tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83404342024-03-13T05:08:16.276-05:00Pete's NotebookRambling thoughts about D&D, Linux, and other things...Now featuring...College Stuff! Go Bruins!Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-82358197252742533222024-02-25T21:43:00.003-06:002024-02-25T21:43:18.256-06:00BSIT380 - Week 12 Post - Happy Trails to You, until we meet again.<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">BSIT 380 - System Hardening and Network Risk Management</span></strong></span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">As my current class ends, I'd like to thank whoever took the time to read all of my blog posts that, although required for the class, were still enjoyable to research and write. The name of the class is "System Hardening and Network Risk Management", which explains all of the cybersecurity and server references throughout the blog posts. I chose to write on a variety of topics, mostly revolving around the class topics for that particular week. Internet searches with Google.com and Bing.com provided most of the source material for my posts. It also helped that I have been working in the Information Technology field for the past 40 years. I hope this Blog's content was helpful to any information security professional who happens to stumble across it in my little corner of the internet. And here is a free "lesson learned" that I figured out while doing this: use Grammarly.com to write your blog posts. Let it teach you correct spelling and grammar. First impressions count. <br /></span></span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-63092424020748133212024-02-24T22:41:00.001-06:002024-02-24T22:41:06.506-06:00BSIT 380 - Week 11 Posting - What is an Incident Response?<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">In cybersecurity, an "incident response" refers to the organized approach to addressing and managing the aftermath of a security breach or cyberattack, also known as a security incident. The goal is to handle the situation in a way that limits damage and reduces recovery time and costs. An effective incident response plan is critical to any organization's cybersecurity strategy and includes the elements of preparation, identification, containment, eradication, and recovery.<br /><br /><b>Preparation </b>is the foundation of incident response. It involves setting up an incident response team, defining their roles and responsibilities, and developing a response plan. <b>Identification </b>consists of detecting and determining whether a cybersecurity event is a security incident, which requires practical monitoring tools and awareness to recognize signs of a potential breach, such as unusual system behavior, alerts from security tools, or reports of suspicious activity. Once an incident is confirmed, the immediate goal is <b>containment</b>, limiting its scope and preventing further damage. After containment, the next step is to find and <b>eradicate</b> the incident's root cause, which may involve removing malware, deactivating breached user accounts, or fixing vulnerabilities. In <b>recovery</b>, affected systems are restored and returned to regular operation. This process must be carefully managed to avoid reintroducing the threat. It often includes validating systems functioning normally and monitoring for any signs of compromise.<br /><br />After the incident is resolved, conducting a post-incident review is crucial, analyzing what happened, how it was handled, what worked well, and what could be improved. The insights strengthen the incident response plan and overall security posture. </span><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-5531530076313362442024-02-16T20:12:00.001-06:002024-02-18T20:15:02.021-06:00BSIT380 - Week 10 Post - Automating data enrichment at scale<p style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">In the fast-paced realm of cybersecurity, </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">automating data enrichment at scale</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is a game-changer. Data enrichment is the process of enhancing raw data with additional context and information, transforming it into a more meaningful, actionable form. In cybersecurity, this means taking vast amounts of data from diverse sources—like system logs, network traffic, security device outputs, and external threat intelligence—and augmenting it with extra layers of detail. The objective is clear: to provide deeper insights and a clearer understanding of the cyber threats lurking in the data. However, given the data's sheer volume and complexity, manually sifting through it is akin to finding a needle in a haystack. This is where automation steps in, leveraging advanced tools and technologies to process and analyze this data efficiently, ensuring that the valuable nuggets of insight are found and utilized effectively and timely.</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Automating data enrichment involves several sophisticated techniques. First, it employs big data technologies like Hadoop or Spark, which can handle and process large datasets at high speeds. Machine learning and artificial intelligence play a pivotal role, too, in identifying patterns and anomalies that might indicate potential security threats—a task too intricate and vast for human analysts to perform consistently and accurately. Another critical aspect is the integration of real-time threat intelligence. This involves enriching internal data with up-to-date information about emerging threats from around the globe, adding crucial context, and aiding in quickly identifying potential risks. All of this is wrapped up in an environment that emphasizes scalability and flexibility, often leveraging cloud-based solutions to adapt to the ever-changing volume and nature of data. Ultimately, automating data enrichment in cybersecurity isn't just about handling data more efficiently; it's about staying one step ahead in a world where cyber threats evolve just as quickly as the technology we use to combat them.</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Reference:</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Nachaj, A. (2024, January 29). </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Data enrichment: The holy grail of the Cybersecurity Industry</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. Metron Security Blogs. https://hub.metronlabs.com/data-enrichment-the-holy-grail-of-the-cybersecurity-industry/</span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-88218618022507769462024-02-11T13:22:00.005-06:002024-02-11T13:22:23.922-06:00BSIT380 - Week 9 Post - Fortifying Your Server Against Brute-Force Attacks: Essential Strategies<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hello, computer security nerds! Today, I'm talking about protecting your servers against brute-force attacks. These persistent threats can compromise your server's security. Here are some strategies to bolster your server's defenses:<br /><br /><b>1. Crafting a robust Password Policy</b><br />A robust password is your first line of defense. Opt for lengthy and complex passwords that mix various character types. The goal is to make them difficult to guess but still memorable. Avoid dictionary words, personal info, and recycled passwords – remember, creativity is vital. If possible, use lengthy passphrases which are easier to remember. And stop writing down your passwords unless you're keeping your notebook in a locked security container of some type...<br /><br /><b>2. Login Attempt Limitations</b><br />Limiting failed login attempts is crucial. Implement a system that blocks IP addresses after several unsuccessful tries. However, be cautious – you don't want to lock out legitimate users accidentally.<br /><br /><b>3. The Art of Progressive Delays</b><br />Here's an interesting twist: Use progressive delays instead of outright account lockouts. Each failed attempt increases the wait time, frustrating potential attackers and slowing down their efforts<br /><br /><b>4. CAPTCHA: More Than Annoying Squiggles</b><br />Integrating CAPTCHA challenges helps differentiate bots from humans. Although they can be a bit of a nuisance, they're incredibly effective against automated brute-force attempts<br /><br /><b>5. Two-Factor Authentication: Doubling Down on Security</b><br />Adding a second layer of security, like a code sent to a mobile device, significantly enhances your protection. It's a simple yet effective barrier against brute-force attacks.<br /><br /><b>6. Vigilant Monitoring: Keeping an Eye Out</b><br />Regularly scan your server logs. Look for patterns that suggest a brute-force attack, such as repeated failed logins from the same IP address or various addresses trying the same account.<br /><br /><b>7. Shaking Up Defaults: Ports and Usernames</b><br />Changing default ports and admin usernames can dramatically reduce the success rate of attacks. It's a small change with a significant impact – a tactic often overlooked but highly effective. Just ensure you keep excellent documentation on which ports are now in use!<br /><br /><b>8. Network-Level Guardians: Firewalls and IDS/IPS</b><br />Deploy network-level security measures like firewalls and intrusion detection systems. They're your digital sentinels, guarding against suspicious traffic.<br /><b><br />9. Keeping Software Up-to-Date: A Continuous Process</b><br />Last but not least, ensure all server software and applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches. Staying current is staying safe.<br /><br /><b>In Summary:</b><br />Combining these strategies forms a formidable defense against brute-force attacks. While no single method is completely foolproof, a layered approach significantly reduces risk. Stay vigilant, stay updated, and remember, the best defense is proactive.</span></span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-57315555962338529512024-01-31T20:42:00.004-06:002024-01-31T20:42:37.231-06:00BSIT380 - Week 8 Post - Controlling Application Execution with Whitelisting and Blacklisting<p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, controlling which applications can run on a network or a device is very important. It can be effectively managed through two contrasting approaches: application whitelisting and blacklisting.</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Application Whitelisting</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: This approach involves creating a list of authorized applications permitted to run on a system. Any software not included in this whitelist is automatically blocked. This method is highly secure as it prevents unknown or potentially harmful applications from executing. However, it requires thorough knowledge of all the necessary applications for business operations. It can be restrictive, as any new application needs explicit approval before it can be used.</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Application Blacklisting</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: In contrast, blacklisting involves creating a list of applications that are forbidden. Any application not on this blacklist is allowed to run. This method is more flexible and less resource-intensive than whitelisting, as it doesn't require a comprehensive list of all acceptable applications. However, it's less secure, as it can't block unknown threats - any new malicious software not already on the blacklist can run unhindered.</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></strong></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Best Practices</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">:</span></span></p><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Regular Updates</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: Keep the whitelist or blacklist updated with the latest application information.</span></span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">User Training</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: Educate users about the risks of unauthorized applications.</span></span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monitoring and Auditing</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: Regularly monitor application usage and audit the lists for effectiveness.</span></span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Balancing Security and Flexibility</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: Find the right balance between security (whitelisting) and flexibility (blacklisting) based on your organization's needs.</span></span></li></ul><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Conclusion</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: times; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">: Both whitelisting and blacklisting have their merits and drawbacks. While whitelisting offers a more secure environment by only allowing pre-approved applications, it can be rigid and resource-intensive. Blacklisting, while more flexible, might leave systems vulnerable to new or unknown threats. The choice between them should be based on the organization's specific requirements and risk profile. Remember, effective application control is a critical component of cybersecurity strategy and should be tailored to fit the unique needs of your network environment.</span></span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-44567806511217120642024-01-28T13:10:00.000-06:002024-01-28T13:10:04.481-06:00BSIT380 - Week 7 Post - An article about flow analysis for cybersecurity...<p style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The insightful blog entry "Flow Analytics for Cyber Situational Awareness" by Sid Faber, hosted on Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute's Insights blog, focuses on the critical role of network flow analytics in enhancing cybersecurity. Faber delves into how network flow analysis is a foundational tool for organizations to achieve cyber situational awareness, especially during high-stress times like the holiday season when data centers face surges in online activity. The ability to distinguish between a legitimate increase in business traffic and potential cyber threats like denial-of-service attacks hinges on understanding the intricate patterns of network flow. This understanding is vital for organizations to respond effectively to immediate challenges and predict and prepare for future cyber events.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Faber's article emphasizes the importance of a three-step model in achieving situation awareness in cybersecurity:</span></p><ul style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Perception or sensing of the environment</span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Comprehension of the sensed information</span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Projection of future states of the environment<br /><br /></span></li></ul><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This model, rooted in the work of Dr. Mica Endsley, is particularly relevant in the cyber domain, where understanding the flow of network traffic is crucial. Organizations can gain valuable insights into how their networks are utilized by analyzing network flow data, enabling them to detect anomalies and potential security threats. The article underscores the need for effective analytics presentation to decision-makers, ensuring that complex data is translated into actionable intelligence. This approach is about detecting threats and shaping a proactive cybersecurity strategy that aligns with the dynamic nature of the digital world. To read the full article, visit </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/flow-analytics-for-cyber-situational-awareness/" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sid Faber's blog post</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="margin-left: 1cm; text-indent: -1cm;">Faber, S. (2015, December 7). <i>Flow analytics for cyber situational awareness</i>. SEI Blog. https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/flow-analytics-for-cyber-situational-awareness/ </p><div></div><p><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-55561073307633077662024-01-21T14:37:00.003-06:002024-01-21T14:37:37.798-06:00BSIT380 - Week 6 Post - Hardware best practices for securing computers<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54is8FcZuHlSDqwsqnKXe0eK8YkmnApMWeMP0a3ZORv2OMTUVhKJJm_ZfiJMjmmjAxeRURJlCrG5L_KEzbeIrqKMY9B3iX0JSMHPz7h_WXSGxMtfTdn23Kuu-Dced9E-H012y_49TkAFdgAKV4YUNE1p48Pvz_FY_CSPDgIqhuf6jSvAgzsOZ/s1792/Cyber1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1792" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54is8FcZuHlSDqwsqnKXe0eK8YkmnApMWeMP0a3ZORv2OMTUVhKJJm_ZfiJMjmmjAxeRURJlCrG5L_KEzbeIrqKMY9B3iX0JSMHPz7h_WXSGxMtfTdn23Kuu-Dced9E-H012y_49TkAFdgAKV4YUNE1p48Pvz_FY_CSPDgIqhuf6jSvAgzsOZ/w491-h230/Cyber1.png" width="491" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The importance of hardware-based security measures in computer systems cannot be overstated, especially in an era where digital threats are increasingly sophisticated. One fundamental best practice is the use of hardware firewalls. These act as the first defense against external attacks, efficiently filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Unlike software firewalls, which can be bypassed or compromised by malware, hardware firewalls provide a more robust and less penetrable barrier. Additionally, employing physical security measures such as locking cables and secured access to computer hardware is crucial. Physical security measures are essential in environments where sensitive data is processed, as they prevent unauthorized physical access to the hardware, an often overlooked aspect of computer security.<br /><br />Equally vital is the incorporation of hardware encryption methods. Utilizing hardware for encryption, like Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and hardware security modules (HSMs), ensures that data is encrypted and decrypted in a secure, isolated environment. TPMs minimize the risk of key exposure and make it significantly more challenging for attackers to access sensitive data. Moreover, regularly updating hardware firmware is essential. Manufacturers often release firmware updates to address vulnerabilities, and neglecting these updates can expose systems to exploits. In conclusion, while software security is indispensable, complementing it with robust hardware security practices provides a comprehensive shield against a wide array of cyber threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of valuable data.</span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-77070099820470232372024-01-14T13:22:00.003-06:002024-01-14T13:22:15.844-06:00BSIT380 - Week 5 Post - Best Practices for Secure Coding: Building a Strong Defense Against Cyber Threats<p><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Introduction</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">In today's interconnected world, the importance of secure coding cannot be overstated. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and prevalent, software developers play a pivotal role in safeguarding applications and systems. Adopting best practices for secure coding is not just necessary; it's a responsibility. In this blog post, we'll delve into essential practices developers can implement to strengthen the security of their code.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thorough Input Validation</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Input validation is the first defense against common vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS). Continuously validate and sanitize user inputs to ensure they meet expected criteria. Use trusted libraries or frameworks for input validation to minimize human error.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Implement Proper Authentication and Authorization</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Authentication verifies the identity of users, while authorization determines their access levels. Use robust authentication methods like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access to only what is necessary for each user.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Secure Password Handling</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Hash passwords using strong cryptographic algorithms and add salt to defend against rainbow table attacks. Encourage users to create complex passwords and implement password policies. Avoid storing passwords in plain text or weakly encrypted forms.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Escape Output Data</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">When rendering data in web pages or APIs, always escape user-generated content to prevent XSS attacks. Escaping ensures that special characters are correctly encoded, making them impossible to execute as code.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Protect Against SQL Injection</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Use parameterized queries or prepared statements when interacting with databases. These techniques prevent malicious input from being executed as SQL commands. Avoid dynamically constructing SQL queries with user inputs.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Secure File Uploads</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">If your application allows file uploads, implement strict controls to ensure that uploaded files cannot be executed as scripts. Store uploaded files in a separate directory with restricted access and use white-listing to validate file types.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Keep Software Dependencies Updated</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Outdated libraries and frameworks can contain known vulnerabilities. Regularly update your dependencies and apply security patches promptly. Consider using automated tools to monitor and manage dependencies.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Implement Security Headers</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">To mitigate various attack vectors, utilize security headers like Content Security Policy (CSP), HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS), and X-Content-Type-Options. These headers provide an additional layer of protection against common threats.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Error Handling and Logging</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Implement proper error handling to avoid exposing sensitive information to attackers. Additionally, implement secure logging practices to capture relevant security events and anomalies for analysis.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Data Encryption</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sensitive data should always be encrypted, both in transit and at rest. Use industry-standard encryption protocols like TLS for data in transit and robust encryption algorithms for data at rest.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Regular Security Testing</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Incorporate security testing into your development process. Conduct code reviews, static analysis, and dynamic testing to identify vulnerabilities early. Consider leveraging automated security testing tools to streamline the process.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Secure APIs</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">If your application includes APIs, secure them using authentication, authorization, and rate limiting. Implement OAuth or API keys for access control and monitor API usage for suspicious activity.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Conclusion</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Secure coding is not a one-time task; it's an ongoing commitment to protecting your applications and data. Developers can build a robust defense against cyber threats by adhering to these best practices. Remember that security is a shared responsibility, and collaboration between developers, security professionals, and stakeholders is essential to create a secure software ecosystem. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and continue to evolve your secure coding practices to stay one step ahead of potential threats.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Reference:</b> <br /></span></p><p style="margin-left: 1cm; text-indent: -1cm;">Chapman, B., & Maymí, F. (2021). Chapter 9 - Software Assurance Best Practices. In <i>Comptia Cysa+ Cybersecurity Analyst Certification Exam Guide (exam CS0-002)</i>. essay, McGraw Hill. </p><div></div><p><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-45636522959381600502024-01-06T21:33:00.000-06:002024-01-06T21:33:13.581-06:00My Cybersecurity Poster that I created for my class homework....<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAegRfEHXDJMNqCVS34BbsL-eYFXzvfNcoTbPV0UXjc92JMcchUdsImJoyZVWPJURP20Fq4INu1fru_a2SCnb9f3aIGJ4hXgjAvRglVAtjlgAJYA_B7HVOrP0QncWL6F06MMN-W_0zbEfy-RK95yV2DWebKG5PKSg7QQVf1pjF90b2cqP_69_/s1650/Cybersecurity_Incident_Response.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="1650" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAegRfEHXDJMNqCVS34BbsL-eYFXzvfNcoTbPV0UXjc92JMcchUdsImJoyZVWPJURP20Fq4INu1fru_a2SCnb9f3aIGJ4hXgjAvRglVAtjlgAJYA_B7HVOrP0QncWL6F06MMN-W_0zbEfy-RK95yV2DWebKG5PKSg7QQVf1pjF90b2cqP_69_/w400-h309/Cybersecurity_Incident_Response.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-48907230222324672962024-01-06T19:32:00.000-06:002024-01-06T19:32:00.064-06:00BSIT380 - Week 4 Posting - What is Data Analytics?<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: small;">Data analytics is a multifaceted field that involves the systematic computational analysis of data or statistics. It is used to discover, interpret, and communicate meaningful patterns in data. This process involves applying algorithms and statistical methods to data sets to determine trends, correlations, and patterns. In simpler terms, data analytics transforms raw data into insights to help make better decisions. This process is crucial in various domains, such as business, science, and technology, as it enables organizations and individuals to make more informed choices based on empirical evidence.<br /><br />At its core, data analytics is divided into several types, including descriptive, predictive, prescriptive, and diagnostic analytics. Descriptive analytics aims to summarize past data to understand what has happened. Predictive analytics uses statistical models and forecast techniques to understand the future. Prescriptive analytics suggests actions you can take to affect desired outcomes. Diagnostic analytics focuses on discovering the causes of past outcomes. Integrating data analytics into decision-making processes leads to more efficient operations, higher business profits, and improved quality of life, making it a vital tool in today’s data-driven world.</span></span></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-66657535255366701052023-12-17T19:26:00.000-06:002023-12-17T19:26:45.490-06:00BSIT380 - Week 3 Posting - Cybersecurity Controls<p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Today, we're diving into the fascinating realm of cybersecurity controls – those invisible digital guardians that stand between us and a sea of cyber threats. As an IT expert, I've seen firsthand how these essential controls safeguard our online presence. So, let's break down what cybersecurity controls are and why they're essential and explore some real-world examples.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">What Are Cybersecurity Controls? <br /></span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In the simplest terms, cybersecurity controls are measures implemented to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information and IT systems. Think of them as a mix of strategies, methods, and tools designed to fend off cyber threats and mitigate risks.</span></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Types of Cybersecurity Controls </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Preventive Controls:</b> These are the digital world's fences and locks. They aim to prevent unauthorized access or damage to systems. Examples include firewalls, antivirus software, and strong password policies.<br /><br /><b>Detective Controls:</b> Detective controls are the cyber equivalent of alarm systems. They identify and signal any unusual or potentially harmful activity. Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and regular system audits are key examples.<br /><br /><b>Corrective Controls:</b> Imagine something slips past your defenses. Corrective controls are your plan B, helping to minimize damage and restore normal operations. Examples include backup and recovery procedures and patch management systems.<br /><br /><b>Physical Controls:</b> Often overlooked in the digital conversation, physical controls are crucial. They involve securing the physical infrastructure that houses your IT systems. Think biometric access controls and security cameras.<br /><br /><b>Administrative Controls:</b> These refer to policies, procedures, and training that govern how organizations and employees manage cybersecurity. Examples include security awareness training and incident response plans.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Real-World Examples of Cybersecurity Controls</span></b><br /><br /><b>Firewalls:</b> The gatekeepers of your network, firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules.<br /><br /><b>Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):</b> An extra layer of security that requires a password and username and something only the user has on them, like a physical token.<br /><br /><b>Data Encryption:</b> This turns sensitive information into encoded messages that can only be accessed with a key. It's like sending a secret letter that only the recipient can read.<br /><br /><b>Regular Software Updates:</b> Updating software is like staying up-to-date with your vaccinations; it strengthens your defenses against new strains of cyber threats.<br /><br /><b>Security Training Programs:</b> Educating employees about the dangers of phishing emails and the importance of secure passwords is like training them to be the first line of defense against cyber threats.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Why Cybersecurity Controls Matter<br /></b></span><br />In our hyper-connected world, the importance of cybersecurity controls cannot be overstated. They protect not just individual users but the entire digital ecosystem from a myriad of threats that evolve daily. From safeguarding personal data to ensuring the stability of global financial markets, cybersecurity controls are the unsung heroes of our digital lives.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Final Thoughts</span></b><br /><br />As we continue to navigate the digital landscape, embracing and understanding cybersecurity controls becomes not just a suggestion but a necessity. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, we're not just protecting bytes and data but safeguarding our digital identities, freedoms, and way of life.<br />Stay safe out there, and remember, in cybersecurity, being well-prepared is being well-armed!</span></p><p><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-6987818980189072972023-12-16T19:45:00.009-06:002023-12-16T19:49:28.648-06:00Load-Balancing Apache Webservers: A Beginner's Guide<div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Introduction</span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">As our digital world grows, the need for reliable and fast websites becomes increasingly crucial. This is where the concept of "load-balancing" comes into play, especially for Apache webservers. In this post, we'll break down the basics of load-balancing, why it's essential, and some strategies to implement it effectively. <br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Understanding Load-Balancing</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><br /></span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">At its core, load balancing is about distributing network or application traffic across multiple servers. Think of it like a busy restaurant. If one server is overloaded with all the customers, service becomes slow. But if customers are evenly distributed among several servers, everyone gets served quickly and efficiently. Load-balancing does the same for web traffic to ensure your website remains accessible, performs well, and experiences minimal downtime.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Why is Load-Balancing Important?</span></div><h2 style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></h2><ol style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Improved Accessibility and Performance:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> By distributing requests, load-balancing ensures no single server becomes a bottleneck, leading to faster response times and a smoother user experience.</span></span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Enhanced Server Uptime:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> It reduces the risk of server overload, which can lead to crashes. This means your website is more likely to stay up and running consistently.</span></span></li><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Scalability:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> As your website grows, load-balancing allows you to easily add more servers to handle increased traffic without disrupting existing operations.<br /><br /></span></span></li></ol><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Strategies for Load-Balancing Apache Webservers</span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><b>Use a Load Balancer</b></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">A load balancer sits before your servers and directs incoming web traffic. It can be a dedicated hardware device or software-based like Apache's mod_proxy_balancer.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Implement Different Load-Balancing Methods</span></b></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />Several methods can be used, each with its pros and cons:</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Round Robin:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Distributes requests sequentially among servers.</span><br /><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Least Connections:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Sends new requests to the server with the fewest active connections.</span><br /><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">IP Hash:</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Directs user requests based on their IP address, ensuring they consistently connect to the same server. </span></span></div><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monitor Server Health</b></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Regularly check the health of your servers. If one fails, the load balancer should automatically reroute traffic to the remaining healthy servers.</span></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Consider Server Redundancy<br /></span></b><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Having backup servers in different locations can ensure your website remains operational even if one server or location encounters issues.</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Optimize Server Performance</span><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ensure each server is optimized for performance. This includes regular updates, security patches, and performance tuning.</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Use Sticky Sessions (if necessary)</span><br /></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">For applications that need to maintain a user session state, "sticky sessions" can be helpful. This method ensures that a user's requests are consistently sent to the same server.</span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Conclusion</span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span> </span></span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Implementing load balancing is a crucial step in ensuring your website can handle traffic efficiently and reliably. While it may initially seem complex, understanding the basic concepts and strategies makes it a manageable and valuable process.<br /><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Apache software documentation is an excellent resource for more in-depth information. They provide detailed explanations and guidelines for setting up and managing load-balancing on Apache webservers.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Remember, load-balancing aims to keep your website running and provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for your users.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Reference:</span></i></span></p><ul style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><li style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; font-family: arial; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">"Apache HTTP Server Version 2.4 Documentation." Apache. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://httpd.apache.org/docs/2.4/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">https://httpd.apache.org/docs/2.4/</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">.</span></span></li></ul><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></i></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">By understanding these fundamental concepts and strategies, you can significantly improve the accessibility, performance, and server uptime of your Apache web servers.</span></i></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-90176055377612969522023-12-13T17:46:00.002-06:002023-12-13T17:46:32.851-06:00Hasbro fires 1,100 people for Christmas<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2MJBCHRHqWs" width="320" youtube-src-id="2MJBCHRHqWs"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-38566679003553520092023-12-12T21:40:00.007-06:002023-12-12T21:41:39.190-06:00Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) certification on RHEL8<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">In the dynamic field of system administration, Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8
(RHEL8) certifications stand out as a benchmark for IT professionals. A
key certification in this domain is the Red Hat Certified System
Administrator (RHCSA). Obtaining the RHCSA credential signifies an
individual's ability to perform core system administration tasks in Red
Hat Enterprise Linux environments. This certification is awarded after
successfully passing the RHCSA Exam (EX200)<span class="" data-state="closed"><a class="px-0.5 text-green-600 !no-underline" href="https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa#:~:text=Red%20Hat%20Certified%20System%20Administrator,EX200" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="-mt-0.5 ml-0.5 inline-block text-link-base hover:text-link-hover" fill="none" height="15" viewbox="0 0 19 15" width="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></a></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">The RHCSA exam, a performance-based evaluation, focuses on real-world tasks and scenarios pertinent to system administration across various environments and deployment scenarios. This exam, tailored to Red Hat® Enterprise Linux® 8.2, is hands-on and practical, testing knowledge in areas common to a wide range of environments<span class="" data-state="closed"><a class="px-0.5 text-green-600 !no-underline" href="https://www.redhat.com/en/red-hat-linux-certification#:~:text=The%20Red%20Hat%20Certified%20System,system%20administration%20skills%20and%20knowledge" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="-mt-0.5 ml-0.5 inline-block text-link-base hover:text-link-hover" fill="none" height="15" viewbox="0 0 19 15" width="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></a></span></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">To be eligible for the RHCSA certification, individuals often have backgrounds as experienced Red Hat Enterprise Linux system administrators, students who have completed specific Red Hat System Administration courses, or IT professionals on the path to becoming a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE). This certification is also valuable for DevOps professionals wanting to showcase their expertise in container technology and for those required to obtain the certification by their organization or due to mandates like the DOD 8570 directive<span class="" data-state="closed"><a class="px-0.5 text-green-600 !no-underline" href="https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="-mt-0.5 ml-0.5 inline-block text-link-base hover:text-link-hover" fill="none" height="15" viewbox="0 0 19 15" width="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></a></span></span></span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">The skills an RHCSA is expected to demonstrate are diverse and foundational for system administration. These include managing files, directories, and command-line environments; creating simple shell scripts; operating and controlling services on running systems; configuring local storage and file systems; deploying, configuring, and maintaining systems; managing users and groups; and handling basic security and container management<span class="" data-state="closed"><a class="px-0.5 text-green-600 !no-underline" href="https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="-mt-0.5 ml-0.5 inline-block text-link-base hover:text-link-hover" fill="none" height="15" viewbox="0 0 19 15" width="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></a></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">For preparation, Red Hat recommends specific courses based on the individual's background. For Windows system administrators or those with minimal Red Hat Enterprise Linux experience, courses like Red Hat System Administration I and II are suggested. For Linux or UNIX administrators, the RHCSA Rapid Track course with an exam is recommended. Additionally, there's a course on Running Containers with Red Hat Technical Overview for those interested in container management<span class="" data-state="closed"><a class="px-0.5 text-green-600 !no-underline" href="https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="-mt-0.5 ml-0.5 inline-block text-link-base hover:text-link-hover" fill="none" height="15" viewbox="0 0 19 15" width="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></a></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">In summary, the RHCSA certification for RHEL8 is a comprehensive and practical assessment of a system administrator's skills in managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux environments. It's a valuable credential for professionals seeking to validate and enhance their system administration capabilities in the modern data center.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;">For more information:</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa">https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa</a></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.redhat.com/en/red-hat-linux-certification">https://www.redhat.com/en/red-hat-linux-certification</a></span></span></p><br />Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-60757979037508650912023-12-11T11:37:00.000-06:002023-12-11T11:37:20.554-06:00Configuring a Secure NFS Share on Debian 12 Server<p style="text-align: justify;">Network File System (NFS) is a powerful tool for sharing files across a network, but security is paramount when implementing such services. This guide focuses on configuring a secure NFS share on a Debian 12 server, emphasizing authentication, encryption, and access control to safeguard your data.</p><p><em><b>Step 1: Update and Upgrade Packages</b></em></p><p>Ensure your Debian 12 server is running the latest software updates:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 2: Install NFS Server and Related Tools</b></em></p><p>Install the NFS server package along with additional tools for managing NFS:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo apt install nfs-kernel-server nfs-common</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 3: Create a Dedicated NFS User</b></em></p><p>Create a dedicated user account for NFS to enhance security. This user will be used to control access to the shared resources:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo adduser --system nfsuser</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 4: Create a Directory for the NFS Share</b></em></p><p>Choose a directory to share securely. For instance, let's create a directory named "secure_share" in the root directory:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo <span class="hljs-built_in">mkdir</span> /secure_share</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Set permissions to restrict access:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo <span class="hljs-built_in">chmod</span> 700 /secure_share
sudo <span class="hljs-built_in">chown</span> nfsuser:nfsuser /secure_share</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 5: Configure NFS Exports for Secure Share</b></em></p><p>Edit the <code>/etc/exports</code> file to configure NFS exports. Open the file in a text editor:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo nano /etc/exports</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Add the following line to export the "secure_share" directory securely:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-plaintext"><span style="font-family: courier;">/secure_share *(rw,async,all_squash,anonuid=1000,anongid=1000,no_subtree_check,sec=sys)</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>This configuration ensures secure access and maps remote requests to the dedicated NFS user.</p><p><em><b>Step 6: Configure NFS Security Settings</b></em></p><p>Edit the NFS server configuration file:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo nano /etc/default/nfs-kernel-server</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Add the following line to enable support for NFSv4, which has improved security features:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-plaintext"><span style="font-family: courier;">RPCNFSDOPTS="--nfs-version 4"</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Save the file and restart the NFS server:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo systemctl restart nfs-kernel-server</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 7: Configure Firewall</b></em></p><p>If using a firewall, allow NFS traffic. For NFSv4, use:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo ufw allow 2049</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Reload the firewall:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo ufw reload</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p><em><b>Step 8: Testing the Secure NFS Share</b></em></p><p>On the client machine, create a directory for mounting:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo <span class="hljs-built_in">mkdir</span> /mnt/secure_nfs</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Mount the secure NFS share:</p><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="flex items-center relative text-gray-200 bg-gray-800 dark:bg-token-surface-primary px-4 py-2 text-xs font-sans justify-between rounded-t-md"><span></span></div></div></pre><pre><div class="bg-black rounded-md"><div class="p-4 overflow-y-auto"><code class="!whitespace-pre hljs language-bash"><span style="font-family: courier;">sudo mount -t nfs4 your_debian_server:/secure_share /mnt/secure_nfs</span>
</code></div></div></pre><p>Replace "your_debian_server" with the IP address or hostname of your Debian 12 server.</p><p><em><b>Conclusion:</b></em></p><p style="text-align: justify;">You've successfully configured a secure NFS share on your Debian 12 server, incorporating user authentication, encryption, and access control. By following these steps, you've taken measures to protect your data and ensure that only authorized users can access the shared resources. Keep in mind that security is an ongoing process, and regular reviews of your NFS configuration are essential to maintaining a robust and secure file-sharing environment.</p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-79418938573074650662023-12-11T10:11:00.000-06:002023-12-11T10:11:19.660-06:00Embarking on Epic Journeys: A Guide to Pathfinder 2nd Edition<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full" style="text-align: justify;"><div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="24b45640-c2bb-4c6a-8722-9ea4a9083bb7"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">In the vast realm of tabletop role-playing games (RPGs), few titles have captured the hearts and imaginations of players quite like Pathfinder. Launched in 2009 as an evolution of the 3.5 edition of Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder quickly gained popularity for its depth, customization options, and commitment to preserving the spirit of classic fantasy adventures. Now, with the release of Pathfinder 2nd Edition, players find themselves on the brink of a new era of epic storytelling and strategic gameplay.</span><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">The Evolution of Pathfinder:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Pathfinder 2nd Edition, released in August 2019 by Paizo Inc., builds upon the solid foundation laid by its predecessor. The game introduces a refined rule set, streamlining gameplay while retaining the intricate mechanics that fans love. The designers at Paizo sought to create an experience that is both accessible to newcomers and satisfyingly complex for seasoned veterans.</span></p><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Character Creation and Customization:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">One of the standout features of Pathfinder 2e is its robust character creation system. Players can bring their unique visions to life with an extensive array of ancestries, backgrounds, and classes. Ancestry choices allow for a diverse range of characters, from the sturdy dwarven warriors to the nimble elven wizards. Combined with a variety of backgrounds, characters are not only mechanically distinct but also possess rich backstories that enhance the overall narrative.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">The class system has undergone significant improvements, offering more options and flexibility. Archetypes, introduced in the Pathfinder 2e Core Rulebook, allow characters to specialize further within their chosen class, creating a diverse party dynamic that encourages cooperation and teamwork.</span></p><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Streamlined Gameplay Mechanics:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Pathfinder 2e has made notable changes to its gameplay mechanics, aiming for a smoother and more intuitive experience. The introduction of the three-action economy simplifies turn-based combat, allowing players to perform a variety of actions within their turn. This system not only accelerates combat but also adds strategic depth as players decide between attacking multiple foes, moving into advantageous positions, or utilizing powerful special abilities.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Additionally, the proficiency system replaces the complex bonuses of the previous edition, making it easier for players to understand their character's capabilities. This change contributes to a more accessible entry point for newcomers while maintaining the complexity and depth that seasoned players crave.</span></p><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Engaging Storytelling:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Pathfinder has always placed a strong emphasis on storytelling, and the 2nd Edition continues this tradition. The game provides Game Masters (GMs) with a wealth of tools to craft immersive worlds and gripping narratives. The Adventure Paths, Paizo's pre-written campaigns, offer epic storylines that can span dozens of sessions, providing a cohesive and engaging experience for players.</span></p><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Community and Support:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Pathfinder's dedicated community has played a crucial role in the game's success. Online forums, social media groups, and fan-generated content have fostered a vibrant ecosystem where players can share experiences, seek advice, and contribute to the ever-expanding tapestry of Pathfinder adventures.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Paizo's commitment to ongoing support is evident in regular updates, errata, and the release of new content. The publisher actively listens to player feedback, demonstrating a genuine interest in maintaining a dynamic and evolving gaming system.</span></p><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Conclusion:</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Pathfinder 2nd Edition stands as a testament to the evolution of tabletop role-playing games. With its deep customization options, streamlined mechanics, and engaging storytelling, Pathfinder 2e offers an unparalleled gaming experience for both newcomers and veterans alike. As players continue to embark on epic journeys in the rich and diverse worlds of Golarion, the legacy of Pathfinder grows, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of the RPG genre. So, gather your party, sharpen your swords, and let the adventures unfold in the boundless realms of Pathfinder 2nd Edition.</span></p></div></div></div>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-34669271400873048822023-12-09T12:21:00.001-06:002023-12-09T12:21:12.681-06:00BSIT380 - Week 2 Posting<p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">What is an SLA? </span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">A Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a formal contract that describes in detail the level of service a service provider commits to delivering to a customer. SLAs are pivotal in establishing expectations, performance criteria, and responsibilities between the parties involved.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I'm most familiar with how SLAs are used in the Information Technology industry. However, SLAs can be used in any industry where there is a need for two entities, one providing a service and one receiving the service, to define their relationship in a manner that is legally binding. Wouldn't it be interesting if matrimony came with an SLA attached to the marriage license?</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">For more information on SLAs:</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Overby, S., Greiner, L., & Gibbons Paul, L. (2017, July 5). </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">What is an SLA? Best practices for service-level agreements</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. CIO. <a href="https://www.cio.com/article/274740/outsourcing-sla-definitions-and-solutions.html">https://www.cio.com/article/274740/outsourcing-sla-definitions-and-solutions.html</a></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Coursera Staff. (2023, November 29). </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">What is a service-level agreement (SLA)? and how to write one</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. Coursera. </span><a href="https://www.coursera.org/articles/sla"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">https://www.coursera.org/articles/sla</span></span></a></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-2408921522922557882023-11-30T20:20:00.003-06:002023-11-30T20:21:22.455-06:00BSIT380 - Week 1 Posting - Welcome!<span style="font-size: medium;">This is my first Blog entry for a college course I have just started, called " BSIT 380 - System Hardening and Network Risk Management." This is a cybersecurity course, and I'm not a cybersecurity analyst, so this should be an interesting 12 weeks. My experience is mainly in Linux/Unix systems administration, systems engineering, and data center design and management.<br />The book for this class is the CompTIA CySA+ Cybersecurity Analyst Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Second Edition (Exam CS0-002), which is an excellent book to read and an interesting certification to achieve. I may have to take the exam at the end of this course and see how I do. I hold a current CompTIA CASP+ certification, so I hope that knowledge comes in handy for completing this class. Wish me luck!</span><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;"> </span></span><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-21856986464113390122023-11-16T20:22:00.004-06:002023-11-16T20:28:44.181-06:00BSIT200 - Week 12 Posting - Passwords...<p> About 21 years ago, Mr. Bill Burr wrote information security guidelines for the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and is responsible for the most obnoxious advice ever given about passwords. It's the one about how your password must be 15 characters long, include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, symbols, hieroglyphics, and a blood sample, and must be changed every 60 days. </p><p>He has since apologized for writing a standard for passwords that no one can remember, and that causes people to write down their passwords, which defeats the purpose of complicated passwords in the first place. </p><p>There's an excellent article about it here: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/as-it-happens-wednesday-edition-1.4240252/man-who-made-passwords-hard-to-remember-regrets-rules-that-drive-people-crazy-1.4240255</p><p> This is the last blog posting for this class I'm taking (BSIT200), but no worries. I'm sure the next class I take will require blogging as well. <br /></p><p><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-24171426624105638812023-11-13T20:54:00.006-06:002023-11-13T20:54:46.185-06:00Fools are everywhere...<p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: medium;">“A common mistake that people make when trying to design something completely foolproof is to underestimate the ingenuity of complete fools.”<br />-- Douglas Adams, “Mostly Harmless” </span><br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-10700538783743937842023-11-10T10:43:00.007-06:002023-11-10T10:44:24.936-06:00BSIT-220 - Week 11 posting - Documentation<p></p><p>One of the things that bothers me the most where I work are people that won't document what they do in fear that their employer will keep their documentation and replace them with a lower cost employee. These people don't realize that having or not having documentation will in no way stop their employer from firing them with no reason given. </p><p>Back in the day when I worked at Dell, accountants decided that Dell needed to reduce their workforce by 10%. At the time, that meant that 8000 people needed to be laid off. So to make it "not personal" they decided to select a specific pay grade, and then lay off everyone in that pay grade. It had nothing to do with work performance. I saw people (myself included) that produced millions in revenue for Dell, lose their jobs. </p><p>So if documentation (or the lack thereof) doesn't contribute to job security, what does it do? </p><p>Documentation ensures that processes are efficient, consistent, and
scalable. Documentation ensures critical business processes survive the
loss of personnel or resources. </p><p>Documentation ensures that you can go on vacation, and that the person that has to do your job while you are away, does not develop a personal dislike for you. It also keeps your phone from ringing on your time off. Most importantly, unless you have a photographic memory, documentation helps you keep knowledge organized and available when you need it. </p><p>Make the time to document your business processes. You will be glad you did.<br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-75724198171121797042023-11-10T10:02:00.000-06:002023-11-10T10:02:08.666-06:00BSIT-200 Week 11 Posting - Printers Kill Trees<p> I can understand why in some situations we might need a "hard copy" of a document. But in my line of work, I see people print a lot of things that don't need to be printed. I generally tend to print things to a PDF file and then read them on my laptop or tablet. Where I see the biggest part of the problem is when business have to print documents that require "original signatures" to make them valid. I consider this to be a failure of the encryption and authentication methods used today by IT. </p><p>If we had a secure and easy to use method of identifying ourselves via a cryptographic token, and the method was legally accepted by the US Government and business, I'm sure the pile of paper I had to deal with the last time I bought a house would be reduced drastically. We do have methods for signing a PDF file with a cryptographic token, but I don't think the legal system has caught up with it yet. Also the technology is not as wide-spread as it should be. <br /></p>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-43788335919368713682023-11-06T15:02:00.002-06:002023-11-06T15:02:42.249-06:00Back in my day...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8w8P6Mmlek51Jpc0e3UYts7Mhsqn0BixWDOdADErYncLL7HsQ5NW9xYKwLeTIhmGlqoDWOOwVmqgX38SvuF-bX6M_wga46qokCKizntMKCqUsbjimS2Ng2vnmM-zNq6rKFvzLcVfZi7Dtyr1nFirhR_sInC4eE_yWooietxsKGrQ-mrNtmsbY/s400/IMG_4680.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8w8P6Mmlek51Jpc0e3UYts7Mhsqn0BixWDOdADErYncLL7HsQ5NW9xYKwLeTIhmGlqoDWOOwVmqgX38SvuF-bX6M_wga46qokCKizntMKCqUsbjimS2Ng2vnmM-zNq6rKFvzLcVfZi7Dtyr1nFirhR_sInC4eE_yWooietxsKGrQ-mrNtmsbY/s320/IMG_4680.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-79418232375453432512023-11-03T20:06:00.025-05:002023-11-05T08:11:46.177-06:00BSIT220 - Week 10 Post - Network Segmentation<p></p><div class="dbThreadBody" tabindex="0">
<div class="vtbegenerated"><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The most important reason for configuring
network segmentation is improving network security. Network
segmentation involves dividing a computer network into smaller more
manageable parts. This helps limit any damage if there's a security
breach and can help prevent unauthorized access to important data or
systems. Segmentation can also help to contain security problems by
stopping threats from spreading.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Implementing network segmentation involves configuring Routers and Switches to create and manage different network
segments, thus enabling the control of traffic in order to enforce
security policies. Segments can be configured through
the use of Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), which create logically
separate networks within a single physical infrastructure.
</span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Firewalls can be used to monitor and control incoming and outgoing
network traffic based on predetermined security rules, to regulate the flow of data between different segments, and
to enforce security policies at the boundary of each segment.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) can be deployed to
monitor network traffic, detect potential security threats or
violations, and take proactive measures to prevent security breaches.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Implementing antivirus, anti-malware, and encryption solutions helps
to safeguard data and communications within each network segment.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Implementing network segmentation effectively requires a certain
level of expertise in various areas of IT. <br /><br />Understanding network architecture, protocols, and components is
essential for designing and configuring network segmentation in a way
that aligns with the organization's requirements and security policies.
</span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, best practices, relevant
industry regulations, compliance standards, and emerging threats is
important for identifying potential vulnerabilities and security
measures to protect against cyber-attacks.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Proficiency in IT infrastructure management, including hardware,
software, and network administration, is necessary for deploying and
maintaining the software and hardware components required for network
segmentation.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Having skilled professionals with expertise in these areas will
contribute to the successful implementation and management of network
segmentation, ensuring that the network remains secure, resilient, and
capable of supporting the organization’s operational requirements.</span></p><p> </p></div></div>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340434.post-36362392333653459192023-11-03T13:47:00.004-05:002023-11-03T13:47:26.338-05:00BSIT-200 Week 10 Post - Why I love iOS and hate Android.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLysJ7iEbmMxNPKlaVEbNfhC5Ke-zddkycv1Jl1ezI45lnN7Pnq-rsYSqyOlOpcZ579tvSUU10nZQZMx9tBwBbxLWpDnYSSuJEpAKwP1AsJ1z6-O-N7VL79s2orROll32RzerPAQn1p5Y_9hnQOhMVvhktVzNkhv9M0KbyolJtG6zPjyjNgvUu/s850/ios-vs-android-mobile-os.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="850" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLysJ7iEbmMxNPKlaVEbNfhC5Ke-zddkycv1Jl1ezI45lnN7Pnq-rsYSqyOlOpcZ579tvSUU10nZQZMx9tBwBbxLWpDnYSSuJEpAKwP1AsJ1z6-O-N7VL79s2orROll32RzerPAQn1p5Y_9hnQOhMVvhktVzNkhv9M0KbyolJtG6zPjyjNgvUu/s320/ios-vs-android-mobile-os.png" width="320" /></a></div>My preference for a mobile device
operating system is Apple's iOS, which strikes a lot of people as odd,
since I am a Linux Systems Administrator. Most Linux Admins prefer
Android, since it is similiar to Linux, and can be tinkered with. I've heard some people actually refer to Android as a Linux Distribution!<br /><p></p><div class="dbThreadBody" tabindex="0"><div class="vtbegenerated">
<p>However, my reason for liking iOS is simple. After a long day of
supporting Linux servers and end-users, and dealing with other people's
IT problems, the last thing I want to do is come home to IT problems. I have plenty to do at work. Bringing IT stress home is counter-productive.<br /></p><p>I
have an iPhone and an iPad, and I've never had a problem with
any of these devices. The way they are designed allows me to perform
the tasks that I want to perform without any issues, and without me
having to fix, side-load, tweak, configure, or otherwise mess with,
iOS in any way. I use Apple's Apps, and they just work. If I want
to self-induce an IT headache, I have a Windows 11 Laptop for that. If I
want to see a computer that just works, I have a Linux PC and Linux
servers for that. I'd rather leave all the IT stress at work where it
belongs.<br /><br />I tried Android once a few years ago and I did not like
it. It made me work, by having to spend time configuring things and
making them work. Also, the applications just didn't look as good as their iOS counterparts, nor did they seem as intuitive to use. I was using a Samsung Galaxy S10 (when it was new) and as an end-user, I just wasn't impressed. Someone suggested that I wanted to look into
side-loading some apps and hacking something. </p><p>No. Just, no.</p><p> <br /></p></div></div>Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038136425295863964noreply@blogger.com