Random generated numbers on computers are actually psuedo-random because they use some algorithm to determine the seed that starts the randomization process. Whether that seed is the current timestamp or some other attribute, it can make the number guessable and thus the encryption less secure. Whitewood Encryption Systems Inc. have announced their new 'Entropy Engine' at the … [Read more...]
Happy SysAdmin Appreciation Day 2015!
Today is the 16th annual System Administrator Appreciation Day. The last Friday in July is a reminder to thank your SysAdmin for keeping your operation running. I like to extend SysAdmin Day to all IT Pros because it usually requires a team effort. From the help desk to DBAs to developers, communication, problem-solving, and constant learning of new technology is … [Read more...]
Rounding up Windows 10 news on launch day
Windows 10 updates began today. Near midnight last night, Terry Myerson tweeted that the first wave of upgrades had begun. https://twitter.com/tmyerson/status/626250294884593665 The Windows blog headline reads that the free Windows 10 upgrade is available in 190 countries today and the Windows 10 launch site gives 10 reasons to upgrade and the Microsoft blog tries to start … [Read more...]
The ‘What’s under the box?’ way of troubleshooting
A visualization that helps me think through troubleshooting problems or explaining my thought process to others is what I refer to as 'What's under the box?'. This approach to troubleshooting harkens back to solving math problems in grade school. You might be given a series of values for X and Y and be told to complete the equation. You then have to figure out what the formula … [Read more...]
NewEgg defeats patent troll, celebrates with sale
NewEgg is holding a 24 hour 'When we win, you win' sale. The 'win' is in response to a lawsuit that was decided in their favor over patent troll TQP Development regarding SSL, basic online encryption. NewEgg has not lost a patent troll case trial since 2006, according to the press release. “We chose many years ago to fight meritless patent lawsuits not just as a matter of … [Read more...]