2.5 Admins

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 Plus, they tackle the pros and cons of repurposing outdated server hardware and the risks involved in the process.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.

Exploring the troubles of a full root partition, the hosts dive into the confusion caused by misleading error messages and login failures. They uncover the bandwidth waste caused by TikTok's aggressive video preloading and debate its impact on user experience. ZFS pool issues are front and center, detailing how to handle overlapping segment errors and provide insights on safer data recovery methods. Curious listeners can also learn about new diagnostics added to ZFS and when to prioritize restoring from backups over risky repairs.

Nvidia and Intel are joining forces in a multi-billion dollar deal aimed at outpacing AMD. OpenAI's ambitious $100B data center initiative raises concerns about its massive power consumption, equating to that of ten nuclear reactors. The hosts delve into the inevitability of LLM hallucinations, highlighting that they're not just technical glitches but part of the design. They also discuss best practices for server and hard drive longevity, offering valuable tips for tech aficionados.

Joe shares his experience setting up a FreeBSD box as a replication target, highlighting its unique differences from Linux. The hosts delve into the common myths surrounding storage metrics, uncovering misconceptions about busy states, sector sizes, and misleading capacity marketing. They also discuss the unreliable nature of SMART attributes, giving listeners valuable insights into what really matters in storage technology. A practical and enlightening listen for those navigating the world of servers and storage!

The hosts dive into the chaos caused by a RAID meltdown while managing a massive 55 terabyte database, revealing the challenges of restoration. They question the reliability of DNS certification with an alarming rise in misissued certificates. A hosting provider's ethics comes under scrutiny for avoiding Cloudflare due to traffic management concerns. They also dissect a viral app with questionable practices in activism. Lastly, alternatives for S3 object storage, including MinIO, are discussed for on-premises solutions.

Discover the vulnerabilities lurking in McDonald's IT systems, including alarming coding errors and hardcoded API keys. Uncover the shocking global scheme where counterfeit Seagate drives were sold as new, intertwined with organized crime. Hear about a developer's drastic actions post-firing, and a woman's role in North Korean cyber infiltration. Lastly, tackle the intricacies of setting up ZFS without traditional operating systems, and navigate the challenges of managing Snaps on Ubuntu for enhanced stability.

A new security layer for Android devices is stirring up discussions about developer verification and control over app installations. Concerns arise over Google’s shift towards more restrictions, echoing Apple's tight grip on their ecosystem. The U.S. government's investment in Intel is under the spotlight, highlighting the tech industry's intricate ties with politics. Plus, experts examine the evolving requirements for home and office networking speeds leading into 2025, and the transition to 10 gigabit networks unleashes insights on future connectivity advancements.