NIST is changing the game with new, sensible password standards, abolishing absurd complexity rules. The podcast dives into why multi-core server CPUs can enhance performance and reliability in deployments. They also discuss the uncertain future of the '.io' domain amidst political shifts and offer insights on setting up Linux-based routers, focusing on tools like OpenWrt and mini PCs. Plus, they highlight reliable alternatives for budget-friendly access points. A blend of tech talk and practical advice awaits!
NIST's proposed password standards aim to eliminate complex rules, advocating for more practical and secure password management practices.
The discussion on manycore server CPUs emphasizes their efficiency for specific workloads, promoting better resource management and reduced administrative complexity.
Deep dives
ZFS Data Recovery Webinar
A special Halloween webinar on ZFS horror stories is scheduled for October 31st, where experts will share real-life stories of data recovery challenges with ZFS and how they successfully recovered lost data. The session aims to engage participants by allowing them to ask questions about ZFS data recovery, which has become a significant topic due to its complexities and the risks associated with data loss. Lessons from these stories will emphasize the importance of proper data management and recovery strategies in preventing data catastrophes. Additionally, those who cannot attend live will have access to the recorded session on the organization's website and YouTube channel for later viewing.
NIST Password Guidelines Update
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has proposed new guidelines to reform outdated and ineffective password rules, emphasizing that passwords should not require users to follow complex composition rules. This update suggests that mandatory character requirements for passwords, such as including numbers or special characters, are unnecessary and hinder security by promoting poor password practices, such as simple modifications. Other significant changes include eliminating periodic password changes, stipulating that they should only be enforced in the event of a suspected compromise, which addresses long-standing criticisms of conventional password management strategies. The guidelines also clarify that password hints should not be accessible to unauthorized users and suggest moving away from knowledge-based security questions, which have been proven to be inadequate.
Multi-Core Server Deployment Insights
The discussion highlights the rising trend of deploying massively multi-core servers and the misconceptions regarding their utilization efficiency in computing environments. Contrary to naysayers, users purchasing such powerful servers typically have specific workloads in mind that warrant the investment, seeking higher performance and resource consolidation rather than spreading tasks over many smaller machines. The episode argues that consolidating workloads on fewer, more capable servers can lead to better resource management, energy efficiency, and simplicity in administration, especially when handling workloads that are suited for such configurations. Moreover, consumers must be judicious about managing their server configurations and workloads to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential bottlenecks.
The Future of the .io Domain
Concerns were raised regarding the future of the .io domain following the transfer of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius, suggesting that the domain might become obsolete. However, it is predicted that the widespread use and appeal of .io will likely lead to its survival, regardless of political changes. Should the domain be considered for retirement, it is plausible that a private entity would step in to maintain its functionality, or it could simply transition from a country-code TLD to a standard public TLD. Instances of this happening before, such as the .su domain of the former Soviet Union, indicate that .io's popularity likely ensures its stability in the digital landscape.
NIST has finally proposed some sensible password standards, why server CPUs with high core counts make sense in a lot of deployments, the .io TLD is probably sticking around, and the best options for a Linux-based router.