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A major player in consumer SSDs is bowing out, impacting prices and options for consumers. The hosts dive into a concerning hardware hack that bypasses memory protection on AMD and Intel systems. They discuss the shortcomings of AI, including a cringe-worthy incident with Google's Vibe platform that erased a developer's drive. Plus, the talk turns to the importance of monitoring network usage effectively. It's a rollercoaster of tech insights and cautionary tales!

Explore the potential fallout of government crackdowns on VPNs and the technical hurdles to enforce them. Discover how stealthy browser extensions played the long game, infecting millions with malware over years. Get the scoop on the newly released FreeBSD 15.0 and its exciting features. Dive into a debate about database strategies: single database versus separate ones for applications. Learn when it's best to opt for dedicated databases based on specific needs.

Google's unsettling approach to data collection raises eyebrows, especially with their Nest devices still tracking users. The hosts dive deep into the repercussions of relying on cloud services, revealing how smart gadgets can become useless when outages strike. FreeBSD gains momentum as it joins the OCI runtime specification, sparking conversations about container practices and the reality versus expectations in tech. Plus, tips on snagging cheap used hardware from eBay and beyond keep the frugality theme alive!

The hosts dive into the implications of Windows becoming an agentic OS, raising privacy and security concerns. They discuss the surprising failure rates of Western Digital's SMR drives and the complexities of data recovery. AI assistance is debated, focusing on which users might adopt it, while ethical considerations and security risks are highlighted. Strategies for backing up VMware with ZFS and the potential of using WireGuard to simplify VLANs are also explored, alongside practical deployment tips for better network resilience.

Allan tells us about the recent OpenZFS Summit including inconsistent JBODs, more details about mixed disk sizes in ZFS with AnyRaid, an upcoming standard that allows you to keep using partially dead hard drives, Seagate’s roadmap for 50 and 100 TB drives, and NVMe connected mechanical drives. Plus using a separate mini PC for work.   Plugs Support us on patreon and get an ad-free RSS feed with early episodes sometimes Building Enterprise-Grade Storage on Proxmox with ZFS December Webinar: The 12 Days of ZFS: Tips, Tricks, and Treats   Free consulting We were asked about using a separate mini PC for work.               See our contact page for ways to get in touch.  

Discover why refurbished hard drives might be your next best investment for a NAS setup. The hosts debate if drives are getting better with time, revealing surprising longevity trends. Jim shares a cautionary tale about his M.2 NVMe drive failure during a presentation, highlighting overheating issues. They also dive into the complexities of using multiple partitions with ZFS and offer insights on boot strategies. Tune in for expert tips on maximizing your storage solutions!

Discover the risks of exposing your Baseboard Management Controller to the internet and how it can lead to persistent malware. Learn about the astonishing effects of a zip bomb and how ZFS managed a massive file without crashing. The discussion delves into the alarming prevalence of bot-driven internet traffic and its impact on social media engagement. Plus, get expert advice on building a home server cluster, highlighting the benefits of using x86 hardware over Raspberry Pi for superior reliability.

The discussion kicks off with the impact of AI on HDD and SSD shortages, prompting manufacturers to raise prices. Self-hosting is challenged as a viable future option, with arguments against it for most users. The hosts recommend small cooperatives or manageable providers as realistic alternatives. They also offer practical advice on setting up a server for virtualization on a budget, detailing the benefits of using older hardware like mini-PCs or off-lease servers. Lastly, there's a push to empower non-engineers with accessible tech solutions.

Windows 10's official end-of-life arrives, but European users get a surprise free security update extension. The team discusses why many resist upgrading from older Windows versions and the e-waste concerns tied to Windows 11's strict hardware requirements. Microsoft’s push towards mandatory online accounts for Windows 11 users raises eyebrows, leading to insights on hidden workarounds for local accounts. Plus, they tackle the pros and cons of repurposing outdated server hardware and the risks involved in the process.

A major security breach at Red Hat reveals sensitive customer data, raising concerns about centralizing such information. Synology reverses its decision on third-party drive restrictions while also removing features like HEVC transcoding, impacting user trust. The discussion shifts to the Salter philosophy, emphasizing the importance of open and portable solutions to avoid vendor lock-in. Finally, experts offer free consulting on managing ZFS properties during replication, sharing strategies to enhance data portability and system mobility.