Articles by Steve Suehring

New Major Version of Debian Set for Release

Tue, 14 Jun 2005 10:00:00 EDT

The Debian Project was set for a new release of the Debian GNU/Linux operating system at the end of May likely by the time you're reading this.

i-Technology Opinion: Security Not a Microsoft Priority

Tue, 08 Mar 2005 00:00:00 EST

'A cursory glance at two Microsoft-related security disclosures in February reveals that, for all of the rhetoric, Microsoft is very slow to respond to critical vulnerabilities' contends LinuxWorld advocacy editor Steve Suehring. 'It appears that Microsoft is merely controlling the information,' he continues, 'rather than controlling the security vulnerabilities and protecting their customers. In addition, old bugs are showing up in new versions of their products.' As Suehring notes: 'Complexity is the enemy of security.'

Essential Linux and Open Source Books

Mon, 17 Jan 2005 00:00:00 EST

In keeping with our 'Best of...' theme for this month, I'd like to provide some of the essential titles for learning Linux and open source. These titles were gathered with feedback from our readers as well as other professionals in the field. We've divided the books into subject areas and gathered as much of a consensus as possible.

Ignoring the Obvious: The Limits of Market Share Analysis for Security

Tue, 28 Dec 2004 00:00:00 EST

No computer system is safe from security threats. There, I said it. With that out of the way, I'd like to share my concern over a potentially disturbing fact: Linux is gaining popularity on the desktop (and everywhere else for that matter), which is resulting in a loss of market share for the dominant desktop, Microsoft Windows.

Learning Linux

Mon, 13 Dec 2004 00:00:00 EST

Over the last five years, the level of interest in Linux and open source software has risen dramatically. Not coincidentally, the number of books on Linux and open source have also risen. The number of titles available leaves the would-be buyer in shelf-shock.

Xandros: An Excellent Desktop Replacement

Sat, 16 Oct 2004 00:00:00 EDT

'Whatever they're paid, the software engineers behind the Xandros installer are worth more,' writes Steve Suehring, after zeroing in on the version of Xandros called Open Circulation Edition as the solution to his parents' problems when they asked him to help them find a solution to a troubled computer that was running Microsoft Windows XP Professional.

WatchIT Releases Linux Education Series

Tue, 31 Aug 2004 00:00:00 EDT

WatchIT, a rich media company that produces education on demand, recently released a six-part series of interactive programs titled 'Linux Education Series,' targeted at executives and others who would like to learn about the Linux platform and the world of open source. The series consists of six programs ranging from high-level overviews of Linux to some fairly specific steps for Linux security.

The Need for Speed: Met with Linux

Tue, 27 Jul 2004 00:00:00 EDT

For many sports fans worldwide, Formula One racing is the pinnacle of all competitive racing. The degree of technology and skill that go into turning one lap in a Formula One race car is unsurpassed in any form of racing. The drivers are the world's best; the racing circuits the most demanding; and the cars are masterpieces of design and form alike.

Open Source, Not Outsource

Tue, 18 May 2004 00:00:00 EDT

Companies today are looking for potential cost savings, and outsourcing appears to be the advantage needed to get ahead. The short-term gains are apparent: a direct cost savings as more expensive employees are laid off. Commonly overlooked are the underlying long-term economic effects of moving these high-paying, skilled jobs overseas.

An Approach That Works

Mon, 19 Apr 2004 00:00:00 EDT

Seemingly everyone has insight into the open source versus closed source security debate. Each side provides plausible arguments for the benefits of their own model and points out drawbacks of the other. The proponents of open source argue that the source code is open and available for anyone to see, for many sets of eyes to examine, and is therefore more secure.

Ten Linux and Open Source Myths

Mon, 19 Jan 2004 00:00:00 EST

To say there is general confusion about Linux and open source software within many organizations is an understatement. The confusion seems to stem from misunderstanding the Linux and open source philosophy but is due in no small part to misinformation. Attempts at understanding Linux and open source are hindered by the decentralized nature of Linux and open source software.

A Call for Advocacy

Tue, 23 Dec 2003 00:00:00 EST

Linux proves that the decentralized model works, and works better. But having the best technology isn't all it takes...Linux needs advocacy in order to win the adoption war.

To Whom It May Concern

Wed, 10 Dec 2003 00:00:00 EST

LinuxWorld Magazine joins with responsible leaders of the Open Source community in calling for a halt to any DDoS attacks on the SCO Group Web site.

POINT - COUNTERPOINT SPECIAL What's Wrong with the Open Source Community?

Mon, 01 Dec 2003 00:00:00 EST

Just as, in the Java world, there are many competing MVC frameworks for JSP development, so many Open Source developers - says LinuxWorld senior editor James Turner - 'scratch the same itch.' In this week's installment of our 'Point-Counterpoint' series, LinuxWorld editors James Turner and Steve Suehring slug it out over that most contentious of issues: does the Open Source community on occasion shoot itself in the foot? James says it does, constantly; Steve disagrees.

Can I Help You Find Something?

Thu, 27 Nov 2003 00:00:00 EST

Much more work and effort needs to be put into searching capabilities on e-commerce Web sites, says LinuxWorld's Steve Suehring.

Microsoft Urges Users Not to Use Windows on the Internet

Mon, 18 Aug 2003 00:00:00 EDT

Microsoft's Web site was recently urging users to purchase additional hardware or software - or keep computers using the Windows OS off of the Internet altogether. Steve Suehring makes no claim that Linux has all of the answers for security. 'However, attacks can be prevented much easier with Linux,' he writes.

Why Do We -- Why Does Anyone -- Write About SCO?

Tue, 29 Jul 2003 00:00:00 EDT

LinuxWorld's own Steve Suehring steps up onto the soapbox momentarily to hold forth on the SCO lawsuit and express his urge for common sense to prevail.