The podcast explores alternative operating systems if Linux wasn't available and highlights the appreciation for Linux. They discuss the RISC-V market and layoffs at SiFive. The hosts debate ad blockers and GDPR violations. The incident of a blocked DreamWorks presentation and the hope for legal action against Google and YouTube is mentioned. There is a discussion on upcoming changes to plasma widgets and a device trust solution called Kolide. Finally, the speakers share their preferences for different operating systems and the possibility of using Linux-like systems.
If not using Linux, Graham would choose macOS for its Linux-like aspects and a good terminal, while Will decides to use a Debian system with a BSD kernel.
When it comes to servers, Graham and Faillen prefer FreeBSD due to its compatibility with OpenSSH and other server-like applications.
Deep dives
Summary of Late Night Linux Episode 254
The Late Night Linux team discusses their choice of operating systems if they were not allowed to use Linux. Graham would choose macOS for its Linux-like qualities and good terminal, while Will would reluctantly choose Windows for its familiarity and configuration options. Faillen would opt for FreeBSD for its OpenSSH capabilities. For servers, Graham would stick with BSD, particularly for ZFS support, while Will would choose a Debian-based system with a BSD kernel. Faillen would also go with FreeBSD. Regarding embedded systems, Graham would consider using FreeBSD on devices like Raspberry Pi, while Will leans toward Arduino. The team reflects on the appreciation they have for Linux and its versatility.
Desktop: macOS preferred for its Linux-like qualities
If not using Linux, Graham would choose macOS for its Linux-like aspects and a good terminal. Though Windows is an option, Will decides to use a Debian system with a BSD kernel. Faillen would go with FreeBSD for its OpenSSH capabilities.
Server: FreeBSD for familiarity and ZFS support
When it comes to servers, Graham and Faillen prefer FreeBSD due to its compatibility with OpenSSH and other server-like applications. Will chooses a Debian system with a BSD kernel for ZFS support and a first-class experience.
Embedded systems: FreeBSD on Raspberry Pi and Arduino
If using embedded systems, Graham would consider FreeBSD for devices like Raspberry Pi, allowing for server applications. Will leans toward Arduino for its capabilities with bespoke configurations. The team reflects on the versatility and appreciation they have for Linux and its applications across different platforms.
We imagine a scenario where we aren’t allowed to use Linux, try to decide what we’d use instead, and realise how much we actually appreciate it. Plus mixed news in the RISC-V world, a glimmer of hope for desktop Linux on Arm, YouTube’s adblock tracking might be against the GDPR, and a micro KDE Korner.
Kolide ensures that if a device isn’t secure, it can’t access your apps. It’s Device Trust for Okta. Watch the demo today to see how it works at kolide.com/latenightlinux