending on a rope. The police detained them for nearly 24 +hours, but the message has been sent. + +Bravo! + +Read more on the [Greenpeace webpage](http://www.greenpeace.org/kitkat), the +[Greenpeace press +announcement](http://www.greenpeace.ch/de/themen/wald/wald-news-single/archive/2010/april/article/spektakulaere-greenpeace-aktion-an-nestle-generalversammlung/) +and [their blog](http://weblogs.greenpeace.ch/blog/) (all in German), or on +[24heures](http://www.24heures.ch/node/164056) (in French). Planetsave has [a +decent coverage in +English](http://planetsave.com/blog/2010/04/16/greenpeace-asks-nestle-to-give-orang-utans-a-break/). + +NP: [Emerson, Lake & Palmer](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Emerson%2C%20Lake%20%26%20Palmer&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Brain Salad Surgery*
update tags
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn index dbb38a4..038a8ef 100644 --- a/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="Planes or volcano"]] -[[!tag blog draft]] +[[!tag blog environment planet-debian planet-lca co2 volcano airplanes +statistics]] Via [internotes.ch](http://www.internotes.ch/planes-or-volcano-9):
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dbb38a4 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.04.17:planes-or-volcano.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,9 @@ +[[!meta title="Planes or volcano"]] +[[!tag blog draft]] + +Via [internotes.ch](http://www.internotes.ch/planes-or-volcano-9): + +[[!img img/2010.04.17:planes_or_volcano.png class="center" alt="Planes produce +way more CO₂ than the volcano"]] + +NP: [Emerson, Lake & Palmer](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Emerson%2C%20Lake%20%26%20Palmer&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Tarkus* diff --git a/blog/img/2010.04.17:planes_or_volcano.png b/blog/img/2010.04.17:planes_or_volcano.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cb938d6 Binary files /dev/null and b/blog/img/2010.04.17:planes_or_volcano.png differ
use update-rc.d disable
diff --git a/docs/ipv6.mdwn b/docs/ipv6.mdwn index 6720c5a..20fdc64 100644 --- a/docs/ipv6.mdwn +++ b/docs/ipv6.mdwn @@ -285,8 +285,7 @@ appear when the daemon starts. It is also a good idea to prevent `aiccu` from starting at boot when using this method: - update-rc.d -f aiccu remove - update-rc.d aiccu stop 0 0 . + update-rc.d aiccu disable ## Allowing proto-41 traffic
fix ayiya mtu
diff --git a/docs/ipv6.mdwn b/docs/ipv6.mdwn
index 8d24902..6720c5a 100644
--- a/docs/ipv6.mdwn
+++ b/docs/ipv6.mdwn
@@ -279,7 +279,7 @@ appear when the daemon starts.
iface sixxs inet manual
pre-up invoke-rc.d aiccu start
up sleep 1
- up ip link set mtu 1480 dev $IFACE
+ up ip link set mtu 1280 dev $IFACE
post-down invoke-rc.d aiccu stop
It is also a good idea to prevent `aiccu` from starting at boot when using
fix config typo
diff --git a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
index 1bfd494..b2be8ef 100644
--- a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
+++ b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
@@ -84,7 +84,7 @@ verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same.
[puppetd]
server=puppetmaster.madduck.net
- vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster
+ vardir=/var/lib/puppet
ssldir=$vardir/ssl
# …
remove draft tag
diff --git a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn index 390c6ba..1bfd494 100644 --- a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ [[!meta title="Splitting puppetd from puppetmaster"]] -[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian puppet ruby draft]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian puppet ruby]] My relationship with [Puppet](http://reductivelabs.com/trac/puppet) is one of love and hate. I am forced to use it simply because there is no better tool
complement links
diff --git a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
index 042521f..390c6ba 100644
--- a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
+++ b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
@@ -11,8 +11,8 @@ the fact that `puppetd` (the client) and `puppetmasterd` (the server) use the
same working directory, `/var/lib/puppet`. Since I consider and would like to
treatthe machine on which `puppetmasterd` is running just another puppet
client, I was running into funky issues related to [[!debbug desc="SSL
-certificate confusion" XXXXXX]] and [[!debbug desc="SSL revocation horrifics"
-XXXXXX]].
+certificate confusion" 514550]], [[!debbug desc="obscure errors" 573416]], and
+[SSL revocation horrors](http://reductivelabs.com/redmine/issues/show/1525).
The following hence assumes that you have installed or are planning to install
`puppetd` on the machine running your puppetmaster, and that you have two
@@ -122,7 +122,8 @@ verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same.
Do yourself the favour and check that it's all working.
6. Optionally, you can now clean up the client stuff in the server's working
- directory, for instance like this:
+ directory, for instance like this (it worked for me, but this *is* the
+ sledgehammer approach):
# /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop
# cd /var/lib/puppetmaster
fix spacing
diff --git a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
index eb86664..042521f 100644
--- a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
+++ b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn
@@ -26,27 +26,27 @@ verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same.
1. Stop everything:
- /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop
- /etc/init.d/puppet stop
+ /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop
+ /etc/init.d/puppet stop
(also verify that you have not instructed `cron` to [restart these
services](http://reductivelabs.com/trac/puppet/wiki/Recipes/MutualRestart))
2. Rename the working directory:
- mv /var/lib/puppet /var/lib/puppetmaster
+ mv /var/lib/puppet /var/lib/puppetmaster
and amend `/etc/puppet/puppet.conf` accordingly:
- [main]
- # …
- vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster
- ssldir=$vardir/ssl
- # …
+ [main]
+ # …
+ vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster
+ ssldir=$vardir/ssl
+ # …
- [puppetmasterd]
- certname=puppetmaster.madduck.net
- # …
+ [puppetmasterd]
+ certname=puppetmaster.madduck.net
+ # …
I am doing this in `[main]`, planning to override it for `puppetd` later,
because `puppetd` is the only program which makes sense to be separated
@@ -60,11 +60,11 @@ verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same.
You can verify that the configuration has been amended by making sure that
there is no output from the following command:
- # puppetmasterd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet/' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG
+ # puppetmasterd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet/' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG
3. Now restart puppetmaster:
- /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start
+ /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start
and verify that it starts.
@@ -74,66 +74,66 @@ verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same.
Since the client will get its own working directory (and thus a new SSL
certificate), you want to remove all records of the old certificate:
- # puppetca --list --all
- + puppetmaster.madduck.net
- + vera.madduck.net
- # puppetca --clean vera.madduck.net
+ # puppetca --list --all
+ + puppetmaster.madduck.net
+ + vera.madduck.net
+ # puppetca --clean vera.madduck.net
4. Change the configuration file to tell `puppetd` about its working
directory:
- [puppetd]
- server=puppetmaster.madduck.net
- vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster
- ssldir=$vardir/ssl
- # …
+ [puppetd]
+ server=puppetmaster.madduck.net
+ vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster
+ ssldir=$vardir/ssl
+ # …
This you can verify with the following command, which should not print
anything:
- # puppetd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet[^/]' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG
+ # puppetd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet[^/]' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG
5. Now install [[!debpkg puppet]], or (re)start it if it's already installed:
- # /etc/init.d/puppet stop
- # puppetd --no-daemonize --onetime --verbose --waitforcert 30 &
- info: Creating a new SSL key for vera.madduck.net
- warning: peer certificate won't be verified in this SSL session
- info: Caching certificate for ca
- info: Creating a new SSL certificate request for vera.madduck.net
+ # /etc/init.d/puppet stop
+ # puppetd --no-daemonize --onetime --verbose --waitforcert 30 &
+ info: Creating a new SSL key for vera.madduck.net
+ warning: peer certificate won't be verified in this SSL session
+ info: Caching certificate for ca
+ info: Creating a new SSL certificate request for vera.madduck.net
- # puppetca --list
- vera.madduck.net
- # puppetca --sign vera.madduck.net
- notice: Signed certificate request for vera.madduck.net
- notice: Removing file Puppet::SSL::CertificateRequest vera.madduck.net at '/var/lib/puppetmaster/ssl/ca/requests/vera.madduck.net.pem'
+ # puppetca --list
+ vera.madduck.net
+ # puppetca --sign vera.madduck.net
+ notice: Signed certificate request for vera.madduck.net
+ notice: Removing file Puppet::SSL::CertificateRequest vera.madduck.net at '/var/lib/puppetmaster/ssl/ca/requests/vera.madduck.net.pem'
- # fg
- info: Caching certificate for vera.madduck.net
- info: Caching certificate_revocation_list for ca
- […]
+ # fg
+ info: Caching certificate for vera.madduck.net
+ info: Caching certificate_revocation_list for ca
+ […]
- # puppetca --list --all
- + puppetmaster.madduck.net
- + vera.madduck.net
+ # puppetca --list --all
+ + puppetmaster.madduck.net
+ + vera.madduck.net
- # /etc/init.d/puppet start
+ # /etc/init.d/puppet start
Do yourself the favour and check that it's all working.
6. Optionally, you can now clean up the client stuff in the server's working
directory, for instance like this:
- # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop
- # cd /var/lib/puppetmaster
- # tar -cf /tmp/puppetmaster.workingdir-backup.tar .
- # find ../puppet -type f -printf '%P\n' | xargs rm
- # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start
+ # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop
+ # cd /var/lib/puppetmaster
+ # tar -cf /tmp/puppetmaster.workingdir-backup.tar .
+ # find ../puppet -type f -printf '%P\n' | xargs rm
+ # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start
7. If you stopped `cron` before (and your puppet recipes have not since
restarted it):
- /etc/init.d/cron start
+ /etc/init.d/cron start
All done. I wish puppet, or at least Debian's puppet packages would do this by
default. Please [let me know](mailto:puppet-conversion@pobox.madduck.net) if
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eb86664 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.03.11:splitting-puppetd-from-puppetmaster.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,143 @@ +[[!meta title="Splitting puppetd from puppetmaster"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian puppet ruby draft]] + +My relationship with [Puppet](http://reductivelabs.com/trac/puppet) is one of +love and hate. I am forced to use it simply because there is no better tool +around, but I hate it in so many ways that I don't even want to start to +enumerate (hint: most have to do with Ruby, actually). + +Today I decided to put an end to one thing that has been driving me insane: +the fact that `puppetd` (the client) and `puppetmasterd` (the server) use the +same working directory, `/var/lib/puppet`. Since I consider and would like to +treatthe machine on which `puppetmasterd` is running just another puppet +client, I was running into funky issues related to [[!debbug desc="SSL +certificate confusion" XXXXXX]] and [[!debbug desc="SSL revocation horrifics" +XXXXXX]]. + +The following hence assumes that you have installed or are planning to install +`puppetd` on the machine running your puppetmaster, and that you have two +fully-qualified domain names for the machine. For instance, I run puppetmaster +on `vera.madduck.net`, and `puppetmaster.madduck.net` is an alias for the same +machine. I'll use these names in the following as examples. + +The following may be Debian-specific, as I am solely using the [[!debpkg +puppet]] and [[!debpkg puppetmaster]] packages for my experimentation and +verification. Your mileage may vary, but the concept shall be the same. + +1. Stop everything: + + /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop + /etc/init.d/puppet stop + + (also verify that you have not instructed `cron` to [restart these + services](http://reductivelabs.com/trac/puppet/wiki/Recipes/MutualRestart)) + +2. Rename the working directory: + + mv /var/lib/puppet /var/lib/puppetmaster + + and amend `/etc/puppet/puppet.conf` accordingly: + + [main] + # … + vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster + ssldir=$vardir/ssl + # … + + [puppetmasterd] + certname=puppetmaster.madduck.net + # … + + I am doing this in `[main]`, planning to override it for `puppetd` later, + because `puppetd` is the only program which makes sense to be separated + from the rest. Since only the puppetmaster needs a special certificate + name, that is set specifically in the `[puppetmasterd]` section. + + If you use [[!debpkg apache2]] or [[!debpkg nginx]] in front of your + puppetmasters, make sure to amend the SSL file locations in the virtual + host definition and restart (!) the service. + + You can verify that the configuration has been amended by making sure that + there is no output from the following command: + + # puppetmasterd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet/' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG + +3. Now restart puppetmaster: + + /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start + + and verify that it starts. + + If your puppetmaster previously ran under a different name, it will create + itself a new certificate and sign it. + + Since the client will get its own working directory (and thus a new SSL + certificate), you want to remove all records of the old certificate: + + # puppetca --list --all + + puppetmaster.madduck.net + + vera.madduck.net + # puppetca --clean vera.madduck.net + +4. Change the configuration file to tell `puppetd` about its working + directory: + + [puppetd] + server=puppetmaster.madduck.net + vardir=/var/lib/puppetmaster + ssldir=$vardir/ssl + # … + + This you can verify with the following command, which should not print + anything: + + # puppetd --genconfig | grep -q '/var/lib/puppet[^/]' && echo SOMETHING IS WRONG + +5. Now install [[!debpkg puppet]], or (re)start it if it's already installed: + + # /etc/init.d/puppet stop + # puppetd --no-daemonize --onetime --verbose --waitforcert 30 & + info: Creating a new SSL key for vera.madduck.net + warning: peer certificate won't be verified in this SSL session + info: Caching certificate for ca + info: Creating a new SSL certificate request for vera.madduck.net + + # puppetca --list + vera.madduck.net + # puppetca --sign vera.madduck.net + notice: Signed certificate request for vera.madduck.net + notice: Removing file Puppet::SSL::CertificateRequest vera.madduck.net at '/var/lib/puppetmaster/ssl/ca/requests/vera.madduck.net.pem' + + # fg + info: Caching certificate for vera.madduck.net + info: Caching certificate_revocation_list for ca + […] + + # puppetca --list --all + + puppetmaster.madduck.net + + vera.madduck.net + + # /etc/init.d/puppet start + + Do yourself the favour and check that it's all working. + +6. Optionally, you can now clean up the client stuff in the server's working + directory, for instance like this: + + # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster stop + # cd /var/lib/puppetmaster + # tar -cf /tmp/puppetmaster.workingdir-backup.tar . + # find ../puppet -type f -printf '%P\n' | xargs rm + # /etc/init.d/puppetmaster start + +7. If you stopped `cron` before (and your puppet recipes have not since + restarted it): + + /etc/init.d/cron start + +All done. I wish puppet, or at least Debian's puppet packages would do this by +default. Please [let me know](mailto:puppet-conversion@pobox.madduck.net) if +the above conversion works for you. Then I might start working on an automated +migration. + +NP: [Genesis](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Genesis&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Selling England by the Pound*
fix link
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn index 379f369..c4031ff 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn @@ -2,6 +2,21 @@ [[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca ubuntu google netbooks rant cloud security privacy draft linux-com]] +http://www.scripting.com/stories/2010/02/14/googleDidSomethingSeriousl.html + +twitter+facebook+google are all US. companies and governments are increasingly +relying on those companies, and users are relying more and more on those media +for basic communication. What do you think will happen if the US declares war +on your country? Will you even be able to react? + +Data souvereignity + +http://www.stuff.co.nz/3331115/Facebook-users-easy-prey + +http://www.gamesbrief.com/2010/02/how-dont-be-evil-leads-to-guantanamo-bay/ + +http://whentwitterisdown.com/ + Here is another in my list of growing reasons why I think Ubuntu is going bad: [net books won't have OpenOffice installed anymore](http://digitizor.com/2010/02/05/openoffice-dropped-from-ubuntu-netbook-edition-10-04/). diff --git a/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn index 4092d03..5ab63fc 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn @@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ politics intellectual-property ip copyright freedom]] The [[most common -criticism|blog/2010:02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance]] of the +criticism|blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance]] of the [[!wikipedia desc="Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)" Anti-Counterfeiting_Trade_Agreement]] is the lack of transparency. Before the nations disclose the terms of the agreement under negotiation, we are unable
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4092d03 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.26:acta-leak-no-surprises-about-transparency-blockers.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,39 @@ +[[!meta title="ACTA leak: no surprises about transparency blockers"]] +[[!tag blog acta planet-lca planet-debian leaks privacy transparency de us +politics intellectual-property ip copyright freedom]] + +The [[most common +criticism|blog/2010:02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance]] of the +[[!wikipedia desc="Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)" +Anti-Counterfeiting_Trade_Agreement]] is the lack of transparency. Before the +nations disclose the terms of the agreement under negotiation, we are unable +to gain an idea of the big picture, let alone voice our opinions and push for +changes. Our politicians don't want us to know. We rely on [[leaked +documents|blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked]] for our information. This is +backwards in a world where a state should represent its people. This smells +foul to me. + +There are undoubtedly some good reasons for the treaty, and if we can contain +worldwide, large-scale trade of counterfeited goods and medicine, then that +would be a net benefit to us all. However, we must not allow certain +governments to succomb to the pressure of (commercially-motivated) lobbyists, +to extend that pressure onto other nations using trade as a means of pressure, +and to slash our freedom as if it were an inconvenient obstacle in their way. + +Only if the terms under negotiation become publicly available, and the public +is given a voice, then we can help our governments in entering an agreement +that is in the interest of its people, rather than a threat to us. + +It is hardly surprising that [total capitalist nation USA are the strongest +opponents of transparency](http://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/4819/125/), +because [the public might delay or even prevent the +treaty](http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/12/feds-fear-acta-scrutiny/). I +was also not surprised to see South Korea and Germany in the list of +supporters of secrecy either. It is interesting to see that the leaders of +Singapore, Belgium, Portugal, and Denmark also seem to believe that these +negotiations should be withheld from the public. Does anyone know about +Switzerland? + +I tip my hat to New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, +Ireland, Hungary, Poland, Estonia, and Austria for their support of +transparency.
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.25:n900.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.25:n900.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..adc1c87 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.25:n900.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,5 @@ +[[!meta title="N900"]] +[[!tag blog draft]] + +- no filesystem encryption +- no way to dial a specific number via SIP directly out of a contact
reply
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn index cca032c..190e584 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn @@ -3,3 +3,8 @@ Kudos to the cafe owner who decided to switch to cage free eggs! I have no problem with businesses making profits, but I try hard to scrutinize who I support with my consumerism. Furthermore, I'd rather pay more to a business owner who has a conscience and is conscious of their customers' health and sustainability, than one who is solely focused on short term profits. Based upon my limited experience with pricing models, I wouldn't be surprised if that type of strategy to require higher margins. + +-- [Albert Lincoln Lash](http://albertlash.com) + +> Thanks for this interesting aspect. Now I need to figure out how to contact +> the owners from overseas to get their statement. ;) -- [[madduck]]
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.20:charge-advertisers-for-the-last-mile.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.20:charge-advertisers-for-the-last-mile.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..da1e84a --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.20:charge-advertisers-for-the-last-mile.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,41 @@ +[[!meta title="Charge advertisers for the last mile"]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca isps internet idea net-neutrality +competition taxis]] + +ISPs fight a raging war over [[!wikipedia net neutrality]] because their +infrastructure cannot keep up with the increasing demand (or rather supply) of +content. Therefore, ISPs want to charge the users premiums if they wish to use +certain services on the Net. For instance, since videos are usually large in +size, one would have to purchase e.g. the "platinum package" to be able to +access video hosting sites. It would be a serious loss of freedom if they won, +and the Internet would never be the same. + +Let's turn that idea around: since sites that use advertising make money off +every visitor, they are really the ones that should pay the ISPs so that they +can improve their infrastructure. The same applies to sites that make money +off visitors in other ways. + +At the moment, users pay to access the network (which is like [paying a taxi +to get to the market](http://costela.net/2009/08/taxi-driver-analogies/)), so +that they can visit sites where advertisers make money showing ads to the +visitor, which might actually let them to pay a manufacturer for a product — +the end user pays twice, and the advertisers take in money, leeching off the +ISPs investing into their infrastructure. + +I think that the advertiser and not the consumer should pay the ISP to keep +the infrastructure afloat — improve it even. The manufacturer should then pay +the advertisers for displaying the ad, and the user consumes if s/he chooses +to — and everyone only pays once, for services they want. This will help +improve competition among providers, which should always be the goal. + +If my ISP would start to record the volume of HTTP traffic I produce for each +target site, charge the targets appropriately (they could start with a couple +at first), and I'd get free connectivity in turn, I'd be quite happy. The ISP +wouldn't have to look at the contents at all for that. + +I don't yet know what to do if the target sites choose not to pay up. ISPs +could block them, or throttle or deprioritise traffic, but either of those +might simply lead to an exodus of users, just like "premiums" would. + +As usual, this just needs to be done by many ISPs in concert. Are you +listening?
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cca032c --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,5 @@ +Kudos to the cafe owner who decided to switch to cage free eggs! + +I have no problem with businesses making profits, but I try hard to scrutinize who I support with my consumerism. Furthermore, I'd rather pay more to a business owner who has a conscience and is conscious of their customers' health and sustainability, than one who is solely focused on short term profits. + +Based upon my limited experience with pricing models, I wouldn't be surprised if that type of strategy to require higher margins.
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7558cbf --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.19:making-money-off-ethics.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ +[[!meta title="Making money off ethics"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian ethics eggs nz wellington free-range]] + +The coffee place around the corner from where [Penny](http://she.geek.nz) and +I lived for the past two months — [Caffé +Mode](http://maps.google.com/maps/place?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:unofficial&client=iceweasel-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=cafe+mode+kelburn&fb=1&hq=cafe+mode&hnear=kelburn&cid=11964434522604483108) +— offers to make your food using free-range eggs for NZ$1. Free-range eggs are +more expensive than normal ones, but the price difference is not one dollar. +Therefore, the cafe makes a profit every time a customer makes the right +choice. + +I went in this morning to ask them about it, and the guy taking my coffee +order admitted stale-mate. When I suggested that the cafe should use +free-range eggs exclusively, he agreed. Let's hope that he lets those making +that decision know, and that the cafe soon stops making money on ethical +choices.
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.18:thank-you-catalyst.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.18:thank-you-catalyst.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c14bc68 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.18:thank-you-catalyst.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,32 @@ +[[!meta title="Thank you, Catalyst!"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian life catalyst hospitality nz penny]] + +Tomorrow, [Penny](http://she.geek.nz) and I head off back home, and two months +of living in NZ come to an end. (did you hear that, +[pleaserobme.com](http://pleaserobme.com/)?) + +Maybe I'll find the time to write about my impressions of living on this side +of the planet, and being immersed in Kiwi culture while going after my daily +routine and trying to work as much as I could. But there is one thing that +should not wait: + +Thank you, [Catalyst IT](http://catalyst.net.nz) for giving us workspaces! For +the better part of 6 weeks, you gave us our own room, monitors, keyboards, +mice, and connectivity. And more than that: you welcomed us, let us +participate in sessions, invited us to your parties, received our parcels, +sent out letters, and generally provided us with a great environment to work. +This was certainly well above what we had dreamed of. + +At times, I was forced to stay into the middle of the night — 12 hours time +difference with Europe is not always easy — and spent waking hours in your +building alone. Thank you for your trust! + +Catalyst is a fully New Zealand owned company who deliver critical open source +business systems to some of NZ's largest organisations, and organisations +worldwide. Catalyst was also a major enabler of +[LCA2010](http://lca2010.org.nz), and a sponsor of [[!wikipedia Kiwi Foo +Camp]], both events that I had the privilege to attend. + +Let me know when you're in my part of the world. ;) + +NP: [The Mamaku Project](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=The%20Mamaku%20Project&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Karekare*
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn index 921615b..4330367 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn @@ -15,14 +15,14 @@ document](http://www.pcinpact.com/media/cover_note-EP-documents-11-02.doc) and [the coverpage](http://www.pcinpact.com/media/Report_7th-round-TPC.doc) are available for direct download. -[Michael Geist over at p2pnet.net has a first -analysis](http://www.p2pnet.net/story/35893): +[Michael Geist has a first +analysis](http://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/4795/125/) > A brief report from the European Commission authored by Pedro Velasco > Martins (an EU negotiator) on the most recent round of ACTA negotiations in > Guadalajara, Mexico has leaked, providing new information on the substance > of the talks, how countries are addressing the transparency concerns, and -> plans for future negotiations. [read -> more…](http://www.p2pnet.net/story/35893) +> plans for future negotiations. ([read +> more…](http://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/4795/125/)) NP: [Dimmer](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Dimmer&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Degrees of Existence*
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..921615b --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.18:acta-documents-leaked.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,28 @@ +[[!meta title="ACTA documents leaked"]] +[[!tag blog acta planet-lca planet-debian leaks privacy transparency eu ch +politics nz intellectual-property ip copyright freedom]] + +Shortly after I wrote [[my last article about ACTA and the lack of +transparency|2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance]], I was +delighted to find out that a report of the recent negotiations in Mexico has +been leaked. I find it a bit disconcerting that our politicians, who are +theoretically supposed to represent our interests, are writing documents that +can "leak" to the public, when they should have been available to the public +from the start. + +[The +document](http://www.pcinpact.com/media/cover_note-EP-documents-11-02.doc) and +[the coverpage](http://www.pcinpact.com/media/Report_7th-round-TPC.doc) are +available for direct download. + +[Michael Geist over at p2pnet.net has a first +analysis](http://www.p2pnet.net/story/35893): + +> A brief report from the European Commission authored by Pedro Velasco +> Martins (an EU negotiator) on the most recent round of ACTA negotiations in +> Guadalajara, Mexico has leaked, providing new information on the substance +> of the talks, how countries are addressing the transparency concerns, and +> plans for future negotiations. [read +> more…](http://www.p2pnet.net/story/35893) + +NP: [Dimmer](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Dimmer&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Degrees of Existence*
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn index 58155b4..63d42dd 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn @@ -8,9 +8,9 @@ my (limited) searching has not unveiled results, mostly because many mailing lists have "privacy agreements" or somesuch, polluting the results with pointers to those. -If you don't know of such a list, but you are interested in the topic, don't -hesitate to [drop me a line](mailto:privacy-list@pobox.madduck.net). I will -then either let you know when my search was successful, or subscribe you when -I have created a list to fill the void. +If you know such a list, or you don't but you are interested in the topic, +don't hesitate to [drop me a line](mailto:privacy-list@pobox.madduck.net). I +will then either let you know when my search was successful, or subscribe you +when I have created a list to fill the void. NP: [Sola Rosa](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Sola%20Rosa&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Solarized*
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..58155b4 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.17:privacy-discussion-mailing-list.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ +[[!meta title="Privacy discussion mailing list"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian privacy identity lazyweb mailinglist +information-age]] + +Dear lazyweb: I am in search of a mailing list for discussion on matters +related to digital identity and privacy in the information age. Unfortunately, +my (limited) searching has not unveiled results, mostly because many mailing +lists have "privacy agreements" or somesuch, polluting the results with +pointers to those. + +If you don't know of such a list, but you are interested in the topic, don't +hesitate to [drop me a line](mailto:privacy-list@pobox.madduck.net). I will +then either let you know when my search was successful, or subscribe you when +I have created a list to fill the void. + +NP: [Sola Rosa](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Sola%20Rosa&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Solarized*
Bad link in blog post.
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2befde3 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +Seems postfix.org doesn't work, it needs a www in front: http://www.postfix.org/
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn index 73755d4..b43366b 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn @@ -28,14 +28,9 @@ you from copying their work without paying for it — even if you cannot actually purchase the work, because of e.g. [[!wikipedia desc="technical measures designed to prevent certain people from legally obtaining content" DVD_region_code]], or simply because the media companies are greedy and -consider is PR-savvy to delay the release of a given work in certain countries +consider it PR-savvy to delay the release of a given work in certain countries until after people have had a chance to pay a lot of money to the cinemas. -The media producers are failing to control it, and hence they want to turn it -into a cable TV service, which they do know how to control. - -ACTA wants to break the Internet. - In theory, a creative work goes out of copyright 50 or 75 years after its author died, depending on whether the creativity can be attributed to a person or a corporation, respectively. Therefore, 50 or 75 years after creation, it @@ -46,6 +41,10 @@ Sounds plausible to you and me, but this sort of stuff frightens companies like Disney, who seem powerful enough to [[!wikipedia desc="simply have the law changed" Copyright_Term_Extension_Act]]. That is not how things should work. +The media producers are failing to control the Internet, and hence they want +to turn it into something more like cable TV, which they do know how to +control. + ACTA aims to make copyright infringement a criminal offence. ACTA wants to make it possible for a government to cut you off the Internet @@ -63,6 +62,8 @@ legally binding. ACTA will create a [culture of surveillance and suspicion](http://www.fsf.org/campaigns/acta/). +ACTA is designed to break the Internet, among other things. + But worst of all: I am just speculating because **we are not supposed to know the details**.
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn index 3719828..73755d4 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="ACTA: less knowledge means less resistance"]] [[!tag blog acta eu ch politics nz planet-lca planet-debian transparency -intellectual-property ip copyright freedom draft]] +intellectual-property ip copyright freedom kiwifoocamp]] Right now, your government is probably engaged in the discussion of the [[!wikipedia desc="Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)" @@ -8,21 +8,19 @@ Anti-Counterfeiting_Trade_Agreement]]. You are likely not aware of that because **your government has been actively keeping these negotiations and details surrounding them secret.** -That's right — your government does not want you to know about a treaty that -may well have far-reaching negative effects on your freedom, as well as your -basic human rights. - -One theory explaining this secrecy is the drivers of ACTA want the agreement -partners to go along and sign the treaty. They fear, however, that this will -not go smoothly if the public gets to have their say. +Your government does not want you to know about a treaty that +has far-reaching negative effects on your freedom, as well as your basic human +rights. If you did know, you might [speak up and make it difficult for the +drivers of ACTA to smoothly push their interests past +you](http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/12/feds-fear-acta-scrutiny/). The red light should light up in your head right now! The goals of the "trade agreement" that is being negotiated are multifarious, but essentially seem to centre around challenges related to intellectual property, and copyright in the digital age, even though it is sometimes -claimed that the agreement serves mainly to contain trade of fake Prada bags -and Rolex watches. +claimed that the agreement serves primarily to contain trade of fake Prada +bags and Rolex watches. In reality, ACTA is about content producers like movie studios, who [[!wikipedia desc="try" DMCA]] [[!wikipedia desc="everything" DRM]] to prevent @@ -33,23 +31,34 @@ DVD_region_code]], or simply because the media companies are greedy and consider is PR-savvy to delay the release of a given work in certain countries until after people have had a chance to pay a lot of money to the cinemas. +The media producers are failing to control it, and hence they want to turn it +into a cable TV service, which they do know how to control. + +ACTA wants to break the Internet. + In theory, a creative work goes out of copyright 50 or 75 years after its author died, depending on whether the creativity can be attributed to a person or a corporation, respectively. Therefore, 50 or 75 years after creation, it gets increasingly hard to monetise a work that has not been reinvented in that period of time. -Sounds plausible to you and I, but this sort of stuff frightens companies like +Sounds plausible to you and me, but this sort of stuff frightens companies like Disney, who seem powerful enough to [[!wikipedia desc="simply have the law -changed" Copyright_Term_Extension_Act]]. That is not how the law should work. +changed" Copyright_Term_Extension_Act]]. That is not how things should work. ACTA aims to make copyright infringement a criminal offence. ACTA wants to make it possible for a government to cut you off the Internet because someone thinks you did something bad — they don't actually have to -prove it though, accusation is enough. +prove it though, accusation is enough. Similar efforts have already failed all +over the world, e.g. in [[!wikipedia desc="France" HADOPI_law]] and [New +Zealand](http://it.gen.nz/2008/09/25/cutting-off-your-internet-if-you-are-accused-of-infringement/). +That's a sign, not a reason to try again. -ACTA wants border officials to be able to treat you as if you had no rights. +ACTA wants to set in stone that you have absolutely no rights when you cross +borders. This is largely already the case — border officials can pretty much +do with you whatever they want — now it's supposed to be made official, and +legally binding. ACTA will create a [culture of surveillance and suspicion](http://www.fsf.org/campaigns/acta/). @@ -68,6 +77,14 @@ It's even more important today than before to [put an end to this secrecy](http://arstechnica.com/old/content/2008/09/100-groups-demand-to-see-secret-anticounterfeiting-treaty.ars). Don't let your government enter secret agreements that affect you and your life, refusing to talk to you about it beforehand, and probably refusing all -responsibility afterwards. Talk to your local politician and [ask questions -that cannot be answered with stock +responsibility afterwards. [Talk to your +politicians](http://actaactionnow.org/takeaction.html) and [ask questions that +cannot be answered with stock replies](http://www.crikey.com.au/2009/12/16/dont-waste-your-time-waste-theirs-a-guide-to-writing-to-ministers/). + +If you have specific contact addresses for politicians, please let me know so +I can add them. + +[Colin Jackson](http://it.gen.nz) helped me with this article at [[!wikipedia +Kiwi Foo Camp]]. He also [takes an issue with the secrecy around +ACTA](http://it.gen.nz/2010/01/25/time-for-some-disinfectant/).
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3719828 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.13:acta-less-knowledge-means-less-resistance.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,73 @@ +[[!meta title="ACTA: less knowledge means less resistance"]] +[[!tag blog acta eu ch politics nz planet-lca planet-debian transparency +intellectual-property ip copyright freedom draft]] + +Right now, your government is probably engaged in the discussion of the +[[!wikipedia desc="Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)" +Anti-Counterfeiting_Trade_Agreement]]. You are likely not aware of that +because **your government has been actively keeping these negotiations and +details surrounding them secret.** + +That's right — your government does not want you to know about a treaty that +may well have far-reaching negative effects on your freedom, as well as your +basic human rights. + +One theory explaining this secrecy is the drivers of ACTA want the agreement +partners to go along and sign the treaty. They fear, however, that this will +not go smoothly if the public gets to have their say. + +The red light should light up in your head right now! + +The goals of the "trade agreement" that is being negotiated are multifarious, +but essentially seem to centre around challenges related to intellectual +property, and copyright in the digital age, even though it is sometimes +claimed that the agreement serves mainly to contain trade of fake Prada bags +and Rolex watches. + +In reality, ACTA is about content producers like movie studios, who +[[!wikipedia desc="try" DMCA]] [[!wikipedia desc="everything" DRM]] to prevent +you from copying their work without paying for it — even if you cannot +actually purchase the work, because of e.g. [[!wikipedia desc="technical +measures designed to prevent certain people from legally obtaining content" +DVD_region_code]], or simply because the media companies are greedy and +consider is PR-savvy to delay the release of a given work in certain countries +until after people have had a chance to pay a lot of money to the cinemas. + +In theory, a creative work goes out of copyright 50 or 75 years after its +author died, depending on whether the creativity can be attributed to a person +or a corporation, respectively. Therefore, 50 or 75 years after creation, it +gets increasingly hard to monetise a work that has not been reinvented in that +period of time. + +Sounds plausible to you and I, but this sort of stuff frightens companies like +Disney, who seem powerful enough to [[!wikipedia desc="simply have the law +changed" Copyright_Term_Extension_Act]]. That is not how the law should work. + +ACTA aims to make copyright infringement a criminal offence. + +ACTA wants to make it possible for a government to cut you off the Internet +because someone thinks you did something bad — they don't actually have to +prove it though, accusation is enough. + +ACTA wants border officials to be able to treat you as if you had no rights. + +ACTA will create a [culture of surveillance and +suspicion](http://www.fsf.org/campaigns/acta/). + +But worst of all: I am just speculating because **we are not supposed to know +the details**. + +The best current source of information on ACTA seems to be [Canadian law +professor Dr. Michael Geist](http://www.michaelgeist.ca/tags/acta/99999), who +has been collecting content and linking to articles consistently since the +ACTA negotiations commenced 2–3 years ago. The [Electronic Frontier +Foundation](http://eff.org) also has [comprehensive +resources](http://www.eff.org/issues/acta) available. + +It's even more important today than before to [put an end to this +secrecy](http://arstechnica.com/old/content/2008/09/100-groups-demand-to-see-secret-anticounterfeiting-treaty.ars). +Don't let your government enter secret agreements that affect you and your +life, refusing to talk to you about it beforehand, and probably refusing all +responsibility afterwards. Talk to your local politician and [ask questions +that cannot be answered with stock +replies](http://www.crikey.com.au/2009/12/16/dont-waste-your-time-waste-theirs-a-guide-to-writing-to-ministers/).
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn index 0153ad6..22268ca 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn @@ -4,3 +4,5 @@ Mike > Probably tag-based stuff, like Digg, or social-based approaches like Wikia. > If I knew, I would be doing it. ;) + +Or maybe the Semantic Web will finally become a reality and search will get better (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swoogle). Then again, maybe not (http://www.well.com/~doctorow/metacrap.htm)!
publish
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn index 846c133..e3911ad 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ [[!meta title="Baffling Exchange"]] -[[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca email microsoft exchange crap draft]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca email microsoft exchange crap ul]] I found out yesterday that [my university](http://ul.ie)'s [[!wikipedia Microsoft Exchange Server]] account stopped forwarding my mail on 8 December @@ -34,17 +34,18 @@ or search the phone book. However, considering that UL's [[!wikipedia Outlook Web Access]] instance does not let users of [decent browsers](http://mozilla.org/products/firefox/) search their mailboxes (a "premium feature" [[!wikipedia desc="reserved for -users of Internet Exploder" Outlook_Web_Access#Functionality]], one cannot +users of Internet Exploder" Outlook_Web_Access#Functionality]]), one cannot manipulate more than a page-full of e-mails at a time, bounce messages, or do many of the other operations that make dealing with large amounts of e-mail -possible. Also, ecause Exchange mail — if it doesn't get lost in the first +possible, and because Exchange mail — if it doesn't get lost in the first place — sucks in so many other ways, I certainly prefer my mail to be handled by [a real mail server](http://postfix.org) with a [[proper mail filter (writeup in progress)|docs/mailfilter]]. Maybe the Exchange service pack was simply designed to get rid of outcasts -like me who don't buy into the Microsoft low-quality lock-in? We'll never -know, thanks to the [[!wikipedia desc="proprietarity" proprietary software]] -of their software. +like me who don't buy into the low-Microsoft-quality [[!wikipedia vendor +lock-in]]? We'll never know, thanks to the [[!wikipedia desc="proprietarity" +proprietary software]] of their software (and the fact that the university +service provider apparently does not keep logs of changes). NP: [AC/DC](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=AC/DC&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Back in Black*
reply
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn index 0679094..0153ad6 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn @@ -1,3 +1,6 @@ Hi Martin! You say that you believe "that the days of index-based searches are over," but what do you see as the alternative to index-based search? I am not offering any suggestions so as not to expose my ignorance! Mike + +> Probably tag-based stuff, like Digg, or social-based approaches like Wikia. +> If I knew, I would be doing it. ;)
updates
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn index 6632423..846c133 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn @@ -31,14 +31,16 @@ has bought their ways into the university and spread their germs all across, I need credentials to be able to access shared files, print, browse the library, or search the phone book. -However, considering that UL's [[!wikipedia Outlook Web Access]] instance has -search disabled (Microsoft basically requires you to purchase additional -server licences if you want this premium functionality), you cannot manipulate -more than a page-full of e-mails at a time, bounce messages, or comfortably -use a [decent browser](http://mozilla.org/products/firefox/), and because -Exchange mail sucks in so many other ways, I certainly prefer my mail to be -handled by [a real mail server](http://postfix.org) with a [[proper mail -filter (writeup in progress)|docs/mailfilter]]. +However, considering that UL's [[!wikipedia Outlook Web Access]] instance does +not let users of [decent browsers](http://mozilla.org/products/firefox/) +search their mailboxes (a "premium feature" [[!wikipedia desc="reserved for +users of Internet Exploder" Outlook_Web_Access#Functionality]], one cannot +manipulate more than a page-full of e-mails at a time, bounce messages, or do +many of the other operations that make dealing with large amounts of e-mail +possible. Also, ecause Exchange mail — if it doesn't get lost in the first +place — sucks in so many other ways, I certainly prefer my mail to be handled +by [a real mail server](http://postfix.org) with a [[proper mail filter +(writeup in progress)|docs/mailfilter]]. Maybe the Exchange service pack was simply designed to get rid of outcasts like me who don't buy into the Microsoft low-quality lock-in? We'll never
link fixes
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn index c370620..6632423 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn @@ -2,8 +2,8 @@ [[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca email microsoft exchange crap draft]] I found out yesterday that [my university](http://ul.ie)'s [[!wikipedia -Microsoft Exchange]] account stopped forwarding my mail on 8 December 2009. As -a result, mail accumulated there and remained unseen. +Microsoft Exchange Server]] account stopped forwarding my mail on 8 December +2009. As a result, mail accumulated there and remained unseen. Dear examiners, paper authors, supervisors, sponsors, participants, and peers who responded to my calls and cries related to my [PhD @@ -42,6 +42,7 @@ filter (writeup in progress)|docs/mailfilter]]. Maybe the Exchange service pack was simply designed to get rid of outcasts like me who don't buy into the Microsoft low-quality lock-in? We'll never -know, thanks to the [[!wikipedia proprietarity]] of their software. +know, thanks to the [[!wikipedia desc="proprietarity" proprietary software]] +of their software. NP: [AC/DC](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=AC/DC&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Back in Black*
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c370620 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.10:baffling-exchange.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,47 @@ +[[!meta title="Baffling Exchange"]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca email microsoft exchange crap draft]] + +I found out yesterday that [my university](http://ul.ie)'s [[!wikipedia +Microsoft Exchange]] account stopped forwarding my mail on 8 December 2009. As +a result, mail accumulated there and remained unseen. + +Dear examiners, paper authors, supervisors, sponsors, participants, and peers +who responded to my calls and cries related to my [PhD +thesis](http://phd.martin-krafft.net). I am terribly sorry that you were +subjected to this. You replied usually within a few days, but I still sent you +reminder after reminder in the weeks to follow. You must have thought that I +was a real dork. Please forgive me. I really appreciate your patience! + +I filed a ticket with my university's [IT service provider](http://ul.ie/itd), +which got closed the next day with "it should now work again". That wasn't +going to cut it for me, so I reopened the ticket, asking for an explanation. +Next, I received an apology with a bit of speculation. + +After a bit of research, it seems that the reason was to be found in the +"inconsistency" of being an external staff member (i.e. an e-mail address +outside of the [[!wikipedia Active Directory]] domain), but still having an +account on the server. + +On 8 December 2009, the server was upgraded with a service pack. This caused +Exchange to go a little manic on the housekeeping. After all, why would anyone +ever want to forward their e-mail elsewhere, and still have an account? + +Well, I certainly don't want an account, and yet I have to have one: Microsoft +has bought their ways into the university and spread their germs all across, I +need credentials to be able to access shared files, print, browse the library, +or search the phone book. + +However, considering that UL's [[!wikipedia Outlook Web Access]] instance has +search disabled (Microsoft basically requires you to purchase additional +server licences if you want this premium functionality), you cannot manipulate +more than a page-full of e-mails at a time, bounce messages, or comfortably +use a [decent browser](http://mozilla.org/products/firefox/), and because +Exchange mail sucks in so many other ways, I certainly prefer my mail to be +handled by [a real mail server](http://postfix.org) with a [[proper mail +filter (writeup in progress)|docs/mailfilter]]. + +Maybe the Exchange service pack was simply designed to get rid of outcasts +like me who don't buy into the Microsoft low-quality lock-in? We'll never +know, thanks to the [[!wikipedia proprietarity]] of their software. + +NP: [AC/DC](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=AC/DC&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Back in Black*
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0679094 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +Hi Martin! +You say that you believe "that the days of index-based searches are over," but what do you see as the alternative to index-based search? I am not offering any suggestions so as not to expose my ignorance! +Mike
publish
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn index 2b27cca..3e57798 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ [[!meta title="Sign me up to social networking!"]] -[[!tag blog web20 social-networking planet-lca planet-debian spam drafts]] +[[!tag blog web20 social-networking planet-lca planet-debian spam]] I [[do not like it when people tell Web 2.0 sites to send me invitation e-mail|2008.04.29:not-interested-in-networking]]. I won't enumerate the @@ -13,8 +13,8 @@ advertisers to make ends meet while hoping for the big cashflow. I don't have any data to back this up, and I want to change that: -> Please tell all your Web 2.0 sites to send me an invitation! Please use an -> address in the `signmeup.madduck.net` domain for that, and make sure to +> **Please tell all your Web 2.0 sites to send me an invitation**! Please use +> an address in the `signmeup.madduck.net` domain for that, and make sure to > include the domain name of the service to which you sign me up before the > `@` symbol. Also append a hyphen/dash and a random, short string. More on > that in just a sec.
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2b27cca
--- /dev/null
+++ b/blog/2010.02.09:sign-me-up-to-social-networking.mdwn
@@ -0,0 +1,36 @@
+[[!meta title="Sign me up to social networking!"]]
+[[!tag blog web20 social-networking planet-lca planet-debian spam drafts]]
+
+I [[do not like it when people tell Web 2.0 sites to send me invitation
+e-mail|2008.04.29:not-interested-in-networking]]. I won't enumerate the
+reasons here. But there is one reason for why I don't like you passing on my
+address to those sites, which is subject of this article:
+
+Unlike popular belief, the Web 2.0 is not a money-printing machine. It's a
+long road until you can actually generate real money with user content.
+Therefore, some shadey sites are probably selling contact details to
+advertisers to make ends meet while hoping for the big cashflow.
+
+I don't have any data to back this up, and I want to change that:
+
+> Please tell all your Web 2.0 sites to send me an invitation! Please use an
+> address in the `signmeup.madduck.net` domain for that, and make sure to
+> include the domain name of the service to which you sign me up before the
+> `@` symbol. Also append a hyphen/dash and a random, short string. More on
+> that in just a sec.
+>
+> For instance, if you are one of those people that believes that letting
+> people know where you are (and have been) at any point in time, tell
+> [Foursquare](http://www.foursquare.com) to send an invitation to:
+>
+> > `foursquare.com-ponies@signmeup.madduck.net`
+>
+> The reason for the random, short string ("ponies") is simply so that I can
+> later cross-check that a message receiving spam actually went through a
+> social networking site — I intend to catalog the invitation messages.
+
+Thank you for your time. Keep in mind: the more, the merrier. I'll make sure
+to report back on the outcome of this little experiment right here, so watch
+this space.
+
+NP: [Billy Joel](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Billy%20Joel&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Cold Spring Harbor*
fixes
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn index ab28c40..6f3e9fc 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn @@ -2,10 +2,10 @@ [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian wikipedia deletionism crowd-sourcing draft]] -I used to have [[!wikipedia desc="a Wikipedia page" -User:Madduck/Martin_Krafft]]. At [LCA2010](http://lca2010.or.nz), as well as -on random occasions over the past six months, I had to explain to a number of -people \[[why this is no longer the +I used to have [a Wikipedia +page](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Madduck/Martin_Krafft). At +[LCA2010](http://lca2010.or.nz), as well as on random occasions over the past +six months, I had to explain to a number of people [[why this is no longer the case|2009.06.11:wikipedia-notability-and-conflicts-of-interest]] — I eventually gave up. Several discussions later, I've decided that I want my page back. @@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ creation of a new page. Therefore: > [the vcs-pkg effort](http://vcs-pkg.org), then please [create > one](http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Martin_Krafft&action=edit). -Wikipedia is a place where people with more free time get the final say. You +Wikipedia is a place where people with more free time than the others get the final say. You can help in preventing that. NP: [The Phenomenal Handclap Band](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=The%20Phenomenal%20Handclap%20Band&P=amg&OPT1=1): *The Phenomenal Handclap Band*
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ab28c40 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:back-to-wikipedia.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,38 @@ +[[!meta title="Back to Wikipedia?"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian wikipedia deletionism crowd-sourcing +draft]] + +I used to have [[!wikipedia desc="a Wikipedia page" +User:Madduck/Martin_Krafft]]. At [LCA2010](http://lca2010.or.nz), as well as +on random occasions over the past six months, I had to explain to a number of +people [[why this is no longer the +case|2009.06.11:wikipedia-notability-and-conflicts-of-interest]] — I +eventually gave up. Several discussions later, I've decided that I want my +page back. + +The problems in the past were two-fold: + +1. When I found out that someone had created a page for me, I proceeded to + edit it myself. This generated what the Wikipedia Police calls a + [[!wikipedia desc="conflict of interest" WP:COI]]. I should have known + better. + +2. [[!wikipedia desc="Wikipedia deletionists" Deletionism]] seem to get + confused when distinguishing people from books. But oh, there must be so + much satisfaction in policing Wikipedia, especially if you have an anger + problem, and no discernable talent. + +I found an easy way to solve both of these problems at once: crowd-source the +creation of a new page. Therefore: + +> Dear reader: if you think I should have my own Wikipedia page e.g. for my +> contribution to [Debian](http://debian.org), as the author of [The Debian +> System](http://debiansystem.info), as a [FLOSS +> researcher](http://phd.martin-krafft.net), or the person who spearheaded +> [the vcs-pkg effort](http://vcs-pkg.org), then please [create +> one](http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Martin_Krafft&action=edit). + +Wikipedia is a place where people with more free time get the final say. You +can help in preventing that. + +NP: [The Phenomenal Handclap Band](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=The%20Phenomenal%20Handclap%20Band&P=amg&OPT1=1): *The Phenomenal Handclap Band*
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn index e2014c5..0b270b7 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="Optimise Google"]] [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian google firefox privacy bing yahoo -duckduckgo]] +duckduckgo conspiracy]] I had [[previously sought alternative, innovative search engines|2006.11.06:alternative-search-engines]], but none of the proposed @@ -12,11 +12,14 @@ The reasons why I switched included - my dislike of the Google information monopoly and the potential that a single, corporate entity with financial interests, [[!wikipedia desc="gets - to censor the information I see" Censorship_by_Google]] + to censor the information I see" Censorship_by_Google]]. I am sceptical of + their "Do-no-evil" promise because there's nothing binding about it, and if + it gets in the way of money-making, I am sure it'll be discarded at a whim — + if it even still exists. - the awareness that my usage augments their database (although I am probably too far away from mainstream to provide useful data), which translates into - more funds available to them to further strengthen their market position + more funds available to them to further strengthen their market position. - my belief that the days of index-based searches are over, given how [95% (or more) of user-generated content is
fix more links
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn index b2f2b06..e2014c5 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn @@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ The reasons why I switched included - my dislike of the Google information monopoly and the potential that a single, corporate entity with financial interests, [[!wikipedia desc="gets - to censor the information I see" Censorship\_by\_Google]] + to censor the information I see" Censorship_by_Google]] - the awareness that my usage augments their database (although I am probably too far away from mainstream to provide useful data), which translates into
fix links
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn index f332785..b2f2b06 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn @@ -2,8 +2,8 @@ [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian google firefox privacy bing yahoo duckduckgo]] -I had [previously sought alternative, innovative search -engines|2006.11.06:alternative-search-engines], but none of the proposed +I had [[previously sought alternative, innovative search +engines|2006.11.06:alternative-search-engines]], but none of the proposed options made me particularly happy. About a year ago, I came across [DuckDuckGo](http://www.duckduckgo.com), and today, I've been using DDG as my primary search provider for exactly 10 months. @@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ The reasons why I switched included - my dislike of the Google information monopoly and the potential that a single, corporate entity with financial interests, [[!wikipedia desc="gets - to censor the information I see" Censorship by Google]] + to censor the information I see" Censorship\_by\_Google]] - the awareness that my usage augments their database (although I am probably too far away from mainstream to provide useful data), which translates into
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f332785 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.08:optimise-google.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,59 @@ +[[!meta title="Optimise Google"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian google firefox privacy bing yahoo +duckduckgo]] + +I had [previously sought alternative, innovative search +engines|2006.11.06:alternative-search-engines], but none of the proposed +options made me particularly happy. About a year ago, I came across +[DuckDuckGo](http://www.duckduckgo.com), and today, I've been using DDG as my +primary search provider for exactly 10 months. + +The reasons why I switched included + +- my dislike of the Google information monopoly and the potential that a + single, corporate entity with financial interests, [[!wikipedia desc="gets + to censor the information I see" Censorship by Google]] + +- the awareness that my usage augments their database (although I am probably + too far away from mainstream to provide useful data), which translates into + more funds available to them to further strengthen their market position + +- my belief that the days of index-based searches are over, given how [95% (or + more) of user-generated content is + bogus](http://www.daniweb.com/news/story258407.html). Google undoubtedly + optimises the results with obscure, secret algorithms, but that's just not + enough for me. + +- Of course the name — DuckDuckGo — was perhaps the strongest reason to + switch. :) + +I am aware that DuckDuckGo is index-based itself, using the +[Yahoo](http://yahoo.com) API, which, in turns means that DuckDuckGo may +already be using [Bing](http://www.bing.com) data. Sounds a bit like out of +the frying pan into the fire, unfortunately. + +I am still investigating better search solutions, sticking with DuckDuckGo +meanwhile. + +Unfortunately, DuckDuckGo doesn't quite cut the mustard at all times, forcing +me to go to Google instead. For this reason I am glad to find that the +CustomizeGoogle [Firefox](http://mozilla.com/products/firefox) extension has +not been discontinued, but simply renamed to +[OptimizeGoogle](http://www.optimizegoogle.com/). + +This extension allows me to anonymise my identity towards Google, remove click +tracking (which Google doesn't want you to know about and hence hide with +JavaScript), hide ads, and customise a slew of other aspects of the giant's +search engine. It alleviates some of the aforementioned concerns, but not all. + +Maybe it's time to rethink the way I use the web and lower my search needs. + +If you are using Firefox, [try it +out](https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/52498/)! If you're still +using Internet Exploder, you [should +not](http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/microsoft/7006671/German-government-warns-against-using-Microsoft-Internet-Explorer.html), +and instead [upgrade to Firefox](http://getfirefox.com). Users of other +browsers might find similar functionality for their application, or might want +to switch as well. + +NP: [Tunng](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Tunng&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Comments from the Inner Chorus*
publish to linux.com
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn index 49e2cd5..379f369 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="Ubuntu to enforce short-sighted decision on net book users"]] [[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca ubuntu google netbooks rant cloud -security privacy draft]] +security privacy draft linux-com]] Here is another in my list of growing reasons why I think Ubuntu is going bad: [net books won't have OpenOffice installed
update
diff --git a/blog/2007.11.01:criticisms-of-academic-writing.mdwn b/blog/2007.11.01:criticisms-of-academic-writing.mdwn
index 6124db8..3c50493 100644
--- a/blog/2007.11.01:criticisms-of-academic-writing.mdwn
+++ b/blog/2007.11.01:criticisms-of-academic-writing.mdwn
@@ -22,8 +22,10 @@ This study aims to address these issues and answer the above question through
a number of objectives
Studies aim? You answer through objectives?
+the previous section argues
Conboy's thesis
+
07 18:35 < madduck> and if (Smith 2003) already said what you say, quote it in
full, leave it the fuck out, but do not do: "It has been
shown that foo (Smith 2003) and that bar (Smith 2003).
@@ -51,6 +53,4 @@ NP:
[And all because the Lady Loves](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=And%20all%20because%20the%20Lady%20Loves&P=amg&OPT1=1):
*Sister Bridget*
-
-
[[!tag blog draft]]
fix quote
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn index 76409bd..ae477a4 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn @@ -38,8 +38,8 @@ keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about challenges we (as in society) face, and how open-source seems to have many answers, he dropped the following gem, which spoke right to my heart: - Twitter is the "release early, release often" principle applied to - thinking. +> Twitter is the "release early, release often" principle applied to +> thinking. By this simile, journal articles are produced according to the waterfall model. This may well be why they are usually outdated at the time of
fix title
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn index 69ef34a..76409bd 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn @@ -1,4 +1,4 @@ -[[!meta title="Waterfalls aren't bad at all"]] +[[!meta title="Of waterfalls and communication culture"]] [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire software-development communication programming]]
publish
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn index a4363ba..69ef34a 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ [[!meta title="Waterfalls aren't bad at all"]] [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire -software-development communication programming draft]] +software-development communication programming]] I got involved with open-source software before I learnt about software development in a university course. Naturally, when my profs tried to teach
rewrite
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn deleted file mode 100644 index 85feb3d..0000000 --- a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn +++ /dev/null @@ -1,75 +0,0 @@ -[[!meta title="Waterfalls aren't bad at all"]] -[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire -software-development communication programming draft]] - -I got involved with open-source software before I learnt about software -development in a university course. Naturally, when my profs tried to teach -the [[!wikipedia waterfall model]] to me, I couldn't take them too seriously -back then. After all, requirements specification → design → implementation → -verification → maintenance is not compatible with the principle to -[[!wikipedia release early, release often]]. Furthermore, since water cannot -flow uphill, the waterfall model fails to represent development cycles, as -they naturally appear even in behemoth, ancient software nightmares. - -And yet, when embarking on a new project, I do tend to find myself first -thinking about the big picture, instead of churning out the code. I am -certainly not the best coder out there, and it might well be that I need to -learn to break down problems and get an earlier start on the implementation of -components, and maybe that would make me a better programmer. - -However, I maintain that the best way is probably *not* to avoid the -waterfalls and engage in [[!wikipedia extreme programming]], [[!wikipedia -agile software development]], or [[!wikipedia desc="pair-based approaches" -pair programming]] right away. Rather, the best approach should probably -involve a certain level of conceptualisation before code is produced. I like -the [[!wikipedia desc="scrum method" Scrum (development)]] for this reason -(although I wouldn't follow it down to the book). - -I like to think about trickles in the mountains, amidst undisturbed nature, -in (or around) which water droplets joyfully jump around. I am also a big fan -of [[!wikipedia test-driven development]]. - -When [Glyn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 -keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about -challenges we (as in society) face, and how open-source seems to have many -leads to answers, he dropped the following gem, which spoke right to my heart: - - Twitter is the "release early, release often" principle applied to - thinking. - -By this simile, journal articles are produced according to the waterfall -model. This may well be why they are usually outdated at the time of -publication. [[!wikipedia Microblogging]] (like Twitter), on the other hand, -is primarily used to publish stuff before it's ready, or which would never be -ready. - -The epiphany is found in between, as with software development, and has -existed for for a long time: [[!wikipedia web logs]] — web applications that -allow for easy publishing by anyone (which is a different problem not to be -discussed here). - -Since articles on those platforms usually have at least a title and a body, -they require just a little bit more thought than 140 characters of contracted -brain farts, spilled into the world faster than it takes one to stand up, -stretch, and sit down again. - -If you're "following" people on one of those microblogging platforms, I -challenge you to spend the weekend offline and when the urge hits, ask -yourself whether you are actually missing something. I mean *really missing* -something, and by that I mean anything other than the cozy buzz and hum of -entertainment washed upon you to prevent you from having to think about what -you could actually be doing instead. If you feel left out or excluded from -your group of friends, twitch, or just can't do it, consider whether you're a -serious addict. - -Can you even still define your circle of friends? Do they respond to other -contact? - -With that, I'll archive the figure of speech I've been known to use -occasionally: "how should I know what I think if I haven't yet heard what I -said." - -Instead, I'll think about the difference between firefighters with hoses, and -a group of people trying to put out a fire with water pistols. - -NP: [Sola Rosa](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Sola%20Rosa&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Get It Together* diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a4363ba --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:of-waterfalls-and-communication-culture.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,89 @@ +[[!meta title="Waterfalls aren't bad at all"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire +software-development communication programming draft]] + +I got involved with open-source software before I learnt about software +development in a university course. Naturally, when my profs tried to teach +the [[!wikipedia waterfall model]] to me, I couldn't take them too seriously +back then. After all, requirements specification → design → implementation → +verification → maintenance is not really in line with the principle to +[[!wikipedia release early, release often]]. Furthermore, since water cannot +flow uphill, the waterfall model fails to represent development cycles, as +they naturally appear, even in behemoth, ancient software nightmares. + +And yet, when embarking on a new project, I do tend to find myself first +thinking about the big picture, instead of churning out the code. I am +certainly not the best coder out there, and it might well be that I could +benefit from learning to break down problems to get an earlier start on the +implementation of components. + +However, I maintain that avoiding the waterfalls and engaging directly in +[[!wikipedia extreme programming]], [[!wikipedia agile software development]], +or [[!wikipedia desc="pair-based approaches" pair programming]] right away is +*not* the answer. + +Rather, the best approach should probably involve a certain level of +conceptualisation before code is produced. I am a big fan of [[!wikipedia +test-driven development]], and I like the [[!wikipedia desc="scrum method" +Scrum (development)]] for the very reason that it involves talking and +challenging ideas (although I wouldn't follow the method down to the book). + +I like to think about trickles in the mountains where water droplets joyfully +jump around. + +\* \* \* + +When [Glyn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 +keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about +challenges we (as in society) face, and how open-source seems to have many +answers, he dropped the following gem, which spoke right to my heart: + + Twitter is the "release early, release often" principle applied to + thinking. + +By this simile, journal articles are produced according to the waterfall +model. This may well be why they are usually outdated at the time of +publication. [[!wikipedia Microblogging]] (like Twitter), on the other hand, +is primarily used to publish stuff before it's ready, and which would never be +published otherwise. + +With journals on one end, and microblogging on the other, I think the epiphany +is found in between — as with software development: [[!wikipedia web logs]] — +web applications that allow for easy publishing by anyone (which is a +different problem not to be discussed here). + +Since articles on those platforms usually have at least a title and a body, +they require just a little bit more thought than 140 characters of contracted +brain farts, spilled into the world faster than it takes one to stand up, +stretch, and sit down again. + +\* \* \* + +Microblogging seems to be in line with where we're heading: more information, +more self-promotion, more access to more people, and all that with lower +barriers of entry. It's hard to argue against a trend, but I think we've taken +a wrong turn somewhere. + +The one specific instance of content is no longer relevant, and there is no +more time in the day to read elaborate treatments of subject matters. Instead, +what seems to prevail is a constant flow. This flow threatens to replace +actual thinking and discourse, both of which require reflection and time — a +scarce resource used up by ever new, fast-flowing media. + +It seems to me that those who immersed in this flow are unable to get out, as +if sucked in by a maelstrom. I've seen people enter serious withdrawal within +hours of not knowing what's going on in the world. One could miss out on +*something*. + +If you're "following" people on one of those microblogging platforms, I +challenge you to spend the weekend offline and when the urge hits, ask +yourself what you are actually missing. I mean what you are *really missing*, +and by that I mean anything other than the cozy buzz and hum of entertainment +washed upon you, preventing you from having to think about what you could +be (actively) doing instead. + +I hope it's not a lot. For else, I fear that this means that future +generations will be stuck with this communication culture, just like water +droplets can't ever play in the mountain trickle again. + +NP: [Sola Rosa](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Sola%20Rosa&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Get It Together*
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn index 58aa2c9..49e2cd5 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn @@ -49,15 +49,15 @@ The decision just seems like a horrible move: - network access is becoming more and more ubiquitous, but there will still be outages. Do you want to depend on highly complex and fallible hardware, and the skill and availability of engineers maintaining the infrastructure, just - to be able to access, use, and amnipulate *your* data when you want to? + to be able to access, use, and manipulate *your* data when you want to? I am aware that we're talking about the default Ubuntu installation, and that users who want will still be able to install local applications to replace the -network-based ones. However, Ubuntu's market position is in part a result of -making decisions for users (who didn't want to select one among 30 -applications for a job). As such, the decision that was made for the upcoming -Ubuntu release is likely going to be accepted unchallenged by most of their -users. +network-based ones. However, Ubuntu's market position is, I think, largely a +result of making selection decisions for users (who didn't want to choose one +of 30 software packages for a task). As such, the decision that was made for +the upcoming Ubuntu release is likely going to be accepted unchallenged by +most of their users. I consider this irresponsible, and probably not in the interest of their users. But it's likely that there's a direct financial benefit for Ubuntu (or
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..58aa2c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.06:ubuntu-to-enforce-short-sighted-decision-on-net-book-users.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,65 @@ +[[!meta title="Ubuntu to enforce short-sighted decision on net book users"]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian planet-lca ubuntu google netbooks rant cloud +security privacy draft]] + +Here is another in my list of growing reasons why I think Ubuntu is going bad: +[net books won't have OpenOffice installed +anymore](http://digitizor.com/2010/02/05/openoffice-dropped-from-ubuntu-netbook-edition-10-04/). +Instead, documents shall open with Google Docs in the future. + +There are of course arguments in favour of this: we are talking about *net* +books, so it seems sensible to make use of "the cloud" to be able to keep the +requirements on local resources low. Also, network-based applications open up +unprecedent possibilities for collaboration, and Google has unquestionably +created some smart products. + +However, despite all the hype, I think people are failing to see beyond the +initial excitement. I fear that there'll be many instances of "oh had I known +better" in the future. And Ubuntu is basically suggesting — even forcing you — +to go along (if you have a net book that is). I wonder if they asked their +users. + +The decision just seems like a horrible move: + +- there is no physical security in the cloud, the only layer protecting your + data is a password. This can be quite fatal, as exemplified by [the case of + Twitter](http://www.eweekeurope.co.uk/comment/twitter-s-google-docs-hack---a-warning-for-cloud-app-users-1423). + +- it sounds a bit feeble, but who can guarantee that the data will be + available for as long as you need them? The likelihood of Google going down + is small, but I consider the likelihood of Google abusing its position (and + the dependence it creates/advocates) to be on the rise. Maybe Sergej and his + moral commitments can keep the company on track for a while, but what + happens when the founders finally pass on the hat? Recall that the company + is already run by Eric Schmidt, who believes that [privacy is not something + people should rely + on](http://www.networkworld.com/news/2009/121109-googles-schmidt-roasted-for-privacy.html), + and money making desires, and greed, don't mix well with idealist promises + and consumer interests. + +- while we're on privacy and trust issues, are you just going to believe + Google won't ever use these data in ways you wouldn't want them to? Keep in + mind that once something's out in the cloud, you cannot purge it anymore as + it might linger on backup media forever. Currently, Google just (makes money + while it) serves you advertising that is likely to be more interesting to + you, because it is selected based on the context you provide. This seems + like something you want, but which of the users knows what else is planned, + or already going on? + +- network access is becoming more and more ubiquitous, but there will still be + outages. Do you want to depend on highly complex and fallible hardware, and + the skill and availability of engineers maintaining the infrastructure, just + to be able to access, use, and amnipulate *your* data when you want to? + +I am aware that we're talking about the default Ubuntu installation, and that +users who want will still be able to install local applications to replace the +network-based ones. However, Ubuntu's market position is in part a result of +making decisions for users (who didn't want to select one among 30 +applications for a job). As such, the decision that was made for the upcoming +Ubuntu release is likely going to be accepted unchallenged by most of their +users. + +I consider this irresponsible, and probably not in the interest of their +users. But it's likely that there's a direct financial benefit for Ubuntu (or +Canonical) with this move. As I said before, money just doesn't mix well with +consumer interests, but money is more exciting for some people.
reply to jelmer
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn index a0a8139..db1d8e3 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn @@ -103,3 +103,10 @@ happen and interesting! Slides and recordings of the talks will be linked from [the archived website](http://distrosummit.org/2010) when they become available (yes, the archive page does not exist yet either). + +**Update**: [Jelmer informed +me](http://jelmer.vernstok.nl/blog/archives/246-Linux.Conf.Au-2010-Day-1.html) +that the people who spoke up against Debian during and after the Launchpad +talk were not *officially* affiliated with Launchpad. It's a shame that this +negatively reflected upon Launchpad for some of the attendees (not just +myself).
typo in glyn's name
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn index 45429f8..85feb3d 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn @@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ I like to think about trickles in the mountains, amidst undisturbed nature, in (or around) which water droplets joyfully jump around. I am also a big fan of [[!wikipedia test-driven development]]. -When [Glynn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 +When [Glyn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about challenges we (as in society) face, and how open-source seems to have many leads to answers, he dropped the following gem, which spoke right to my heart:
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn index 4bc959d..45429f8 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn @@ -26,7 +26,8 @@ the [[!wikipedia desc="scrum method" Scrum (development)]] for this reason (although I wouldn't follow it down to the book). I like to think about trickles in the mountains, amidst undisturbed nature, -in (or around) which water droplets joyfully jump around. +in (or around) which water droplets joyfully jump around. I am also a big fan +of [[!wikipedia test-driven development]]. When [Glynn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn similarity index 98% rename from blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn rename to blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn index e5630f1..4bc959d 100644 --- a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-bad-at-all.mdwn @@ -1,4 +1,4 @@ -[[!meta title="Waterfalls are good"]] +[[!meta title="Waterfalls aren't bad at all"]] [[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire software-development communication programming draft]]
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e5630f1 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.02.04:waterfalls-arent-all-bad.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,74 @@ +[[!meta title="Waterfalls are good"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian twitter identica microblogging satire +software-development communication programming draft]] + +I got involved with open-source software before I learnt about software +development in a university course. Naturally, when my profs tried to teach +the [[!wikipedia waterfall model]] to me, I couldn't take them too seriously +back then. After all, requirements specification → design → implementation → +verification → maintenance is not compatible with the principle to +[[!wikipedia release early, release often]]. Furthermore, since water cannot +flow uphill, the waterfall model fails to represent development cycles, as +they naturally appear even in behemoth, ancient software nightmares. + +And yet, when embarking on a new project, I do tend to find myself first +thinking about the big picture, instead of churning out the code. I am +certainly not the best coder out there, and it might well be that I need to +learn to break down problems and get an earlier start on the implementation of +components, and maybe that would make me a better programmer. + +However, I maintain that the best way is probably *not* to avoid the +waterfalls and engage in [[!wikipedia extreme programming]], [[!wikipedia +agile software development]], or [[!wikipedia desc="pair-based approaches" +pair programming]] right away. Rather, the best approach should probably +involve a certain level of conceptualisation before code is produced. I like +the [[!wikipedia desc="scrum method" Scrum (development)]] for this reason +(although I wouldn't follow it down to the book). + +I like to think about trickles in the mountains, amidst undisturbed nature, +in (or around) which water droplets joyfully jump around. + +When [Glynn Moody](http://opendotdotdot.blogspot.com/) spoke in his [LCA2010 +keynote](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/programme/keynotes#GlynMoody) about +challenges we (as in society) face, and how open-source seems to have many +leads to answers, he dropped the following gem, which spoke right to my heart: + + Twitter is the "release early, release often" principle applied to + thinking. + +By this simile, journal articles are produced according to the waterfall +model. This may well be why they are usually outdated at the time of +publication. [[!wikipedia Microblogging]] (like Twitter), on the other hand, +is primarily used to publish stuff before it's ready, or which would never be +ready. + +The epiphany is found in between, as with software development, and has +existed for for a long time: [[!wikipedia web logs]] — web applications that +allow for easy publishing by anyone (which is a different problem not to be +discussed here). + +Since articles on those platforms usually have at least a title and a body, +they require just a little bit more thought than 140 characters of contracted +brain farts, spilled into the world faster than it takes one to stand up, +stretch, and sit down again. + +If you're "following" people on one of those microblogging platforms, I +challenge you to spend the weekend offline and when the urge hits, ask +yourself whether you are actually missing something. I mean *really missing* +something, and by that I mean anything other than the cozy buzz and hum of +entertainment washed upon you to prevent you from having to think about what +you could actually be doing instead. If you feel left out or excluded from +your group of friends, twitch, or just can't do it, consider whether you're a +serious addict. + +Can you even still define your circle of friends? Do they respond to other +contact? + +With that, I'll archive the figure of speech I've been known to use +occasionally: "how should I know what I think if I haven't yet heard what I +said." + +Instead, I'll think about the difference between firefighters with hoses, and +a group of people trying to put out a fire with water pistols. + +NP: [Sola Rosa](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Sola%20Rosa&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Get It Together*
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn index eb270cf..ec58b7e 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -3,5 +3,6 @@ I'm the Debian maintainer of [cracklib2](http://packages.qa.debian.org/c/crackli Jan Dittberner -I've updated the information at (https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775) and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. +I've updated the information at [LP.net](https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775) and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. + [sex drugs and rock and roll and love](http://daniel.hahler.de/)
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn index 22ca58c..eb270cf 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -3,5 +3,5 @@ I'm the Debian maintainer of [cracklib2](http://packages.qa.debian.org/c/crackli Jan Dittberner -I've updated the information at https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775 and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. +I've updated the information at (https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775) and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. [sex drugs and rock and roll and love](http://daniel.hahler.de/)
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn index 0f0e7cb..22ca58c 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -4,4 +4,4 @@ Jan Dittberner I've updated the information at https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775 and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. -http://daniel.hahler.de/ +[sex drugs and rock and roll and love](http://daniel.hahler.de/)
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn index 3134960..0f0e7cb 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -1,3 +1,7 @@ I'm the Debian maintainer of [cracklib2](http://packages.qa.debian.org/c/cracklib2.html), which checks passwords against installed dictionary files. There is a [libpam-cracklib](http://packages.debian.org/sid/libpam-cracklib) module using this library. For me it looks like parts of passwdqc do something similar. What do you think about adding cracklib support to passwdqc? Jan Dittberner + + +I've updated the information at https://bugs.launchpad.net/debian/+source/libpam-heimdal/+bug/314775 and would suggest that you register at launchpad.net after all - would make integration of Ubuntu changes/feedback into Debian easier.. +http://daniel.hahler.de/
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn index cb928f8..3134960 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -1 +1,3 @@ -I'm the Debian maintainer of cracklib2, which checks passwords against installed dictionary files. There is a libpam-cracklib module using this library. For me it looks like parts of passwdqc do something similar. What do you think about adding cracklib support to passwdqc? +I'm the Debian maintainer of [cracklib2](http://packages.qa.debian.org/c/cracklib2.html), which checks passwords against installed dictionary files. There is a [libpam-cracklib](http://packages.debian.org/sid/libpam-cracklib) module using this library. For me it looks like parts of passwdqc do something similar. What do you think about adding cracklib support to passwdqc? + +Jan Dittberner
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cb928f8 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +I'm the Debian maintainer of cracklib2, which checks passwords against installed dictionary files. There is a libpam-cracklib module using this library. For me it looks like parts of passwdqc do something similar. What do you think about adding cracklib support to passwdqc?
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ef25a16 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:adopted-passwdqc.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,52 @@ +[[!meta title="Adopted passwdqc"]] +[[!tag blog planet-debian passwdqc]] + +[Tollef](http://err.no/personal/blog/) forced me to take over [[!debpkg +libpam-passwdqc]] after I had reported [[!debbug 517967]]. + +[passwdqc](http://www.openwall.com/passwdqc/) is a toolset that can be used to +enforce password strength policies at exactly the right place: there's a PAM +module, and with the next version, you can also use a library and command-line +tools — read on below. The toolset gives administrators flexibility in +defining the minimum password length based on the number of character classes +a user tries to use. It also includes [[!debpkg libpam-cracklib]] +functionality and prevents the use of trivial passwords. + +I appreciate this functionality, so I had little choice but to make the best +out of it: + +- I + [uploaded](http://packages.qa.debian.org/p/pam-passwdqc/news/20100128T013242Z.html) + `libpam-passwdqc` 1.0.5-1 to unstable, fixing a few bugs on the way, and + bringing the packaging up to speed. + +- I wrote a message to upstream introducing myself and was happy when I got an + almost immediate response from two developers, suggesting that development + was thriving. Yay! + +- Having been pointed to the [upstream CVS-Git + clone](http://git.altlinux.org/people/ldv/packages/?p=passwdqc.git;a=shortlog;h=Owl), + I based [the + packaging](http://git.debian.org/?p=collab-maint/passwdqc.git) off the + repository, rather than the tarballs. This required me to juggle directories + a bit, as well as to repack the tarballs. Oh well. + +- Next, I fixed [[!debbug 517967 desc="the bug I reported"]], and now + `libpam-passwdqc` can be installed and configured in a jiffy, thanks to + [Steve Langasek](https://wiki.ubuntu.com/SteveLangasek)'s impressive work on + [pam-auth-update](http://lists.debian.org/debian-devel/2009/03/msg00003.html). + Someone also reported this feature request as + [LP#314775](https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/pam-passwdqc/+bug/314775), + but I don't use Launchpad, so someone else will have to triage it there. + +- Finally, I imported the latest upstream work into the repository, which had + me change the source package name. The benefit of version 1.1.4 — in + addition to improvements and bugs fixed — is that the functionality is now + also available through client programs in the [[!debpkg passwdqc]] package, + as well as in an [[!debpkg libpasswdqc-dev desc="independent C library"]]. + Due to the new packages, the upload is currently waiting in the [Debian NEW + queue](http://ftp-master.debian.org/new.html), so hold your horses for a few + days. + +[Debhelper 7](http://kitenet.net/~joey/code/debhelper/) is really nice. +Thanks, Joey.
add thanks
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn index 1c4c363..a0a8139 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn @@ -97,6 +97,9 @@ attendants declared themselves Debian or Ubuntu users, and so there weren't many other distros around. Another might be that I still haven't spread the word enough. Let's hope to do better next year! +Thanks to all the speakers. We may have organised the day, but you made it +happen and interesting! + Slides and recordings of the talks will be linked from [the archived website](http://distrosummit.org/2010) when they become available (yes, the archive page does not exist yet either).
publish
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn similarity index 95% rename from blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn rename to blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn index 944910c..1c4c363 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.28:distrosummit-2010.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ [[!meta title="DistroSummit 2010"]] -[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian launchpad linux-com vcs-pkg draft]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian launchpad linux-com vcs-pkg]] [Linux.conf.au 2010](http://lca2010.org.nz) has come to an end and I am looking back at an intense week of conferencing. A big shout out to the @@ -90,11 +90,13 @@ if you want to collaborate with others and not go down". There was a slight aura of arrogance in their comments which tainted my experience of the otherwise constructive discussions of the day. -Overall I enjoyed the day. Debian and Ubuntu made up the vast majority of +Overall I had a great time. Debian and Ubuntu made up the vast majority of attendants, with only a handful of representatives from other distros present. I wonder why that would be. One reason might be that around 70% of LCA attendants declared themselves Debian or Ubuntu users, and so there weren't many other distros around. Another might be that I still haven't spread the word enough. Let's hope to do better next year! -Slides and recordings of the talks forthcoming. Watch this space. +Slides and recordings of the talks will be linked from [the archived +website](http://distrosummit.org/2010) when they become available (yes, the +archive page does not exist yet either).
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.25:vodafone-intransparency.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.25:vodafone-intransparency.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..757e6ac --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.01.25:vodafone-intransparency.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,73 @@ +[[!meta title="Vodafone intransparency"]] +[[!tag blog vodafone rant planet-lca nz planet-debian cellphones +customer-experience]] + +Coming to New Zealand for an extended period of time, I figured it would make +sense to purchase a prepay mobile plan to make it easier to mix with locals. +Not knowing better, I went with [Vodafone](http://vodafone.co.nz), which I +whole-heartedly regret: their website is a massive pain in the ass, their +price plans [completely over the +top](http://www.comcom.govt.nz/MediaCentre/MediaReleases/200910/commercecommissionreporthighlights.aspx), +and their customer service representative incompetent and unfriendly. + +My latest experience eclipsed all previous encounters, and makes me want to +tell you about it: + +Between all the obscure add-ons Vodafone threw at me when I bought this SIM +card, two weeks ago I couldn't figure out how my balance had decreased from +$30 to $0 when I rarely ever made calls. + +I wrote an e-mail to their customer service hotline, and it took them a week +to get back to me, with the following text: + +> Due to being a Prepay Customer, unfortunately usage details are not +> available as per terms and conditions. I have although checked your usage +> and can confirm that all charges are correct. + +Obviously, I wasn't going to accept this claim of omniscience, so when last +weekend, $20 disappeared over the course of a day, that was the catalyst for +me to reopen the ticket and reply along the lines of: + +> Only I know when I used my phone and thus only I can determine whether the +> charges are correct. Please show the full records to me, or else … + +This seemed to convince the representative, and 8 messages and 11 days after +my initial request, I was told I could request the records at $5/30 records. +Yes, you read that right: they wanted to charge me to view the records. I thus +replied: + +> I am NOT willing to pay for that. If you are unable to comply with my desire +> for transparency, then I shall terminate the contract and make sure to +> inform the media as well as the consumer institute of this conduct. As +> stated previously, I shall also consult with a lawyer. Charging consumers to +> view data that is obviously available is a strong indication that you do not +> want me to see it. I can't imaging why this would be the case other than the +> data being inconsistent with reality. + +That worked, and I finally got an Excel sheet with my usage data, which +allowed me to track down the depletion of my account: to lure customers in, +they promise free calls to other Vodafone numbers for the first four weekends. +There are three problems with that though: + +1. Having purchased my card on Saturday afternoon, I was annoyed to find out + that the remaining 34 hours of that weekend would be counted as a whole + weekend. + +2. They don't provide a way by which to find out whether a given number + actually belongs to Vodafone or not. The 021 prefix is not enough of an + indication. + +3. They don't actually tell you anywhere but the aforementioned horrific + website that the addon has expired. + +So thanks, Vodafone. You've lost a customer, who should have gone with +[2degrees](http://2degreesmobile.co.nz) in the first place, who have much +[lower rates](http://www.droptherate.co.nz/), even though their data coverage +doesn't seem as good. I don't need data anyway. + +I'll still insist on Vodafone providing the data in a Free format. + +You can find more information about NZ mobile phone providers on the [LCA2010 +wiki page](http://www.lca2010.org.nz/wiki/Mobile\_phones). + +NP: [Age Pryor](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Age%20Pryor&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Shank's Pony*
update
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn index 275f1e7..944910c 100644 --- a/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn +++ b/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn @@ -54,13 +54,14 @@ package maintenance** — e.g. how to get [[!wikipedia APT]] to handle [[!wikipedia Python]] packages. The ensuing discussion was interesting, and we carried it over to the next slot, because Scott, the next speaker, was stuck in traffic. To summarise briefly: scripting languages have a lot of -[[!wikipedia NIH]]-style solutions because it works for them, but these are a -nightmare to distro packagers. One symptom of the status quo is that complex -software packages like [Zimbra](http://zimbra.com) are forced to distribute -all required components in their installation packages, which make distro -packaging, quality assurance, and security support even harder. I don't think -we found a solution, other than the need for further standardisation (like the -LSB), but the road seems to be a long and windy one. +[[!wikipedia desc="NIH" Not\_Invented\_Here]]-style solutions because it works +for them, but these are a nightmare to distro packagers. One symptom of the +status quo is that complex software packages like [Zimbra](http://zimbra.com) +are forced to distribute all required components in their installation +packages, which make distro packaging, quality assurance, and security support +even harder. I don't think we found a solution, other than the need for +further standardisation (like the LSB), but the road seems to be a long and +windy one. **Laszlo Peter** introduced the audience to **SourceJuicer**, a new build system used by [OpenSolaris](http://opensolaris.org). The idea is that
new post
diff --git a/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn b/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..275f1e7 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2010.01.25:distrosummit-2010.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,99 @@ +[[!meta title="DistroSummit 2010"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian launchpad linux-com vcs-pkg draft]] + +[Linux.conf.au 2010](http://lca2010.org.nz) has come to an end and I am +looking back at an intense week of conferencing. A big shout out to the +organisers for their excellent work. I think LCA (as well as DebConf) just +keeps getting better every year. This does not at all discredit previous +organisers, because they were the best at their times and then passed on the +wisdom and experience to help make it even better in the following year. + +The week started off with the [DistroSummit](http://distrosummit.org), which +Fabio and I organised. Slides are forthcoming, as I failed to get them off the +speakers right after their talks — it's interesting how stress levels and +adrenaline can cause one to forget the most obvious things. This is where +experience comes in. I'll be there again next year, I hope, to do things +better. + +The theme of the day was cross-distro collaboration, and we started the day a +little bit on the Debian-side with **Lucas Nussbaum** telling us about +**quality assurance in Debian**, alongside an overview of available resources. +We hoped to give people from other distros pointers, and solicit feedback that +would enable us to tie quality assurance closer together. + +Next up was **Bdale Garbee** who talked about the **status of the [Linux Standard +Base](http://www.linuxbase.org/)**. While I am really interested in such +standardisation efforts, I realised during his talks that I had considerable +difficulties paying attention because as organiser of the conference, I had +all sorts of other things occupying my thoughts. + +I proceeded to tell the audience — the room was mostly filled throughout the +day with an estimated 40–50 folks, and I'd say about half of them stayed +throughout, while the other half came in and left the room between talks. I +could not get the projector to work with my laptop after the upgrade to +[Kernel Mode +Setting](http://kernelnewbies.org/Linux\_2\_6\_29#head-e1bab8dc862e3b477cc38d87e8ddc779a66509d1), +and thus used the whiteboard to give a brief introduction to +[vcs-pkg.org](http://vcs-pkg.org), talk about the current state of affairs, +summarise the trends in discussions around patch management and collaboration, +give an outlook of what's up next, and solicit some discussion. + +Sadly, just like during Bdale's talk, I found myself worrying over the +organisation of the day, rather than actually taking in most of the +discussion. Fortunately, +[others](http://mdzlog.alcor.net/2010/01/18/linux-conf-au-2010-day-1-morning/) +[have](http://blog.dustinkirkland.com/2010/01/lca2010-day-1-wellington-new-zealand.html) +[written](http://ycros.org/geek/lca/lca2010/linux/nz/2010/01/18/lca-2010-day-one/) +about the most important points, so I defer to them. + +**Michael Homer** then told us about [GoboLinux](http://gobolinux.org)'s +[Aliens](http://mwh.geek.nz/2009/07/23/an-overview-of-systemaliens/) system, +which is a way to **integrate domain-specific packages with distro-specific +package maintenance** — e.g. how to get [[!wikipedia APT]] to handle +[[!wikipedia CPAN]] directly, or how to let [[!wikipedia YUM]] manage +[[!wikipedia Python]] packages. The ensuing discussion was interesting, and we +carried it over to the next slot, because Scott, the next speaker, was stuck +in traffic. To summarise briefly: scripting languages have a lot of +[[!wikipedia NIH]]-style solutions because it works for them, but these are a +nightmare to distro packagers. One symptom of the status quo is that complex +software packages like [Zimbra](http://zimbra.com) are forced to distribute +all required components in their installation packages, which make distro +packaging, quality assurance, and security support even harder. I don't think +we found a solution, other than the need for further standardisation (like the +LSB), but the road seems to be a long and windy one. + +**Laszlo Peter** introduced the audience to **SourceJuicer**, a new build +system used by [OpenSolaris](http://opensolaris.org). The idea is that +contributors submit packages via a web interface, kicking off a workflow +incorporating discussion and vetting, and only after changes have been +signed-off are packages forwarded to auto-builders and eventually end up in +the package repository. This is very similar to +[[upload ideas|2005.08.11:rcs-uploads]] I've had a while ago, which I've +started to (finally) implement. Unfortunately, SourceJuicer seems very +specific to OpenSolaris, as well as non-modular, so that I probably won't be +able to reuse e.g. the web interface on top of a Debian-specific package +builder. + +After the break, **Dustin Kirkland** stepped up to tell us about his user +experience of [Launchpad](http://launchpad.net). Unfortunately, I found his +talk a bit too enthusiastic. Launchpad undoubtedly has some very cool features +and ideas, but it's just one of the available solutions. + +The dicussion of Launchpad also dominated the next talk, in which **Lucas +Nussbaum** told us about the **Debian-Ubuntu relationship**. While his +presentation showed that the relationship was improving (Matt Zimmerman made +the point that there are rather many relationships, rather than one +relationship), I was a bit disturbed by the comments of Launchpad developers +in the room, ranging from "Debian is declining anyway" to "Just use Launchpad +if you want to collaborate with others and not go down". There was a slight +aura of arrogance in their comments which tainted my experience of the +otherwise constructive discussions of the day. + +Overall I enjoyed the day. Debian and Ubuntu made up the vast majority of +attendants, with only a handful of representatives from other distros present. +I wonder why that would be. One reason might be that around 70% of LCA +attendants declared themselves Debian or Ubuntu users, and so there weren't +many other distros around. Another might be that I still haven't spread the +word enough. Let's hope to do better next year! + +Slides and recordings of the talks forthcoming. Watch this space.
fix rfc link
diff --git a/docs/ipv6.mdwn b/docs/ipv6.mdwn index 1b08228..8d24902 100644 --- a/docs/ipv6.mdwn +++ b/docs/ipv6.mdwn @@ -5,12 +5,11 @@ Debian seems to be ready for IPv6 (although there are still some problems). In less than a day, I put a few of my machines online and joined the Internet of the future. In the following, I'd like to share with you how I did it. -[[!template id=notice text=""" -Throughout this document, I use IPv6 addresses out of the `2001:db8::/32` -subnet, which is \[[!rfc 3849 desc="reserved for documentation purposes"]]. You -will need to use your own prefix(es) when running the command. Similarly, I -use `10.111.222.33` as example IPv4 address of the PoP endpoint, which you -will need to alter. """]] +\[[!template id=notice text=""" Throughout this document, I use IPv6 addresses +out of the `2001:db8::/32` subnet, which is [reserved for documentation +purposes](http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc3849.txt). You will need to use your own +prefix(es) when running the command. Similarly, I use `10.111.222.33` as +example IPv4 address of the PoP endpoint, which you will need to alter. """]] # Configuring the packet filter
fix link
diff --git a/docs/ipv6.mdwn b/docs/ipv6.mdwn index 5d1d199..1b08228 100644 --- a/docs/ipv6.mdwn +++ b/docs/ipv6.mdwn @@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ the future. In the following, I'd like to share with you how I did it. [[!template id=notice text=""" Throughout this document, I use IPv6 addresses out of the `2001:db8::/32` -subnet, which is \[[!rfc desc="reserved for documentation purposes" 3849]]. You +subnet, which is [[!rfc 3849 desc="reserved for documentation purposes"]]. You will need to use your own prefix(es) when running the command. Similarly, I use `10.111.222.33` as example IPv4 address of the PoP endpoint, which you will need to alter. """]]
Revert "web commit by
http://ralphharrison.myopenid.com/"
This reverts commit f5c34d3cdda34011ec3de181f68a7db801010d35, which
really just looks like linkspam.
This reverts commit f5c34d3cdda34011ec3de181f68a7db801010d35, which
really just looks like linkspam.
diff --git a/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn index 02642ed..d5aee7a 100644 --- a/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn @@ -1,3 +1 @@ Congratulations Dr Krafft! -- [Jon](http://jmtd.net/) - -Congratulations on successfully defending your Ph.D. Dr. Martin, I'm pretty sure you had a good [research paper](http://www.superiorpapers.com/). More power.
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn index df389fb..fe25891 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn @@ -1,3 +1,3 @@ -I think cellphonegotchi is a cool new type of tamagotchi, and I'm pretty sure that it'll be a new hit. According to [research papers](http://www.superiorpapers.com/) about tamagotchi, its popularity has went to new heights opening doors for game makers and animators to make a story about tamagotchi. +I think cellphonegotchi is a cool new type of tamagotchi, and I'm pretty sure that it'll be a new hit. According to wikipidea, its popularity has went to new heights opening doors for game makers and animators to make a story about tamagotchi. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamagotchi
diff --git a/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn index d5aee7a..02642ed 100644 --- a/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.10.30:just-in-case-i-forget/discussion.mdwn @@ -1 +1,3 @@ Congratulations Dr Krafft! -- [Jon](http://jmtd.net/) + +Congratulations on successfully defending your Ph.D. Dr. Martin, I'm pretty sure you had a good [research paper](http://www.superiorpapers.com/). More power.
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..df389fb --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +I think cellphonegotchi is a cool new type of tamagotchi, and I'm pretty sure that it'll be a new hit. According to [research papers](http://www.superiorpapers.com/) about tamagotchi, its popularity has went to new heights opening doors for game makers and animators to make a story about tamagotchi. + +http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamagotchi
reply
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn index dc7204b..2f9ba85 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn @@ -1 +1,6 @@ -It seems like yesterday that Linode got their Xen out of beta! Can we get a link to the end of life announcement? I only see that Red Hat is dropping. http://www.xen.org/ seems quite active. +It seems like yesterday that Linode got their Xen out of beta! Can we get a +link to the end of life announcement? I only see that Red Hat is dropping. +http://www.xen.org/ seems quite active. + +> No link, but the fact that Xen is still not in the mainline kernel is a good +> indication that it won't last. Just my two cents.
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dc7204b --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6/discussion.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +It seems like yesterday that Linode got their Xen out of beta! Can we get a link to the end of life announcement? I only see that Red Hat is dropping. http://www.xen.org/ seems quite active.
new post
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f07a0b6 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2009.12.18:kvm-hosting-and-native-ipv6.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +[[!meta title="KVM hosting and native IPv6"]] +[[!tag blog bytemark kvm ipv6 planet-debian]] + +After several months of not-too-intensive searching for a +[KVM](http://www.linux-kvm.org/)-hoster with native [[!wikipedia IPv6]] +connectivity, [Steve](http://www.steve.org.uk/) hooked me up with a +[[!wikipedia desc=VPS Virtual_private_server]] at +[Bytemark](http://www.bytemark.co.uk/), and I am very pleased. In addition to +a properly virtualised KVM instance, I got access to a console server, which +allows me to reset the machine, switch kernels, and log in "locally". It's +exactly what I wanted, but it was hard to find, as everyone else seems to +offer only [[!wikipedia Xen]] or [[!wikipedia Vservers]], both of which are +nearing end-of-life. + +Thanks Steve, and Bytemark. + +NP: [Porcupine Tree](http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?SQL=Porcupine%20Tree&P=amg&OPT1=1): *Up the Downstair*
new post
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.13:distro-summit-2010-schedule-finalised.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.13:distro-summit-2010-schedule-finalised.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5a110eb --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2009.12.13:distro-summit-2010-schedule-finalised.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +[[!meta title="Distro Summit 2010: schedule finalised"]] +[[!tag blog planet-lca planet-debian distrosummit vcs-pkg distributions]] + +It took us a bit longer than planned, but we are happy to announce the +schedule for the [Distro Summit](http://distrosummit.org) at the upcoming +[LCA2010](http://lca2010.org.nz) conference. We focused on cross-distro +aspects, and we hope that you are as excited as we are about the result. + +The schedule is displayed on the [Distro Summit +homepage](http://distrosummit.org) and I best refrain from duplicating it +here.
publish
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn similarity index 99% rename from blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn rename to blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn index 5d64618..a81852b 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.08:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ [[!meta title="The Tamagotchi in your pocket"]] -[[!tag blog culture tamagotchis cellphonegotchis satire cellphones draft]] +[[!tag blog culture tamagotchis cellphonegotchis satire cellphones]] What Mako previously called [the computer in his pocket](http://mako.cc/copyrighteous/20091017-00) was described more
update
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn index b0d0eea..285eabd 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn @@ -18,6 +18,9 @@ communication between five types of users: * and a bunch of Unix folks using proper clients. +To make matters worse: there is no common provider or server infrastructure, +so the solution must work across providers and mailboxes. + # Requirements * Human error should be anticipated and prevented.
update
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn index c125652..5d64618 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.06:the-tamagotchi-in-your-pocket.mdwn @@ -12,13 +12,13 @@ adequately last week by my brother: the cell phone in your pocket is the new - The cellphonegotchi lets you play with it. This does not have to involve an interactive game, often patrons are entertained by senseless interaction - with entity. + with the entity. - If you are not playing with the cellphonegotchi, it will demand your attention, shaking vigorously if it is being neglected. Most cellphonegotchis also quickly employ auditory cues to make sure everyone in the vicinity knows how badly you are treating it. Some of these auditory - cues are about as painful as a child's cries of pain at 4am. + cues are about as unbearable as a child's cries of pain at 4am. - A cellphonegotchi can communicate with other cellphonegotchis, using a variety of means. Some of these communications are on behalf of the patron,
add s/mime, publish
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn index 3e3ed72..b0d0eea 100644 --- a/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn +++ b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ [[!meta title="Securing e-mail communication across clients/OSs"]] [[!tag blog lazyweb email security gpg pgp planet-debian windows outlook thunderbird webmail roundcube squirrelmail mutt mime job-offer gpgol gpgrelay -geam wingeam draft]] +geam wingeam]] Dear lazyweb: I am in a dreadful situation! I need to secure e-mail communication between five types of users: @@ -40,6 +40,9 @@ communication between five types of users: * Incoming mail *should* be automatically and seamlessly decrypted/verified, and the user *must* be alerted if the verification fails. +Ideally, the solution will be open-source. However, if proprietary software +performs better, then we will gladly use that where required. + # Previous attempts So far, we've tried (and were let down by) @@ -47,6 +50,10 @@ So far, we've tried (and were let down by) * [GpgOL](http://www.g10code.com/p-gpgol.html), which has very irky and brittle integration with Outlook and can only do inline signing/encryption. +* [[!wikipedia S/MIME]], which seems supported by all involved clients, but + Outlook does not really allow you to specify policies. Encryption seems to + be opportunistic at best, which is not enough. + * [GPGrelay](http://sites.inka.de/tesla/gpgrelay.html), which is promising because transparent, but apparently messes with MIME, and I am unsure whether it can fit between Outlook and Exchange. I have yet to run real
new post
diff --git a/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3e3ed72 --- /dev/null +++ b/blog/2009.12.07:securing-e-mail-communication-across-clients-oss.mdwn @@ -0,0 +1,66 @@ +[[!meta title="Securing e-mail communication across clients/OSs"]] +[[!tag blog lazyweb email security gpg pgp planet-debian windows outlook +thunderbird webmail roundcube squirrelmail mutt mime job-offer gpgol gpgrelay +geam wingeam draft]] + +Dear lazyweb: I am in a dreadful situation! I need to secure e-mail +communication between five types of users: + +* [[!wikipedia Outlook 2003]] users who receive their mail by [[!wikipedia + POP3]] from [[!wikipedia desc=Exchange Microsoft\_Exchange\_Server]], + +* [Thunderbird](http://mozilla.org/thunderbird) users downloading mail with POP3, + +* [[!wikipedia Apple Mail]] users downloading mail with POP3, + +* Webmail users ([Squirrelmail](http://squirrelmail.org) and + [Roundcube](http://roundcube.net)), + +* and a bunch of Unix folks using proper clients. + +# Requirements + +* Human error should be anticipated and prevented. + +* Mail between all parties *must* be encrypted (and signed) automatically. If + encryption is not possible, the mail *must not* be sent. This includes the + situation where not all mail recipients' keys are known; + +* Ideally, one can define rules (using wildcards or regular expressions) to + enforce certain policies. + +* Mail to other parties *may* be signed, and it would be good to be able to + turn this on and off by default; + +* The [[!rfc 2045 desc="MIME standard"]] should be employed so that the mail + body is not altered, and attachments can be seamlessly encrypted too. + Existing MIME parts should be encapsulated as children of a new multipart + tree; + +* Incoming mail *should* be automatically and seamlessly decrypted/verified, + and the user *must* be alerted if the verification fails. + +# Previous attempts + +So far, we've tried (and were let down by) + +* [GpgOL](http://www.g10code.com/p-gpgol.html), which has very irky and + brittle integration with Outlook and can only do inline signing/encryption. + +* [GPGrelay](http://sites.inka.de/tesla/gpgrelay.html), which is promising + because transparent, but apparently messes with MIME, and I am unsure + whether it can fit between Outlook and Exchange. I have yet to run real + tests though. If you are a GPGrelay user, or you'd like to try it (it's + Windows-only), please [get in touch](mailto:gpgrelay@pobox.madduck.net). + +* [WinGEAM](http://lists.gnupg.org/pipermail/gnupg-users/2003-February/017165.html), + but that apparently no longer exists, and neither is the underlying + [GEAM](http://www.g10code.com/p-geam.html). + +# Help! + +Does anyone have proper suggestions over what to use? + +In fact, if you are interested in devising a solution, or even deploying it, +there's money to pay you for those services. [Write +in](mailto:mail-encryption@pobox.madduck.net) if you are interested.
