And I will tell you why. I actually like the NT kernel and architecture. I think it is well designed, and works great when built upon properly. I think Windows 2000 is the probably the best consumer OS ever made, even though Microsoft pointed it at business users. It's what I run, and likely will not switch from, except for (maybe) running XP in a VM to run some games.
Alright, stepping in, and ignoring your apparently obligatory bash MS subject heading (seems to be par for the course on/.), let's take a look at this. Windows 2000 the best consumer OS ever made? Are you even aware of the issues it has? Was it better than NT 4? Absolutely! Was it better than NT 3.51, 98, 98SE, (95 and ME are so out that they are left off)? Definitely! Better than XP?! Not a chance.
A few things. 1. how about on a default install (which most users are going to do, and lets face it, that's the "consumer" that you MUST consider, and saying "consumer OS" you're talking about the average user for the most part) having not one, but 2 ADMINISTRATOR accounts with BLANK passwords (users generally just hit enter, though they are getting SLIGHTLY better about that) that CAN LOG ON REMOTELY. Hidden Admin shares (which I love, I use the hell out of them!), hell even telnet, remote registry, and terminal server, all can be accessed via an Admin account with a blank password from a default Win 2k Pro install.
XP? NOPE! An Administrative account on a default install of XP (Home or Pro) witha blank password is RESTRICTED to local logon ONLY. Windows XP (all these are true, but especially true for Pro) handles memory addressing better, scales better, performs faster (in nearly every regard, especially in terms of file system tasks), offers much better networking options, performance, etc. I loved 2000. I really did. And I love XP Pro (until Vista Beta 2 I ran nothing else, aside from the few times I've tinkered with Linux out of boredom). Nearly everything about XP is better than 2000. Personally, I hate XP Home, I think it's garbage. But it STILL offers BETTER security and performance than 2000. Am I saying it's "SECURE"? Nope! Simply MORE secure THAN.
But even with 2000, MS had to insert their boneheaded ideas in it. For example, with "Windows File Protection," which is really the sfc.exe ("System FIle Checker") and sfcfiles.dll (The actual list of files to be protected, stuck in a DLL) it gives an Admin NO WAY to add to or change which files are protected. And it includes things like PINBALL.EXE!!! in the list of protected, undeletable system files. And creates stupid things like "C:\Program Files\microsoft frontpage" when I DO NOT even have Frontpage or IIS installed. And unless you disable SFC (which I did) it will re-create the stupid directory on every re-boot. So what COULD HAVE BEEN a useful feature is more like a "let MS Admin your computer for you" feature, because there is no way for the owner of the computer to manage which files are protected under "Windows File Protection." And guess what, on COMPUTERS I OWN, **I** like to control what directories are created and where they are placed. It's MY computer!!!
I take it from this brilliant statement that you've never installed some 3rd party app/game/util/etc that replaced a nifty HEAVILY used system dll file, or even a dll file that just happens to be shared between several apps, with their own buggy POS that made your whole system unstable. Happened a LOT in 95/98. There's a REASON Microsoft included that. It actually *GASP* was a good IDEA FOR THE AVERAGE USER! Consider the BACKBONE of this industry is THE AVERAGE USER. They are the reason people like us EXIST. Someone has to keep TEHIR stuff running. I don't care if you're a Network Admin, Server Admin, Security Analyst, Network Engineer, Software Developer, or whatever, EVERYTHING you do, at it's base, is because of the Average USER. MS knows that Average user doesn't know #W%*&^ about dll files
Just a quick snippet. You quoted me quite accurately, however I believe you missed my point. Please allow me to emphasize another spot in that line.
I wrote:
Anyone using a public terminal and transmitting/receiving any type of personal information in one way or another, is playing russian roulette with their information.
You're absolutely correct. I did not say anything about "Most people" in that line. I said ANYONE. But I also said Anyone on a PUBLIC TERMINAL etc. etc.
And on a public terminal, it is russian roullette. Have you any idea the security precautions taken on said terminal? Put in place by said administration? Many public terminals have poor administration, and aren't exactly secure (not by any REAL sense of the word). As for personal systems, like I said most people don't have too much to worry about with a few key security items being kept in mind. Practicality becomes a problem, and unless they're being specifically targeted for some reason (in which case generally it's simpler to just walk up, lay the smack down, and take off with said computer equipment), can be reasonably confident that their information is at least secure from the average joe.
What they should really be worried about is that pesky person standing in the Espresso line taking pictures with his cell phone of your screen as you view your bank account information.
K, maybe that one is a tad overboard, but you get my point. I think.
as for my points, I was merely pointing out the irony of many people talking about how bullet-proof non-MS OSes were. I simply did a quick search, copied the first few links, went to a favorite security site, linked a few August Advisories, and left it at that.
My only problem is when people are like "OMG, Windows is teh suck! Use (insert fanboyism favored OS here) it's totally secure!"
The reality is the majority of users don't know how to setup up *nix without leaving holes gaping wide. As for Mac OSX, it's way better at that than *nix has ever been. As good as Windows? That remains to be seen. The next few years will tell an interesting story, especially with Macs being a tad more open compatability-wise than they once were. The door is open. The question is will the proverbial floodgates (as I believe) burst (provided Macs gain massive marketshare, which I believe they will)? Or will MS (their OS arm) go down in a ball of fiery wreckage as a superior OS, and viable alternative, finally dethrone Windows?
As for which OS I would rather crack. Well, as I said, depends on who set it up. Someone who knows how to secure Windows can make a pretty intimidating target. I myself have offered people money before to crack my systems, only to have them fail one by one, and give up (last time I did this was with 2k Pro before any Service Packs).
Additionally, I do not know as much about cracking a *nix system, as I do a Windows system. If the target is one where there is another way to get information (i.e. social engineering, et al.), that will help tremendously. Just from an experience standpoint, I'd have to go with a Windows system, because it is WHAT I KNOW.
All things being equal (i.e. knowledge, ability, setups, et al.) I think I'd rather crack an open source OS. After all, if I can see the source code, I'm a bajillion times more likely to find a security glitch that I can take advantage of. Please note that I said ALL things being equal. I'm not a programmer, I couldn't see the difference between a buffer overflow vulnerability, or a "run as root" type of vulnerability when it comes to identifying it in code. If I were a programmer, I might be able to.
However, yes the answer to your question, as it stands, is Windows. If I knew *nix instead of Windows, I'd be going after those, because regardless of how secure they are, you have a better chance of cracking something you know, than something you don't.
So what they're REALLY saying is this:
"Ok, you're right, we messed up. We shouild have been on sight to make sure that everything goes according to plan, and so that those nice spiffy 'errors' aren't seen by the staff to raise integrity questions later. How silly of us."
Governments around the world begin looking at ways to add gene changing retro-viruses to their nations' water supplies.
If the public is always happy no matter what you do, you can get away with anything.
Hell just look at how much governments get away with when they're making everyone mad. Imagine if those same people were bubbly happy cheerful all the time. Forget open season. It'd never end. It would just be play-time (for them). And we wouldn't know the difference.
Obligatory comment:
I for one welcome our new seratonin bringing overlords.
Nope, all those systems, in fact, antyhing but Windows is absolutely bulletproof. Yeap.
So, who's going to jump on the bandwagon with me and bash Microsoft because it's cool? Nevermind that these other products have flaws too, we'll just bash MS so much that no one will ever know we have problems over here with *nix systems and with MacOSX.
4096-bit RSA for key exchange. Blowfish for stream encryption. lzo compression before encryption.
How long will that take to break? I think we're approaching theoretical impossibility.
As I stated, certain types of wireless encryption may be impossible from a practicality standpoint, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Will you be Brute Forcing the key? Not bloody likely. Get a few dozen super high end machines just crunching numers to get the key, and you MIGHT get lucky and stumble onto it in the next 10 years or so.
However, if you HAVE part of the key, detailed algorithm infomation, or some other type of crucial piece for that puzzle, that can cut the time significantly.
And how many packets can you really capture?
How many can you send?
As for the rest, johnny public isn't the one that needs to worry about someone sniffing out their information.
It's the Corporate entities that like to use wireless networks in their buildings, and transmit sensitive information over them.
How many retail stores do you think have UNSECURED wireless networks that, at some point, are connected at some level to their registers? Transaction information?
If they're secured, cool. How many are using 4096-bit RSA? Most are using either standard b/g routers that you can get on retail shelves, or a cheap solution provided by a corporation that provides networking equipment specifically designed for large businesses. Now of those using the latter, how many do you suppose are using equipment that is EASILY 5 years old, if not more?
I was once part of an upgrade team for a rather large retailer, getting all their nice little routers interfaced with T1 lines that had been freshly installed. WAN cards were missing from the majority of the routers. Surprisingly enough, a good portion of the networking equipment was around 8 years old. I even recall seeing one machine still running NT 3.51 (Can't imaging how that could still be licensed and not costing an arm and a leg, but meh, who am i to judge?
"The use of information technology in government administration bodies is increasingly becoming important. So far, most of the software we use is proprietary software, so we cannot modify or complement it, or link software from different vendors. These software products impose rigid commercial conditions of use and limit our possibilities. In this way, government administration bodies may be led into a dependent position on the supplier of the software. This could lead to closed information systems, which make the success and efficiency of our eAdministration project more difficult.
Translation: We can't spy on you as easily with closed applications that we can't modify to include auto-reporting, screenshot captures, web-logs, etc. Well, not without adding something like logging software.
Here it is folks. Anyone using a public terminal and transmitting/receiving any type of personal information in one way or another, is playing russian roulette with their information.
As for Wireless networks. Look, if it's broadcast, ANYONE, can pick it up. The right person, with the right skills, and the right motivation, and the right amount of time, can do whatever they want with the contents of said broadcast.
Your cell phone conversations are not secure, your computer's files and transmissions over a wireless network are not secure. Granted cracking certain types of wireless encryption may be impossible from a practicle standpoint, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Capture the packets, and crack them at your leisure.
Want security? Stick with Ethernet, just don't let anyone too close to the cables, or the equipment.
The RIAA begins researching ways to silence this insolent artist who seems hellbent on allowing people to access music (even if it IS his music) for free. They've been cheated out of their share.
The following were just decided on by the super secret RIAA meeting on financial vengeance.
Step 1. Get Angry
Step 2. Talk about how you're cheated.
Step 3. Sue Wierd Al and anyone who downloads the song (it says explicitly do NOT download the song,. it's in the title!)
Step 4. ????
Step 5. Profit!
I am reminded of the RIAA screaming that they were dying because of Napster when it was big. So many people pirating music, so easily, so readily. Think of the artists! Nevermind that record sales during those times were triple what they had ever been, and they were showing continued growth.
However, i don't think this is the same scenario, because video game sales (in revenue) have been decreasing, with only a few companies showing growth. EA is one such company . This site Suggests sales are UP overall as an industry. Now then, are these companies showing growth because they are harder to pirate? Doubtful, as it doesn't seem to matter to piracy inclined people how difficult a game is to pirate, they will do it. So we must look at the content of the games, the originality, stability, re-play aspects, etc.
A game can be spectacular, like Fable but if it has 0 re-play value, don't expect a whole lot. On the other hand, games like TES: Arena (The very fist game in The Elder Scroll Series), TES: Daggerfall, TES: Morrowind, and TES: Oblivion (though I've yet to play Oblivion, can't as of yet afford it), will NEVER go out of style, because they have enormous re-play value. Many of these games you can go through twice, and with the exception of a few main plot-line quests (if you even decide to do those), it will be a totally different game. Games like THAT, are what's missing. Everything is a clearcut path to victory. A clear beginning, and a clear end. This is good for some people, who aren't interested so much in a story, or good gameplay, as they are in just killing stuff to unwind from a long day. But to the gamers, a gamer must have substance. there must be something to it. FPS games are a dime a dozen, RTS games have almost become that, but MMO, and RPG games are doing so well because they can be played radically differently. Clearcut easy games have their place no doubt. But if the gaming industry really wants to reclaim it's 1999-2000 throne of $$$$$, it's going to have to do something about it's content.
And on a side note, if piracy is really killing the PC Gaming industry this badly, why hasn't MS gone under yet from piracy of Windows, Office, their PC Games, and the myriad of other software that they sell, all of which ends up being pirated. MS Seems to be doing OK, in spite of the piracy they are faced with. And how many of you posting here are using XP Corporate, or a copy with wpa killed? I'd wager it's a pretty fair amount. *Shrug* It's just common. It's a reality of business in software. I haven't paid for a copy of Windows in several years, and yet every copy that I do run is totally legit. MS doesn't seem to be hurting for it (even with massive fines from various sources). So one has to wonder, is the PC Gaming industry REALLY in trouble because of piracy? Or are they in trouble for something else, and they're choosing to blame piracy as a scapebgoat? It's better to be seen as a victim, than as lazy and unimaginative.
M$'s behavior and the results are entirely predictable by this point. They want to own the market so they are withholding what others need. As in every case of M$ putting a "competitor" out of business, the Windoze market will be that much poorer when the competitors are all gone. All everyone is left with is the decidedly inferior M$ offering which will subsequently be neglected and suck more and more as time goes by.
So, by that logic, let's consider the following. Linux IS a competitor for MS in the OS market. The home Market as well as server. Linux is provided for free (most distros), and people can pay for tech support if needed. Given the knowledge of the user base, Linux stands to make a lot of money giving Tech Support (hopefully not in the form of "RTFM YOU N00B!"). Even if computers are not coming with Linux pre-installed, it's a free download.
So what's stopping people from doing it? Is Microsoft standing over every User's shoulder saying "I'll kill you if you download that."?
So what about Car Alarms (to use your analogy). Or paying extra for the bonus "Security Monitoring" (In case my car is stolen)? These things are the FAULT of the manufacturer? Not at all. It is the fault of the poeple targeting them.
Same thing applies here. And all this talk of Virus/Spyware problems being so rampant, explain how I run with 0 protection (minus the Windows Firewall) and have 0 infections, 0 computer issues, and 0 security problems? Someone mentioned that in the ser4ver arena, there are far more protection systems in place, and COMPETENT users behind the wheel. In the home PC market, this is not the case. That was a very good point. I am far from a "User" when it comes to Windows, and hence I never have any issues. The one time in the last 2 years that I've had ANY issues, was from a vulnerability in Java, that wasn't even related to a MS product at all. (At the time, I was playing around with FireFox).
Windows XP Pro (SP2)
Internet Explorer (sometimes I get bored and run IE7 beta)
NO Virus Protection
NO Spyware Protection
_____________________
0 Issues
As for someone replying to the server thing with asking why those problems don't exist in linuxland as they do in Windows land, the answer came before the question. Windows = Massive Home Market Share in the hands of the "User"
Linux is used by VERY VERY few "Users", and those that do encounter massive problems and headaches (though mostly related to HW/SW compatability/ease of use).
Windows has the lion's share, and definitely has mostly a "User" base, and therefore is a prime target. That was my point.
Spybot and AdAware may not necessarily care (other than perhaps people not getting the "Pro" version, or donating). But what of companies like Webroot, eTrust, and others the rely very heavily on Anti-Spyware software sales for their revenue?
And my mentioning of Spybot and AdAware were to keep people from crying foul about MS offering their bundled spyware protection for free. I can see both sides of that argument, and each side has a fairly compelling case.
As long as there is porn, easily accessible software piracy, and users who are careless, there will be Malware issues (to include Virus/Trojan/Adware/Spyware/et al) a-plenty.
I really wish that Microsoft disappeared from the OS market for just a short time. Not one computer running Windows (or perhaps at most a niche market with roughly 5% share). Then suddenly Windows won't have security holes. Then it will be Linux, MacOS, or whatever happens to control the lion's share of the market, which will be plagued by security grief.
Of course those would likely get blamed on "Evil Hackers and Coders" as opposed to the company(pluralize if necessary) putting out the OS.
Face it, Microsoft is at the top, and hence, is villified. They're not doing a horrible job, all things considered. Mod me down, Flame me for being a "fangirl", whatever.
The simple truth of the matter is that there is NOTHING wrong with MS making an Anti-Virus, and Anti-Spyware solution for it's customers. Bundling them FREE with Windows? Yes that can be a problem. I'm actually sort of on the fence about MS's Anti-Spyware software coming installed with Vista. I don't think that's fair. If they want to offer it free, that's fine (don't cry foul unless you're prepared to tell Spoybot, AdAware, et al that they can't provide free software either). Bundling it with Windows? I don't like it. Microsoft offers their Virus Protection as a FOR PAY product, meaning people have to spend money on it. It's hardly unfair to companies like Symantec or McAfee, or Trend Micro for that matter. It's simply a competing product.
As for non-disclosure agreements, and intellectual property rights and such, this is nothing new, and is practiced by just about EVERYONE in the information business. I remember being incensed when Yahoo bought geocities, and the TOS agreement changed so that Yahoo suddenly owned ANY AND ALL CONTENT that you hosted on their servers. Without ever agreeing to a new TOS when the company changed hands. THAT ticked me off. Yahoo tried using some images I'd painstakingly made, and were profiting off of them, even though they had been hosted at geocities, and the TOS at the time (that I had agreed to) left the rights and ownership to me. Yahoo essentially swiped them (but was at least kind enough to simply delete my account after I threatened them with legal action, and they stopped using my images).
Been this way for a long time. From a Windows standpoint I've been flying. I'm from from a "User" in Windows, and have never had an issue with an AMD/ATI combo. In fact, I prefer that over anything else.
From a Linux standpoint I'm definitely a "User". Don't know my way around too well, but can generally infer thingsw well enough from various man pages, walkthroughs, and a few google searches now and again. While ATI's performance is certainly lackluster under Linux, it's not horrible, and tends to be more stable, at least for me, than nVidia.
Perhaps I've the 1 in a billion HW config that works well under both Windows and Linux. *Shrug*
Either way, seeing AMD and ATI jumping into bed together is very good. Regardless of whether or not you like the two companies, you have to acknowledge that BOTH of these companies have fostered a great deal of innovation over the years, and working together, will only foster more. There were ATI vs nVidia priuce/innovation wars some years ago, just as there was an ongoing AMD vs Intel war. In the end, it always benefits us, and ultimately, the companies involved (though one invariably has to come out losing eventually, change its tactics, regain some footing, and get right back in). I can't wait to see what happens when this powerhouse really starts ramping things up.
I just hope that ATI's cards don't go away. There has been speculation of this helping AMD counter the Centrino type stuff. Admittedly, that'd be great, but when was the last time you saw an Intel Video Card up for sale? Certainly can't find them in retail stores. Hopefully ATI continues as a name, and producer, and simply adds their capabilities to AMD's dev teams, and vice-versa.
My thoughts
Let's think about this. These tools are exceedingly useful, and the developers of these tools show an uncanny ability to work within the Windows OS to get things done. Before anyone tries to say "WTF, it's windows, my dog could do it" or (insert disparaging comment here), I say only this. Why didn't YOU do it, and get the money for the sellout (or just point and laugh at MS as they try and aquire you).
With that out of the way. Let's move on. The reason for this aquisition is pretty simple. Business. Good business. Whatever their TRUE reasons, I suspect it has something to do with A. Licensing. (I'm sure someone here thinks that perhaps a few MS employees utilize some of this software?). B. It's better for them to be working WITH MS, and improving Windows, than potentially for a competitor.
I don't think these tools are going away. More likely, they (in one form or another) will eventually be incorporated in various "Resource Kits" which are already PUBLICLY available for download (anyone here ever use robocopy? I do, and love it, fantastic command line copy utility). Why? Because it's GOOD BUSINESS. MS may be many things, but it is, first and foremost, a BUSINESS. Bent on world domination maybe, but a business nonetheless...
I for one welcome our new Microsoft/WinInternals Overlords.
Part of the disparity is a difference of interests.
Part of that is from social programming.
Part of it is the stigma around "Women & Technology".
Part of it is the annoyance of being looked at as an oddity, or a novelty, instead of a talented and competent co-worker.
There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed here. While I personally seriously doubt that we will ever make up even 35% of the IT/CS workforce, we are growing, and quickly. As the years pass, more and more of us are getting into this field. Know something else that's changed in the last even just 10 years that (imho) has helped facilitate this? Women ARE getting into the (IT/CS) workforce, and ARE thriving, and ARE visible. This gives children real role models to use. It's really no different than seeing athletes for kids that just naturally have an affinity for sports. They realize they CAN do something, so they hbold onto that dream, as opposed to letting it wither and die forgotten amongst their toys and imaginations when they enter into adulthood.
We are greatly rewarding mediocre women in engineering fields due to their low numbers, but we aren't doing the same for men in other fields.
I don't think it's necessarily mediocre people that are being gone after, but more of a 'new blood' approach to bring people in.
As for "What about men?". Well, when I look at the people I work with (all male) and they're all making at LEAST $3/hr MORE than I am (One of them is still in high school for Christ's sake!), and I get on average, nearly twice the amount of work done, their productivity is measured against mine to scorecard them (I'm not even scorecarded anymore, it's pointless because I'm always on top). Well, forgive me for rolling my eyes when I hear someone try and say something about us getting an 'unfair' advantage becase we're a minority in a given field.
Will people slip through the cracks? You bet. Will there be people put there that shouldn't be there? Absolutely. Is it perfect? Newp! Is it better than nothing? Definitely.
Of course we could keep pretending there isn't a problem, and it might eventually go away. Maybe I should go back to the kitchen too. IT is obviously Man's work. What was I thinking?
Sorry boys, we're here to stay. Want in on a little secret? We've more financial/economic power than most people think. Some companies are keying in on this, and product/service shifts are occuring because of this. Personally I think it will be interesting to see how the next few years unfold.
Funny, I've recovered things that had been written over (wasn't exactl easy, and a good deal of it was unusable, though it seemed that text files had a better chance of being immediately usable).
Cue Bush, along with a few other random politicians screaming about "activist Judges."
"We are appaled by this decision. Including Rock and Paper in a decidedly Scissors arena is yet another tactic by activist judges trying to legislate from the bench. They keep pushing this kind of alternate agenda down our throats. Alternate Dispute Settlement indeed! Keep your Rock and Paper away from my Scissors. We don't need that kinda stuff here!"
This isn't a double standard by any means. It's what many call the "American standard".
This man's first offense was not being a corporation. His second was daring to question the actions of corporations.
The standards are quite clearly set. Individuals are not allowed to take a stance against corporations or their actions. Corporate greed trumps all. It's very evident how the system works.
Welcome to Capitalism. The American Way!
Yay for Capitalism. Send me your money!
I happen to like ATI quite a bit. I think a merger between AMD and ATI is a bit far fetched, though certianly some kind of close-knit partnership is definitely within the realm of possibility.
I replaced a Geforce2 With a Radeon 7500 and have NEVER looked back. I had a very bad experience with nVidia, and went to ATI and have been very impressed with the performance, versatility, and overall capabilities of the cards that I've had. I run Windows primarily. I also run Linux. Both my laptop and Desktop have ATI cards in them. Under Linux the performance isn't the best, but I don't game in Linux either. Here's the key though: It's getting better.
Compare the driver updates, fixes, patches, corrections, tweaks, etc. released by ATI in even just the last 6 months compared with nVidia. ATI may not be the best for a Linux system, but they're at least working on it (which is more than can be said for a LOT of companies that have hardware and/or software products which give lackluster performance, if any at all, under Linux).
I prefer ATI because they're cheaper, and in my experience, perform better than nVidia cards. Also, ATI makes the card, AND the chipset. I like that in a video card.
My thoughts
What's interesting to me is the whole Windows vs Linux argument esp on HW support. People claim it's sooooo much easier in Linux (which I hadn't heard until in the last year or so).
Maybe I'm missing something. Yes I'm a Windows freak-a-zoid. There are VERY VERY limited amounts of Hardware that I couldn't get working in Windows (I've yet to run into one).
Linux? Plenty of Hardware that I can't get to work, or was impossibly difficult/involved to get working. To give you an example, a very good friend of mine (Who happens to also do dev work for Gentoo) helped me get Gentoo up and running on my laptop. The biggest pain (and the main part I could not get on my own, nevermind all the boot up errors, I'm not great with Linux, but am trying to learn) was the wireless card. Guess what? The wireless cards integrated with most laptops are lame pieces of crap with horrible driver support REGARDLESS of OS. For Win XP it took me 15 minutes to get a driver for it. It was pretty easy. COuld it be because I'm a Windows Guru? Maybe. But really it wasn't that hard to go to Gateway's website and download a driver (even used the onbard NIC for that, thanks Windows!). Linux doesn't, can't, won't recognize the card at all. My friend had to reverse engineer a driver for an Acer laptop which uses a similar card to get the darned thing working. It functions, but it's about as lame (as in crippled) as a leper with food poisoning.
It took him over 12 hours to get that wireless card working. When the USER can go to Best Buy, pick up a scanner, plug it in, and it works. Maybe load some software off a disk, in Linux, then I will say it's HW support is just as good as Windows. People blast Windows because it's the "Cool" thing to do. Linux drivers aren't standardized. If they were, it's support would be a LOT better. Bottom line is they both do a good job FOR HOW THEY'RE MADE! If you're a Linux guru sure, I bet you can get just about anything working near perfectly in Linux. Me, I can get just about anything working near perfectly in Windows. Just because you don't know something, isn't a reason to blast it.
However looking at things from an objective point of view, Windows provides a very standardized platform for device drivers. Win9x drivers would work for almsot any version of Win9x. XP/2k/NT drivers were fairly good at being interchangeable (sometimes NT had issues with the newer ones). XP drivers will, for the most part, work in Vista. Will it be buggy? For some things yea. It's unavoidable when you cross platforms like that. WIll it work? Yeap. Is that good? You bet! And before anyone decides to point out a hypocracy in that (talking about my wireless card for Linux) the driver used was from a different device all together that finally got it working (after it was modified). Not quite the same. Using drivers for different devices is sometimes the only option, and it's better than nothing. Linux gets a bravo because my HW actually DOES work in it after some work. Windows is the same way. Period, end of story.
On an unrelated note, I wonder if anyone has noted the irony in this guy working for MSNBC? NBC + MS. I think it's kinda funny.
Slashdot Mirror
Alright, stepping in, and ignoring your apparently obligatory bash MS subject heading (seems to be par for the course on /.), let's take a look at this. Windows 2000 the best consumer OS ever made? Are you even aware of the issues it has? Was it better than NT 4? Absolutely! Was it better than NT 3.51, 98, 98SE, (95 and ME are so out that they are left off)? Definitely! Better than XP?! Not a chance.
A few things. 1. how about on a default install (which most users are going to do, and lets face it, that's the "consumer" that you MUST consider, and saying "consumer OS" you're talking about the average user for the most part) having not one, but 2 ADMINISTRATOR accounts with BLANK passwords (users generally just hit enter, though they are getting SLIGHTLY better about that) that CAN LOG ON REMOTELY. Hidden Admin shares (which I love, I use the hell out of them!), hell even telnet, remote registry, and terminal server, all can be accessed via an Admin account with a blank password from a default Win 2k Pro install.
XP? NOPE! An Administrative account on a default install of XP (Home or Pro) witha blank password is RESTRICTED to local logon ONLY. Windows XP (all these are true, but especially true for Pro) handles memory addressing better, scales better, performs faster (in nearly every regard, especially in terms of file system tasks), offers much better networking options, performance, etc. I loved 2000. I really did. And I love XP Pro (until Vista Beta 2 I ran nothing else, aside from the few times I've tinkered with Linux out of boredom). Nearly everything about XP is better than 2000. Personally, I hate XP Home, I think it's garbage. But it STILL offers BETTER security and performance than 2000. Am I saying it's "SECURE"? Nope! Simply MORE secure THAN.
I take it from this brilliant statement that you've never installed some 3rd party app/game/util/etc that replaced a nifty HEAVILY used system dll file, or even a dll file that just happens to be shared between several apps, with their own buggy POS that made your whole system unstable. Happened a LOT in 95/98. There's a REASON Microsoft included that. It actually *GASP* was a good IDEA FOR THE AVERAGE USER! Consider the BACKBONE of this industry is THE AVERAGE USER. They are the reason people like us EXIST. Someone has to keep TEHIR stuff running. I don't care if you're a Network Admin, Server Admin, Security Analyst, Network Engineer, Software Developer, or whatever, EVERYTHING you do, at it's base, is because of the Average USER. MS knows that Average user doesn't know #W%*&^ about dll files
I wrote:
You're absolutely correct. I did not say anything about "Most people" in that line. I said ANYONE. But I also said Anyone on a PUBLIC TERMINAL etc. etc.And on a public terminal, it is russian roullette. Have you any idea the security precautions taken on said terminal? Put in place by said administration? Many public terminals have poor administration, and aren't exactly secure (not by any REAL sense of the word). As for personal systems, like I said most people don't have too much to worry about with a few key security items being kept in mind. Practicality becomes a problem, and unless they're being specifically targeted for some reason (in which case generally it's simpler to just walk up, lay the smack down, and take off with said computer equipment), can be reasonably confident that their information is at least secure from the average joe.
What they should really be worried about is that pesky person standing in the Espresso line taking pictures with his cell phone of your screen as you view your bank account information.
K, maybe that one is a tad overboard, but you get my point. I think.
as for my points, I was merely pointing out the irony of many people talking about how bullet-proof non-MS OSes were. I simply did a quick search, copied the first few links, went to a favorite security site, linked a few August Advisories, and left it at that.
My only problem is when people are like "OMG, Windows is teh suck! Use (insert fanboyism favored OS here) it's totally secure!"
The reality is the majority of users don't know how to setup up *nix without leaving holes gaping wide. As for Mac OSX, it's way better at that than *nix has ever been. As good as Windows? That remains to be seen. The next few years will tell an interesting story, especially with Macs being a tad more open compatability-wise than they once were. The door is open. The question is will the proverbial floodgates (as I believe) burst (provided Macs gain massive marketshare, which I believe they will)? Or will MS (their OS arm) go down in a ball of fiery wreckage as a superior OS, and viable alternative, finally dethrone Windows?
As for which OS I would rather crack. Well, as I said, depends on who set it up. Someone who knows how to secure Windows can make a pretty intimidating target. I myself have offered people money before to crack my systems, only to have them fail one by one, and give up (last time I did this was with 2k Pro before any Service Packs).
Additionally, I do not know as much about cracking a *nix system, as I do a Windows system. If the target is one where there is another way to get information (i.e. social engineering, et al.), that will help tremendously. Just from an experience standpoint, I'd have to go with a Windows system, because it is WHAT I KNOW.
All things being equal (i.e. knowledge, ability, setups, et al.) I think I'd rather crack an open source OS. After all, if I can see the source code, I'm a bajillion times more likely to find a security glitch that I can take advantage of. Please note that I said ALL things being equal. I'm not a programmer, I couldn't see the difference between a buffer overflow vulnerability, or a "run as root" type of vulnerability when it comes to identifying it in code. If I were a programmer, I might be able to.
However, yes the answer to your question, as it stands, is Windows. If I knew *nix instead of Windows, I'd be going after those, because regardless of how secure they are, you have a better chance of cracking something you know, than something you don't.
So what they're REALLY saying is this:
"Ok, you're right, we messed up. We shouild have been on sight to make sure that everything goes according to plan, and so that those nice spiffy 'errors' aren't seen by the staff to raise integrity questions later. How silly of us."
If the public is always happy no matter what you do, you can get away with anything.
Hell just look at how much governments get away with when they're making everyone mad. Imagine if those same people were bubbly happy cheerful all the time. Forget open season. It'd never end. It would just be play-time (for them). And we wouldn't know the difference.
Obligatory comment:
I for one welcome our new seratonin bringing overlords.
Let's face it, the ONLY platform vulnerable to attacks of any kind, is MS. As seen in this article.
Hmmm.... oh yes, let's not forget that there aren't ANY kind of security notices concerning anything on linux.
Nope, definitely NOTHING about linux, or Mac OSX for that matter.
Nope, all those systems, in fact, antyhing but Windows is absolutely bulletproof. Yeap.
So, who's going to jump on the bandwagon with me and bash Microsoft because it's cool? Nevermind that these other products have flaws too, we'll just bash MS so much that no one will ever know we have problems over here with *nix systems and with MacOSX.
They still have a long ways to go, but they're working on it. As opposed to nvidia who is just sitting back ignoring anything that comes up.
However, if you HAVE part of the key, detailed algorithm infomation, or some other type of crucial piece for that puzzle, that can cut the time significantly.
How many can you send?As for the rest, johnny public isn't the one that needs to worry about someone sniffing out their information.
It's the Corporate entities that like to use wireless networks in their buildings, and transmit sensitive information over them.
How many retail stores do you think have UNSECURED wireless networks that, at some point, are connected at some level to their registers? Transaction information?
If they're secured, cool. How many are using 4096-bit RSA? Most are using either standard b/g routers that you can get on retail shelves, or a cheap solution provided by a corporation that provides networking equipment specifically designed for large businesses. Now of those using the latter, how many do you suppose are using equipment that is EASILY 5 years old, if not more?
I was once part of an upgrade team for a rather large retailer, getting all their nice little routers interfaced with T1 lines that had been freshly installed. WAN cards were missing from the majority of the routers. Surprisingly enough, a good portion of the networking equipment was around 8 years old. I even recall seeing one machine still running NT 3.51 (Can't imaging how that could still be licensed and not costing an arm and a leg, but meh, who am i to judge?
Translation: We can't spy on you as easily with closed applications that we can't modify to include auto-reporting, screenshot captures, web-logs, etc. Well, not without adding something like logging software.
As for Wireless networks. Look, if it's broadcast, ANYONE, can pick it up. The right person, with the right skills, and the right motivation, and the right amount of time, can do whatever they want with the contents of said broadcast.
Your cell phone conversations are not secure, your computer's files and transmissions over a wireless network are not secure. Granted cracking certain types of wireless encryption may be impossible from a practicle standpoint, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Capture the packets, and crack them at your leisure.
Want security? Stick with Ethernet, just don't let anyone too close to the cables, or the equipment.
The RIAA begins researching ways to silence this insolent artist who seems hellbent on allowing people to access music (even if it IS his music) for free. They've been cheated out of their share. The following were just decided on by the super secret RIAA meeting on financial vengeance. Step 1. Get Angry Step 2. Talk about how you're cheated. Step 3. Sue Wierd Al and anyone who downloads the song (it says explicitly do NOT download the song,. it's in the title!) Step 4. ???? Step 5. Profit!
However, i don't think this is the same scenario, because video game sales (in revenue) have been decreasing, with only a few companies showing growth. EA is one such company . This site Suggests sales are UP overall as an industry. Now then, are these companies showing growth because they are harder to pirate? Doubtful, as it doesn't seem to matter to piracy inclined people how difficult a game is to pirate, they will do it. So we must look at the content of the games, the originality, stability, re-play aspects, etc.
A game can be spectacular, like Fable but if it has 0 re-play value, don't expect a whole lot. On the other hand, games like TES: Arena (The very fist game in The Elder Scroll Series), TES: Daggerfall, TES: Morrowind, and TES: Oblivion (though I've yet to play Oblivion, can't as of yet afford it), will NEVER go out of style, because they have enormous re-play value. Many of these games you can go through twice, and with the exception of a few main plot-line quests (if you even decide to do those), it will be a totally different game. Games like THAT, are what's missing. Everything is a clearcut path to victory. A clear beginning, and a clear end. This is good for some people, who aren't interested so much in a story, or good gameplay, as they are in just killing stuff to unwind from a long day. But to the gamers, a gamer must have substance. there must be something to it. FPS games are a dime a dozen, RTS games have almost become that, but MMO, and RPG games are doing so well because they can be played radically differently. Clearcut easy games have their place no doubt. But if the gaming industry really wants to reclaim it's 1999-2000 throne of $$$$$, it's going to have to do something about it's content.
And on a side note, if piracy is really killing the PC Gaming industry this badly, why hasn't MS gone under yet from piracy of Windows, Office, their PC Games, and the myriad of other software that they sell, all of which ends up being pirated. MS Seems to be doing OK, in spite of the piracy they are faced with. And how many of you posting here are using XP Corporate, or a copy with wpa killed? I'd wager it's a pretty fair amount. *Shrug* It's just common. It's a reality of business in software. I haven't paid for a copy of Windows in several years, and yet every copy that I do run is totally legit. MS doesn't seem to be hurting for it (even with massive fines from various sources). So one has to wonder, is the PC Gaming industry REALLY in trouble because of piracy? Or are they in trouble for something else, and they're choosing to blame piracy as a scapebgoat? It's better to be seen as a victim, than as lazy and unimaginative.
So, by that logic, let's consider the following. Linux IS a competitor for MS in the OS market. The home Market as well as server. Linux is provided for free (most distros), and people can pay for tech support if needed. Given the knowledge of the user base, Linux stands to make a lot of money giving Tech Support (hopefully not in the form of "RTFM YOU N00B!"). Even if computers are not coming with Linux pre-installed, it's a free download.
So what's stopping people from doing it? Is Microsoft standing over every User's shoulder saying "I'll kill you if you download that."?
Same thing applies here. And all this talk of Virus/Spyware problems being so rampant, explain how I run with 0 protection (minus the Windows Firewall) and have 0 infections, 0 computer issues, and 0 security problems? Someone mentioned that in the ser4ver arena, there are far more protection systems in place, and COMPETENT users behind the wheel. In the home PC market, this is not the case. That was a very good point. I am far from a "User" when it comes to Windows, and hence I never have any issues. The one time in the last 2 years that I've had ANY issues, was from a vulnerability in Java, that wasn't even related to a MS product at all. (At the time, I was playing around with FireFox).
Windows XP Pro (SP2)
Internet Explorer (sometimes I get bored and run IE7 beta)
NO Virus Protection
NO Spyware Protection
_____________________
0 Issues
As for someone replying to the server thing with asking why those problems don't exist in linuxland as they do in Windows land, the answer came before the question. Windows = Massive Home Market Share in the hands of the "User"
Linux is used by VERY VERY few "Users", and those that do encounter massive problems and headaches (though mostly related to HW/SW compatability/ease of use).
Windows has the lion's share, and definitely has mostly a "User" base, and therefore is a prime target. That was my point.
meh
And my mentioning of Spybot and AdAware were to keep people from crying foul about MS offering their bundled spyware protection for free. I can see both sides of that argument, and each side has a fairly compelling case.
As long as there is porn, easily accessible software piracy, and users who are careless, there will be Malware issues (to include Virus/Trojan/Adware/Spyware/et al) a-plenty.
Of course those would likely get blamed on "Evil Hackers and Coders" as opposed to the company(pluralize if necessary) putting out the OS.
Face it, Microsoft is at the top, and hence, is villified. They're not doing a horrible job, all things considered. Mod me down, Flame me for being a "fangirl", whatever.
The simple truth of the matter is that there is NOTHING wrong with MS making an Anti-Virus, and Anti-Spyware solution for it's customers. Bundling them FREE with Windows? Yes that can be a problem. I'm actually sort of on the fence about MS's Anti-Spyware software coming installed with Vista. I don't think that's fair. If they want to offer it free, that's fine (don't cry foul unless you're prepared to tell Spoybot, AdAware, et al that they can't provide free software either). Bundling it with Windows? I don't like it. Microsoft offers their Virus Protection as a FOR PAY product, meaning people have to spend money on it. It's hardly unfair to companies like Symantec or McAfee, or Trend Micro for that matter. It's simply a competing product.
As for non-disclosure agreements, and intellectual property rights and such, this is nothing new, and is practiced by just about EVERYONE in the information business. I remember being incensed when Yahoo bought geocities, and the TOS agreement changed so that Yahoo suddenly owned ANY AND ALL CONTENT that you hosted on their servers. Without ever agreeing to a new TOS when the company changed hands. THAT ticked me off. Yahoo tried using some images I'd painstakingly made, and were profiting off of them, even though they had been hosted at geocities, and the TOS at the time (that I had agreed to) left the rights and ownership to me. Yahoo essentially swiped them (but was at least kind enough to simply delete my account after I threatened them with legal action, and they stopped using my images).
Welcome to capitalism. Break the word down.
Been this way for a long time. From a Windows standpoint I've been flying. I'm from from a "User" in Windows, and have never had an issue with an AMD/ATI combo. In fact, I prefer that over anything else. From a Linux standpoint I'm definitely a "User". Don't know my way around too well, but can generally infer thingsw well enough from various man pages, walkthroughs, and a few google searches now and again. While ATI's performance is certainly lackluster under Linux, it's not horrible, and tends to be more stable, at least for me, than nVidia. Perhaps I've the 1 in a billion HW config that works well under both Windows and Linux. *Shrug* Either way, seeing AMD and ATI jumping into bed together is very good. Regardless of whether or not you like the two companies, you have to acknowledge that BOTH of these companies have fostered a great deal of innovation over the years, and working together, will only foster more. There were ATI vs nVidia priuce/innovation wars some years ago, just as there was an ongoing AMD vs Intel war. In the end, it always benefits us, and ultimately, the companies involved (though one invariably has to come out losing eventually, change its tactics, regain some footing, and get right back in). I can't wait to see what happens when this powerhouse really starts ramping things up. I just hope that ATI's cards don't go away. There has been speculation of this helping AMD counter the Centrino type stuff. Admittedly, that'd be great, but when was the last time you saw an Intel Video Card up for sale? Certainly can't find them in retail stores. Hopefully ATI continues as a name, and producer, and simply adds their capabilities to AMD's dev teams, and vice-versa. My thoughts
With that out of the way. Let's move on. The reason for this aquisition is pretty simple. Business. Good business. Whatever their TRUE reasons, I suspect it has something to do with A. Licensing. (I'm sure someone here thinks that perhaps a few MS employees utilize some of this software?). B. It's better for them to be working WITH MS, and improving Windows, than potentially for a competitor.
I don't think these tools are going away. More likely, they (in one form or another) will eventually be incorporated in various "Resource Kits" which are already PUBLICLY available for download (anyone here ever use robocopy? I do, and love it, fantastic command line copy utility). Why? Because it's GOOD BUSINESS. MS may be many things, but it is, first and foremost, a BUSINESS. Bent on world domination maybe, but a business nonetheless... I for one welcome our new Microsoft/WinInternals Overlords.
*Anti-FLame shield UP!*
Part of that is from social programming.
Part of it is the stigma around "Women & Technology".
Part of it is the annoyance of being looked at as an oddity, or a novelty, instead of a talented and competent co-worker.
There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed here. While I personally seriously doubt that we will ever make up even 35% of the IT/CS workforce, we are growing, and quickly. As the years pass, more and more of us are getting into this field. Know something else that's changed in the last even just 10 years that (imho) has helped facilitate this? Women ARE getting into the (IT/CS) workforce, and ARE thriving, and ARE visible. This gives children real role models to use. It's really no different than seeing athletes for kids that just naturally have an affinity for sports. They realize they CAN do something, so they hbold onto that dream, as opposed to letting it wither and die forgotten amongst their toys and imaginations when they enter into adulthood.
As for "What about men?". Well, when I look at the people I work with (all male) and they're all making at LEAST $3/hr MORE than I am (One of them is still in high school for Christ's sake!), and I get on average, nearly twice the amount of work done, their productivity is measured against mine to scorecard them (I'm not even scorecarded anymore, it's pointless because I'm always on top). Well, forgive me for rolling my eyes when I hear someone try and say something about us getting an 'unfair' advantage becase we're a minority in a given field.
Will people slip through the cracks? You bet. Will there be people put there that shouldn't be there? Absolutely. Is it perfect? Newp! Is it better than nothing? Definitely.
Of course we could keep pretending there isn't a problem, and it might eventually go away. Maybe I should go back to the kitchen too. IT is obviously Man's work. What was I thinking?
Sorry boys, we're here to stay. Want in on a little secret? We've more financial/economic power than most people think. Some companies are keying in on this, and product/service shifts are occuring because of this. Personally I think it will be interesting to see how the next few years unfold.
Toodles
How you say? Right here http://www.data-recovery-software.net/ It's a wonderful little program.
$180 gets you all you need. Not quite the $19.99, though that would have been nice. Is it perfect? Newp! But it does work, quite well actually.
"We are appaled by this decision. Including Rock and Paper in a decidedly Scissors arena is yet another tactic by activist judges trying to legislate from the bench. They keep pushing this kind of alternate agenda down our throats. Alternate Dispute Settlement indeed! Keep your Rock and Paper away from my Scissors. We don't need that kinda stuff here!"
Welcome to Capitalism. The American Way!
Yay for Capitalism. Send me your money!
I happen to like ATI quite a bit. I think a merger between AMD and ATI is a bit far fetched, though certianly some kind of close-knit partnership is definitely within the realm of possibility. I replaced a Geforce2 With a Radeon 7500 and have NEVER looked back. I had a very bad experience with nVidia, and went to ATI and have been very impressed with the performance, versatility, and overall capabilities of the cards that I've had. I run Windows primarily. I also run Linux. Both my laptop and Desktop have ATI cards in them. Under Linux the performance isn't the best, but I don't game in Linux either. Here's the key though: It's getting better. Compare the driver updates, fixes, patches, corrections, tweaks, etc. released by ATI in even just the last 6 months compared with nVidia. ATI may not be the best for a Linux system, but they're at least working on it (which is more than can be said for a LOT of companies that have hardware and/or software products which give lackluster performance, if any at all, under Linux). I prefer ATI because they're cheaper, and in my experience, perform better than nVidia cards. Also, ATI makes the card, AND the chipset. I like that in a video card. My thoughts
What's interesting to me is the whole Windows vs Linux argument esp on HW support. People claim it's sooooo much easier in Linux (which I hadn't heard until in the last year or so). Maybe I'm missing something. Yes I'm a Windows freak-a-zoid. There are VERY VERY limited amounts of Hardware that I couldn't get working in Windows (I've yet to run into one). Linux? Plenty of Hardware that I can't get to work, or was impossibly difficult/involved to get working. To give you an example, a very good friend of mine (Who happens to also do dev work for Gentoo) helped me get Gentoo up and running on my laptop. The biggest pain (and the main part I could not get on my own, nevermind all the boot up errors, I'm not great with Linux, but am trying to learn) was the wireless card. Guess what? The wireless cards integrated with most laptops are lame pieces of crap with horrible driver support REGARDLESS of OS. For Win XP it took me 15 minutes to get a driver for it. It was pretty easy. COuld it be because I'm a Windows Guru? Maybe. But really it wasn't that hard to go to Gateway's website and download a driver (even used the onbard NIC for that, thanks Windows!). Linux doesn't, can't, won't recognize the card at all. My friend had to reverse engineer a driver for an Acer laptop which uses a similar card to get the darned thing working. It functions, but it's about as lame (as in crippled) as a leper with food poisoning. It took him over 12 hours to get that wireless card working. When the USER can go to Best Buy, pick up a scanner, plug it in, and it works. Maybe load some software off a disk, in Linux, then I will say it's HW support is just as good as Windows. People blast Windows because it's the "Cool" thing to do. Linux drivers aren't standardized. If they were, it's support would be a LOT better. Bottom line is they both do a good job FOR HOW THEY'RE MADE! If you're a Linux guru sure, I bet you can get just about anything working near perfectly in Linux. Me, I can get just about anything working near perfectly in Windows. Just because you don't know something, isn't a reason to blast it. However looking at things from an objective point of view, Windows provides a very standardized platform for device drivers. Win9x drivers would work for almsot any version of Win9x. XP/2k/NT drivers were fairly good at being interchangeable (sometimes NT had issues with the newer ones). XP drivers will, for the most part, work in Vista. Will it be buggy? For some things yea. It's unavoidable when you cross platforms like that. WIll it work? Yeap. Is that good? You bet! And before anyone decides to point out a hypocracy in that (talking about my wireless card for Linux) the driver used was from a different device all together that finally got it working (after it was modified). Not quite the same. Using drivers for different devices is sometimes the only option, and it's better than nothing. Linux gets a bravo because my HW actually DOES work in it after some work. Windows is the same way. Period, end of story. On an unrelated note, I wonder if anyone has noted the irony in this guy working for MSNBC? NBC + MS. I think it's kinda funny.