An Introduction to the Damn Small Linux

Damn Small Linux is a computer operating system originally based on the Model-K which was a simple version of Knoppix. Damn Small Linux was originally developed to see how many usable desktop applications can fit inside a 50MB live CD. The curiosity and around this personal project gave a massive rise and eventually grew into a community project.

Features of Damn Small Linux

• Boot from a business card CD as a live Linux distribution (LiveCD)
• Boot from a USB drive
• Boot from within a host operating system

Range of Applications

• Dillo – Web browser
• Firefox – Web browser
• Ted – Word Processor
• Sylpheed -  e-mail client
• Xpaint – color image editing tool
• Xpdf – open source viewer for Portable Document Format (PDF) files

Many hundreds of more applications are also available with some providing great graphical user interfaces and usability making Damn Small Linux a great piece of software.

An Introduction to the Ubuntu Operating System

The Ubuntu Operating System is a computer operating system based on the Debian Linux distribution. Ubuntu provides an up-to-date, stable operating system combining a strong focus on usability and ease-of-installation.

Ubuntu is (and has been since its development) be free of charge. There is no purchase or licensing fees. The open source software package is available for free download, use and re-distribution for personal, small and medium business or large enterprises.

Popular Variations of Ubuntu

• Ubuntu Desktop
• Ubuntu Server Edition
• Kubuntu
• Xubuntu

Why Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is an African word meaning ‘Humanity to others’, or ‘I am what I am because of who we all are’.  This makes perfect sense when you consider that Ubuntu is a community developed operating system and is distributed as free and open source software.

The Ubuntu Operating System is a great alternative to other Linux Operating Systems, especially if you are looking for an alternative to the Windows suits.

An Introduction to the Linux Kernel

A “kernel” in computer terminology refers to the central component of an operating system. It is how software and hardware communicate, how they share resources, and how they interact with the user. Every operating system has a different type of kernel, and how well the kernel works often dictates the success of the operating system.

Kernels control a variety of different functions within the CPU. Some of these functions include:

• Process Management – The ability for your computer to handle software with its hardware.
• Memory Management – Control over how each program accesses your computer’s memory.
• Device Management – Your computer’s control over its external devices.

Each of these must be managed successfully in order to create a working operating system. One such kernel that has achieved great success in computing is the Linux Kernel.

What is the Linux Kernel?

Created by a student in Finland back in 1991, Linux Kernel is an operating system that was designed to replace the kernel used by the GNU project – a worldwide collaborative project designed to create free and open source software. GNU’s first kernel attempt failed, but the creation of the Linux Kernel breathed new life into the project and helped create Linux – the leading open sourced operating system.

How Does Linux Kernel Work?

Linux Kernel is a monolithic kernel. This means that the entire operating system runs through its own kernel space, accessing programs and hardware using system calls. It works in C programming language and can be used even on portable devices – something that was not true upon its creation but has been made to work successfully even today.

The Freedom of Linux

The creation of the Linux Kernel was considered a turning point for computing. Hailed by Microsoft as a “cancer” to the computing industry, the Linux model allows for free distribution of both its operating system and the programs that run on it, using open sourced code. While today, some companies do sell Linux Kernel creations (such as Redhat Linux), there is a rule that they must make the code available to the public so that it can be built upon by others and distributed freely. These include the popular Ubuntu Operating System.

The current Linux Kernel has over 11 million lines of code, but is still able to operate on some of the oldest computers, unlike the Windows operating system which causes computers to become obsolete. Linux Kernel can be largely credited for helping the open source revolution move on its way, and all of the benefits that come with it.

What is Redhat Linux?

Linux operating systems have shown themselves to be one of the better operating systems for your computer, providing you with:

• Greater security.
• Free programs.
• Free upgrades.
• Greater customization.

Linux operating systems are some of the most popular ways to run computers. One such operating system is known as Redhat Linux.

History of Redhat Linux

Redhat Linux was released in 1994 for commercial use by the Red Hat group. It was one of the first commercially available Linux Operating System released to the public. It was recognized for such features as easy character encoding for international language support, complex scripting languages, and other common Linux features. Redhat Linux, however, lacked several key programs such as mp3 support due to issues with copyrights and patents.

Redhat Linux continued to upgrade for roughly a decade. However, it was primarily created inside of the Red Hat company. As a result, once the company decided it wanted to focus on its enterprise operating system, Redhat Linux was discontinued, and was taken off the market in 2004.

Though the original OS is no longer being used today, the remaining code was used to create the Fedora operating system – another Linux based system that is widely considered one of the best Linux systems currently available for non-commercial use.

Redhat Enterprise Linux OS

After Redhat Linux was discontinued, the Red Hat Group decided to focus more on their enterprise OS designed for use in small to large businesses. Like all Linux systems, the enterprise version is also based on free and open source code, but in order to receive support by Red Hat you do need to purchase a subscription, which also allows you access to their upgrades and a variety of additional features and support. These can have some considerable cost.

Because the software is open sourced, the code is online and available for use. As a result, several companies have taken the software and created their own enterprise operating systems based on the same code. When this occurs, these new systems, known as “Rebuilds,” are completely free to the public, but they do not get the same support as Redhat Linux, which is why most people prefer to go with the original.

The Continuation of an Old Classic

Since Redhat Linux was first created back in 1994, it has gone through many changes. Today, the operating system is generally available only for enterprise use, but its original OS is still around today being upgraded and improved under the name “Fedora.”

5 Benefits of Using Linux

Casual computer users know all about Windows. Both XP and Vista are highly publicized, and for good reason – Microsoft has created an easy to use operating system that, while it contains several bugs, generally accomplishes everything that the casual user needs to accomplish. However, while Windows may be a generally effective operating system for various uses, a Linux Operating System may be even better – for both the casual user and the growing business.

Benefits of Using a Linux Operating System

1. Cost – The clear benefit of using Linux is the cost. Linux itself is free, but that is not the only area that costs are saved. Every program you load onto your Linux Operating System is going to be free as well. As open source, there is no program that requires extensive investment, saving you a great deal of money both now and in the future.
2. Works on any hardware – Linux is a powerful operating system, but what makes it more impressive is that it can work well on any type of hardware. Even systems from back in the mid to late 1990’s can run the Linux Operating System.
3. Evolved, Changing, Widely Available Programs – Open source programmers are passionate about their work, and those that enjoy the programs often work to improve them themselves. Because all of the software on a Linux Operating System is free, you can try several different programs to find the one that you like the most without spending any money.
4. Customization – The system itself can be modified with someone that knows coding. But beyond that you can make your Linux system run or not run whatever you like. There are no mandatory programs or options that you cannot remove at a moment’s notice.
5. Less Bugs/Openings – Linux systems are made to be as flaw free as possible. With fewer flaws, there is far less to exploit, and since it is written in the most simple code, it becomes harder to hack and harder to create viruses for. You have far more security on a Linux OS, with considerably less errors.

When you choose an operating system for your computer, you could choose Windows – it is well known, there are several good products for it, and it often comes with your computer. But a Linux OS (such as Redhat Linux) may be better suited for your needs, as there are far more programs, greater security, added customization, and everything with Linux is free.

World of the Linux Server

Linux can be thought of as a computer Kernel. The Kernel is the underlying computer code which basically dictates how the software and hardware communicate, how they share resources, and how they interact with the user.

Linux can be used for personal computing, however is more commonly utilized as a server Operating System. These are most prevalent in Business Web Hosting, Web Servers or Mail Servers running some form of Linux Operating System software.

Linux is based on UNIX with one major difference – Open Source. Linux is open source software, and is without comparison one of the best examples to illustrate the positive effects of the open source software movement. As Linux is open source there is no one (or restricted) version of Linux.

Multiple versions of the Linux Operating System exist. These are fundamentally referred to as distributions or ‘distros’ and are again designed for use by both businesses as a Linux Server or for personal use. Some of the most popular versions of Linux include the Ubuntu Operating System, Fedora Operating System and of course Redhat Linux.

The major benefits of using the Operating System in a Linux Server include:

• Cost
• Security
• Hardware and Software compatibility

Ultimately Linux makes a whole lot of sense; however do to the overwhelming grip on the market from Microsoft and Mac, the Linux Server faces very tough competition.

Creating Your Disaster Recovery Plan

As businesses rely more heavily on information technology, the potential damage caused by an IT disaster to a business’s success increases dramatically. Your ability to save your business in the event of a severe hardware malfunction depends a great deal on whether you have a Disaster Recovery plan ready and staff that is ready to implement it.

Preparing for Disaster Recovery

The first step in creating your Disaster Recovery plan is to recognize potential problems, based on the hardware you are using, the way your hardware is being used by your employees, and the location of your hardware. You need to plan for all types of potential problems including:

• Purposeful damage by disgruntled employees.
• Theft (physical) and data theft (hacking).
• Environmental issues related to your geographical area.
• Age and reliability of hardware.
• The adding and deletion of technology and editing of sensitive server files.

You should go over with your staff how these potential problems could occur, how they can be prevented, but also the worst case scenarios based on the severity of these potential disasters. This will help your business prepare for Disaster Recovery, should it need to occur, as well as understand what may go wrong so it can more easily be found and addressed.

Developing Your Plan

Once you have gone over the potential problems that can occur with your data it is time to develop a plan for Disaster Recovery that your staff will be ready to implement. Your staff should be well versed in what to do in the event you lose your data, with each employee knowing their exact role in order to make the process smooth and simple.

Your first step should be to have a set budget for Disaster Recovery. Time spent fixing problems is time not working, and several pieces of hardware may need to be immediately replaced (i.e. Network Storage Server). All of these can be fairly extensive costs to your company if it has not been properly budgeted. It may also be a good idea to purchase insurance on your hardware that you can use to easily replace the pieces that are missing/damaged.

The next step is to draft the Disaster Recovery plan. For obvious reasons, the plan should be printed on paper with multiple copies available and the name of the individual who is supposed to perform a specific action clearly outlined. Each step should be carefully described and written in clear language.

Once you have written out your Disaster Recovery plan, you should practice it – especially when there is turnover within your company. Once you have created, practiced, and prepared for Disaster Recovery, the process should be much easier.

3 Places You Can Store Your Server Backup

It is estimated that 50% of all businesses that lose all of their data will experience such a financial toll that they will close within one year. Now that almost everything related to your business is computerized, the risks associated with not performing Server Backup are as great as they will ever be. But a Server Backup is a tricky system – many of the less technology savvy businesses tend to store their backup files on their server.

This can be a problem. If your server crashes, there may be no way to restore all of your data. Instead, you need a place to keep your Server Backup that is safer and more reliable than storing your data on your server’s hard drive. There are three different methods people use to save their Server Backup.

1. Separate Computer

Some people save their Server Backup on the hard drive of a separate computer, not hooked up to the network. This is not a bad place to keep the backup file, as it is unlikely to be affected by viruses or the hard drive crash of your server. There are still risks, however. If fire, flood, or theft is what caused you to lose your data, the alternate computer is still at risk. In addition, you will need to manage the separate computer in order to perform the backup, which can be time consuming.

2. Portable Storage

Another option is portable storage, such as a USB drive or external hard drive. These are also good places to save a Server Backup and can potentially be safer for maintaining your backup than a computer that stays in-house. It does suffer from the same downside as a separate computer – you will need to be around to complete the backup before you can move it to the portable storage device. In addition, should you not be around when your server crashes, there is no way to retrieve the data until it can be brought back.

3. Remote Backup

A third option is a remote Server Backup. This is when the backup occurs automatically and the file is saved online through a third party system. A remote Server Backup is your safest option, as it allows you to ensure that your files cannot be corrupted or destroyed before a restore can take place. However, these options do cost a monthly fee with an outside company that may be a slight expense for smaller businesses.

These three options are all good places to save your Server Backup. Which you choose will depend largely on the size of your business, the amount of data, and the IT staff that you have on hand.

Benefits of a Remote Backup For Your Business

Any business that uses computers for its daily record keeping – even a small business that only uses its computer to keep track of sales – needs to backup its data often. The entire life of the business is found on those computers, and something as simple as spilled coffee can permanently delete all of your data leaving you without records and without the necessary files that you need to run your business correctly.

However, simply backing up your data may not be enough. Remember, when you run a backup program, your backup file is saved onto your own hardware – hardware that may be lost in the event of a fire, electrical surge, theft, or simple product breakdown. A backup file is not valuable if it is on the hard drive that has crashed, and while you can save it to a different server or computer on the network, it is possible that whatever affected your first hard drive could also damage your other hard drives as well.

That is why one of the most effective ways to keep all of your data safe is to use Remote Backup. Remote Backup is when your entire backup is saved online, using a Remote Backup service that saves every one of your backups in an offsite location that will not be affected by whatever damaged your servers.

How Does Remote Backup Work?

Every night at a pre-determined time, software provided by your Remote Backup service will perform an incremental backup, scan it for data errors, and if everything comes up clean it will load the data onto its server providing you with a full backup that can be reached online.

This data is offsite, so it is not prone to the same problems that can occur within your office. You do have to pay a monthly fee to use a Remote Backup service, but these fees are usually minimal and pale in comparison to the costs of trying to restore lost vital business data in the event of a server crash.

The benefits of Remote Backup are:

• Data saves automatically and incrementally, so a full backup is always available.
• Data is checked for errors and corruption to ensure backup will work successfully.
• Data is not prone to the same environmental or other factors that could damage your backup.
• Data cannot be edited or deleted by disgruntled or misinformed employees.
• Data can be accessed at any time for immediate restore capabilities.

With the considerable risks involved with losing data in your business, a Remote Backup is one of the best ways to be absolutely sure your data is kept safe.

How Often Should You Run Your Backup Program and What Should You Back Up?

The value of a good Backup Program is how you use it. There are programs that come with your operating system, software you can purchase for more complicated backup procedures, and network specific Backup Programs for system wide support. These systems only have value if you use them, as no Backup Program is beneficial if it remains unopened.

How Often Should You Backup Your Data?

How often one backs up their data has a lot to do with the amount of data that you use, as well as the value of that data to you.

• Businesses and universities should back up their data nightly, and every computer system wide should be saved. On any given day, the data on an employee’s computer could be invaluable towards making a sale or doing research, and if it has not been backed up, the data can be lost. Ideally your Backup Program will work across the network and be scheduled to perform an incremental or full backup daily.
• Individuals that do work from home, or often save items of value should also consider using a Backup Program daily, but once a week will generally suffice unless you are often saving pieces of data that are extremely important.
• Individuals that rarely save important files and do not do any work from home should still use a Backup Program weekly if possible, but once a month will suffice. Also, any time you are going to make any major changes to your computer or download anything that may harm your computer, running your Backup Program may be a good idea.

What Types of Files Should Be Included?

When you run your Backup Program, you have the option of choosing what you would like included in the backup. The files that should always be included are documents, spreadsheets, photos, videos, music (if it is a home computer) and any other files you often work with on your computer. For those that are less computer literate, it may be a good idea to simply backup everything, including your operating system data files, as the time it will take to reinstall them all for a computer novice may be difficult.

Also, if you have a website, do not forget to use your Backup Program to save all of your website files as well. Even if they are all online, it is possible that your web service provider can lose them, and without a backup your website will be lost should your hosting provider lose your data.