Huawei’s ‘Better Than Linux Kernel’, CP/M OS, Firefox as Deb and More

Linux news

Huawei has propped up a contender against the Linux kernel, it is called “Harmony kernel” with some pretty big claims.

Huawei Claims They Have Something Better Than The Linux Kernel. Huawei is known for its interesting innovations in smartphone tech. So, it is an intriguing claim.

Huawei’s introduction of the “Harmony kernel” represents a significant development in the world of operating systems, particularly as a potential contender against the well-established Linux kernel. This move reflects the ongoing diversification and evolution in operating system technology, driven by changing market needs and technological advancements.

Overview of Harmony Kernel

1. Background: Huawei developed the Harmony kernel as part of its HarmonyOS (Hongmeng OS in China), initially in response to trade restrictions and the need for an independent operating system for its devices. HarmonyOS is designed to be a cross-platform operating system, suitable for a wide range of devices from smartphones to IoT devices.
2. Design Philosophy: The Harmony kernel is built with a microkernel architecture, which is fundamentally different from the monolithic architecture of the Linux kernel. A microkernel is designed to run minimal services in the kernel space, aiming for better modularity, security, and reliability. This architecture can potentially offer improved performance and security compared to traditional monolithic kernels.
3. Compatibility and Development: HarmonyOS and its kernel are designed to be highly compatible with various applications, including those written for Android and Linux. This compatibility could be a significant factor in its adoption, as it lowers the barrier for developers to port or develop applications for HarmonyOS.

Claims and Potential Advantages

1. Performance: Huawei claims that the Harmony kernel can deliver high-performance operation, which is crucial for a wide range of devices, especially in the IoT and mobile device markets where resource efficiency is key.
2. Security: The microkernel architecture inherently allows for better security features. By running fewer services in the kernel space, there’s a reduced risk of system-wide crashes or security breaches.
3. Cross-Platform Capabilities: One of the most significant claims about HarmonyOS and its kernel is its cross-platform nature, designed to work across a diverse range of devices. This universality could be a game-changer in the IoT era, where a multitude of devices require seamless integration and interoperability.

Implications for Web Developers and Server Administrators

1. Web Development: For web developers, the rise of a new operating system kernel like Harmony could mean adapting web applications to ensure compatibility and performance on HarmonyOS devices. This might involve testing and optimizing for different browsers and environments that run on HarmonyOS.
2. Server Administration: While HarmonyOS is primarily aimed at consumer devices, its impact on server administration will depend on its adoption in server environments. If HarmonyOS expands into servers, administrators might need to adapt to its security model, performance characteristics, and administration tools.
3. Digital Marketing and SEO: The proliferation of devices running HarmonyOS could influence digital marketing strategies. Marketers might need to ensure that online content is optimized for HarmonyOS users, particularly in regions with a high concentration of Huawei device users.

Conclusion

The Harmony kernel, as part of Huawei’s HarmonyOS, is a bold step into a domain dominated by established players like the Linux kernel. Its success will depend on various factors, including developer adoption, performance in real-world scenarios, and how well it integrates with existing technology ecosystems. For professionals in web development, server administration, and digital marketing, it’s a development worth monitoring, as its impact could become more significant as the technology matures and gains market presence.

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scp Command Examples in LinuxUse the flexibility of an SSH connection to transfer files with scp command.

The scp (secure copy) command in Linux is a powerful tool for securely transferring files and directories between two locations over an SSH connection. It leverages the security of SSH to ensure that the data being transferred is encrypted and secure. This is particularly useful for website developers and server administrators who often need to transfer files to and from servers.

Here are some practical examples of how to use the scp command. These examples assume that you are familiar with the command line and have SSH access to the remote server.

Basic Syntax

The basic syntax of the scp command is:

• OPTION: scp options such as cipher, ssh configuration, ssh port, limit, recursive copy, etc.
• SRC_HOST, DEST_HOST: Source and destination hosts (can be an IP address or a hostname).
• user: Username on the host. If omitted, it assumes the current user’s username.
• file1, file2: Source and destination files.

1. Copying a File from Local to Remote

To copy a file from your local machine to a remote server:

This command will copy file.txt from the local machine to the specified directory on remotehost.

2. Copying a File from Remote to Local

To copy a file from a remote server to your local machine:

This command will copy file.txt from remotehost to the specified directory on your local machine.

3. Copying a Directory Recursively

To copy an entire directory from one location to another, use the -r option:

This command recursively copies the directory and its contents to the remote host.

4. Specifying a Port

If SSH on the remote host listens on a non-standard port, use the -P option:

This command uses port 2222 for the SSH connection.

5. Using a Specific SSH Key

If you need to specify a particular SSH key, use the -i option:

6. Verbose Output

For debugging or more detailed output, use the -v option:

7. Limiting Bandwidth Usage

To limit the bandwidth used by scp, use the -l option:

This limits the bandwidth to 1024 Kbit/s.

8. Preserving File Attributes

To preserve file attributes such as timestamps and permissions, use the -p option:

Conclusion

The scp command is a versatile tool for securely transferring files between systems over an SSH connection. Its integration with SSH means it benefits from the same level of security and can be used in scripts and automated processes, making it an invaluable tool for website developers and server administrators. Remember to replace username, remotehost, and file paths with the actual user names, host names/IP addresses, and paths relevant to your use case.

Bill takes a look at how CP/M shaped personal computing as we know it today.

The Impact of CP/M on Personal Computing: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

In the annals of personal computing, few operating systems have had as profound an impact as CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers). Developed by Gary Kildall in 1974, CP/M played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of personal computing as we know it today. This article delves into the historical significance, technical innovations, and lasting legacy of CP/M in the realm of personal computing.

The Genesis of CP/M

CP/M emerged in an era when personal computing was in its nascent stages. Computers were predominantly large, expensive mainframes and minicomputers, inaccessible to the general public. Gary Kildall’s CP/M revolutionised this landscape by providing an operating system that could run on microcomputers, which were more affordable and accessible to hobbyists and small businesses.

Key Features and Technical Innovations

1. File Management System: CP/M introduced a hierarchical file management system that became a blueprint for future operating systems. Its ability to handle files in a structured manner was revolutionary at the time.
2. Separation of Hardware and Software: CP/M’s architecture separated the operating system from the hardware, using a layer called the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). This abstraction allowed CP/M to run on a wide range of hardware platforms, setting a precedent for future operating systems.
3. Command-Line Interface: CP/M featured a command-line interface (CLI), which was a standard method of interaction in early operating systems. This CLI was the precursor to DOS (Disk Operating System) and later Windows command line.
4. Programming and Development: CP/M supported several programming languages, most notably BASIC and assembly language. This made it a popular platform for software development and contributed to the growth of the software industry.

CP/M’s Role in the Personal Computer Revolution

CP/M played a crucial role in the personal computer revolution of the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was the operating system of choice for many of the early microcomputers, including the Altair 8800 and Osborne 1. CP/M’s widespread adoption can be attributed to its portability across different hardware platforms, a feature that was rare at the time.

The Influence on Subsequent Operating Systems

The influence of CP/M is most notably seen in MS-DOS, Microsoft’s operating system which became the foundation for the PC revolution. MS-DOS borrowed heavily from CP/M’s command-line interface and file management system. The resemblance was so pronounced that it led to legal disputes between Microsoft and Digital Research, the company founded by Kildall to market CP/M.

CP/M’s Decline and Legacy

CP/M’s dominance began to wane with the rise of MS-DOS and the IBM PC in the early 1980s. However, its legacy endures in several ways:

1. Foundation for Future Operating Systems: CP/M laid the groundwork for the development of future operating systems, particularly in terms of user interface and file management.
2. Inspiration for Software Development: The operating system’s support for various programming languages fostered a generation of software developers and contributed to the burgeoning software industry.
3. Cultural Impact: CP/M holds a place in computing history as one of the pioneering operating systems that democratised computing, moving it from the realm of corporations and academia to the general public.

Conclusion

In retrospect, CP/M’s contribution to personal computing is monumental. It not only introduced technical innovations that became staples in later operating systems but also played a crucial role in the personal computer revolution, paving the way for the ubiquity of personal computing today. While newer technologies have long since eclipsed CP/M, its influence is indelibly etched in the DNA of modern computing systems. As we continue to advance in the digital age, it’s important to acknowledge and appreciate these foundational technologies that have shaped our online world.

A quick tip on finding the passwords of your old wifi connections.

If you’re looking to retrieve passwords for old Wi-Fi connections on a Windows computer, there’s a straightforward method you can use. This process involves using the Command Prompt. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Retrieving Old Wi-Fi Passwords on Windows

Prerequisites

• You must have administrative privileges on your computer.
• The computer should have been connected to the Wi-Fi network in the past.

Steps

1. Open Command Prompt with Admin Rights:
   • Press Win + R, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter. This opens the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
   • Alternatively, search for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu, right-click on it, and select “Run as administrator”.
2. List All Saved Wi-Fi Profiles:
   • In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:
     sqlCopy code

     netsh wlan show profiles

   • This command lists all the Wi-Fi networks (profiles) your computer has connected to in the past.
3. Find the Password of a Specific Wi-Fi Network:
   • Once you identify the Wi-Fi network whose password you want to find, use the following command (replace NETWORK_NAME with the actual name of the network):
     arduinoCopy code

     netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORK_NAME" key=clear

   • Scroll down to the Security settings section in the results. The password (if available) will be displayed next to Key Content.

Important Notes

• This method only works for networks you’ve connected to previously with that specific Windows device.
• The passwords are not retrievable if the network settings have been explicitly removed or if the system has undergone certain types of resets or reinstallation.
• Always handle Wi-Fi passwords and other sensitive data responsibly to maintain network security.

Conclusion

This technique is particularly useful for IT professionals, digital agency workers, or anyone who frequently connects to various Wi-Fi networks and needs to recall passwords for these connections. It’s a simple yet effective way to access your network credentials when you need to reconnect devices or share the network with others, while also being a good example of practical command-line utility in Windows.

Floorp is a nice Firefox fork that claims to be the most advanced Firefox derivative.

Floorp Browser: Is It The Most Advanced Cross-Platform Firefox Derivative?Let’s take a look at another interesting Firefox fork, Floorp.

Floorp, a Firefox fork, has garnered attention in the web browsing community for its claim to be the most advanced derivative of Mozilla’s popular Firefox browser. To understand this claim, it’s essential to delve into what makes Floorp distinct, how it compares to the original Firefox, and the implications for users like web developers, server administrators, and digital marketing professionals.

Overview of Floorp

1. Origin and Development: Floorp is developed by a separate team from Mozilla, the organization behind Firefox. This team has taken the open-source code of Firefox and modified it to create Floorp, adding features and making changes they believe enhance the browser.
2. Target Audience: While Firefox targets a broad audience, Floorp may be more focused on users who seek advanced features or specific enhancements not available in the standard Firefox browser.

Key Features and Enhancements

1. Performance Improvements: Floorp developers might have optimized the browser for better speed and efficiency. This could include enhanced memory management, faster page loading times, and smoother multimedia playback.
2. Security Features: Given the importance of security in web browsing, Floorp may offer advanced security features. These could range from improved tracking protection to enhanced encryption methods.
3. Customization and User Interface: One area where Floorp could stand out is in its customization options. It might offer more extensive UI customization tools, allowing users to tailor their browsing experience more finely than in Firefox.
4. Extensions and Compatibility: Floorp likely maintains compatibility with the wide range of extensions available to Firefox users, possibly adding its own exclusive extensions or enhanced support for existing ones.

Implications for Web Developers and Digital Marketers

1. Browser Compatibility Testing: As a web developer or digital agency professional, it’s crucial to ensure websites are compatible with a range of browsers. The emergence of Floorp adds another variable to this testing process. Understanding its rendering engine and any deviations from Firefox is key.
2. SEO and Online Marketing: For those involved in SEO and online marketing, understanding how Floorp handles search queries, user privacy, and tracking can impact strategies. If Floorp gains significant market share, it could influence search engine optimization tactics and online advertising approaches.
3. Security Considerations: Given that Floorp may have different security features compared to Firefox, web developers need to ensure that their sites are secure and function correctly across both browsers.
4. Performance Optimization: If Floorp offers improved performance, websites and online applications should be tested and optimized for this environment to ensure they leverage the browser’s capabilities.

Conclusion

While Floorp’s claim to be the most advanced Firefox derivative is subjective and depends on individual user needs and preferences, it undoubtedly represents an interesting development in the web browser landscape. For professionals in web development, hosting, and digital marketing, keeping abreast of such developments is crucial. Understanding the nuances of different browsers, including forks like Floorp, can provide a competitive edge and ensure a high-quality user experience across all platforms.

As the browser continues to evolve, it will be interesting to monitor its adoption rate and the specific features that set it apart from its progenitor, Firefox. For those deeply involved in the online world, such as yourself, exploring and understanding these tools is not just a matter of curiosity but a vital part of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.