nemozone

Japanese swordsmiths have discovered the ingenious method of using a fire lighting ceremony to create a fire before forging a sword.

This involves hammering a plain iron rod down to a sharp point, which is then used to light the fire.

The best-known part of the sword-making process is the folding of the steel, where the swords are made by repeatedly heating, hammering, and folding the metal. The process of folding metal to improve strength and remove impurities is frequently attributed to specific Japanese smiths in legends. The forging of a Japanese blade typically took many days or weeks and was considered a sacred art, traditionally accompanied by a large array of Shinto religious rituals.

https://www.swordsofnorthshire.com/blog/the-secrets-and-traditional-methods-of-forging-japanese-swords

https://wikiless.org/wiki/Japanese_swordsmithing?lang=en

The word 'thug' is commonplace in our modern vernacular. Often used to describe criminals, gang members, or violent individuals, it carries with it a certain weight and connotation. Yet, few people are aware of the word's rich and intriguing history. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of the word 'thug,' revealing the fascinating story behind this now-ubiquitous term.

Thuggee: An Ancient Secret Society

The word 'thug' has its roots in the historical 'Thuggee' cult, which flourished in India between the 13th and 19th centuries. A secret society of assassins and robbers, Thuggee members were notorious for their unique modus operandi. They would befriend travelers, gain their trust, and then strangle them with a cloth called a 'rumāl.' This method allowed them to kill without shedding blood, which was considered impure in their religious beliefs.

The Thuggee cult was bound together by a shared devotion to the Hindu goddess Kali, who they believed sanctioned their violent and criminal activities. The word 'Thuggee' itself is derived from the Hindi word 'thag,' meaning 'deceiver' or 'swindler.' The cult was feared and reviled for its brutal and merciless nature, and its members were dubbed 'Thugs.'

The British and the Suppression of Thuggee

In the early 19th century, as the British Empire extended its control over India, the Thuggee cult came to the attention of the colonial authorities. The British were horrified by the cult's practices and embarked on a campaign to suppress and eradicate Thuggee.

Led by British officer William Henry Sleeman, a systematic and relentless crackdown on the Thugs was initiated. Thousands of suspected Thugs were arrested, tried, and executed, while others were imprisoned or transported to penal colonies. By the mid-19th century, the Thuggee cult had been effectively dismantled, and the word 'Thug' entered the English language as a term for a violent criminal.

The Evolution of 'Thug' in Popular Culture

Over time, the word 'thug' has evolved and taken on new meanings in different cultural contexts. In the United States, for example, it has been adopted by some subcultures, particularly within the hip-hop community, as a symbol of defiance and resistance against oppression.

In this context, the word 'thug' is often used to describe individuals who have overcome adversity and managed to succeed against the odds. However, it remains a controversial term, as it is also associated with criminality and violence.

The word 'thug' has a long and storied history, one that spans centuries and continents. From its beginnings in the ancient Thuggee cult of India to its present-day use in popular culture, the term has undergone a remarkable transformation. Understanding the origins of the word 'thug' offers us valuable insight into the complexities of language and culture, and serves as a reminder that words can carry with them a rich tapestry of history and meaning.

Over the past few decades, server virtualization has become a vital aspect of datacenter design, allowing organizations to efficiently allocate computing resources to operating systems and applications while reducing IT expenses and bolstering disaster recovery measures. While Citrix Hypervisor (formerly XenServer) is a popular open-source option for server virtualization, other open-source hypervisors are also available. This article delves into some of the leading Citrix alternatives.

Oracle VirtualBox Originally called Sun VirtualBox and Sun xVM VirtualBox, Oracle VirtualBox is a type-2 hypervisor sponsored by Oracle Corporation. It allows IT administrators to run multiple operating systems within several virtual machines simultaneously. Oracle VirtualBox also offers features such as guest additions, guest multi-processing, full ACPI support, multi-screen resolutions, and built-in iSCSI support.

Microsoft Hyper-V Microsoft Hyper-V is a server virtualization technology that enables the creation of virtual machines and the running of multiple operating systems on a single Windows-based machine. It has three versions: Hyper-V for Windows Server, Hyper-V Server, and Hyper-V for Windows 10. Some notable features of Hyper-V include Hyper-V Replica, integration services, migration features, and shielded VMs.

Proxmox Virtual Environment Proxmox Virtual Environment, or Proxmox VE, is an open-source, bare-metal hypervisor for enterprise virtualization based on Debian Linux distribution. It supports full virtualization with Kernel-based virtual machines (KVMs) and lightweight Open Virtuozzo (OpenVZ) for running containers and virtual private servers (VPSs). Key features of Proxmox Virtual Environment include high availability, bridged networking, flexible storage, and command-line interface tools.

Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) KVM is an open-source hypervisor infrastructure designed for Linux OS kernels, initially intended for x86 processors but later expanded to include PowerPC and ARM architectures. Red Hat, Inc. maintains KVM. KVM supports various operating systems and leverages a modified version of Quick Emulator (QEMU) to run macOS platforms.

Parallels RAS: A Budget-Friendly Citrix Alternative Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS) is a single-license, all-in-one virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution that enables businesses to publish virtual workspaces on any device and platform. It works with VMware ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V hypervisors and supports major hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) solutions like Scale Computing HC3, Nutanix Acropolis, and HPE SimpliVity. Parallels RAS is a cloud-ready platform compatible with private, public, and hybrid cloud environments and integrates with Azure Virtual Desktop for seamless management of enterprise resources.

Explore the cost-effectiveness of Parallels RAS as a Citrix alternative today!

Further reading:

https://tsplus.me/best-citrix-alternatives/

https://community.spiceworks.com/topic/2194739-is-there-a-free-open-source-solution-in-alternative-to-citrix-virtual-apps-rds

https://www.parallels.com/blogs/ras/citrix-alternative-open-source/

Dual-booting, the practice of installing multiple operating systems on a single computer, has grown in popularity over the years. It's an excellent way for users to experiment with different operating systems without having to dedicate a separate machine for each one. One of the most common dual-boot configurations involves Windows and Linux. However, many users have reported issues with their system time being incorrect when switching between these two operating systems. This blog post will delve into the causes of these time discrepancies and provide solutions to fix them.

Causes of Time Discrepancies in Dual-Boot Systems:

Different Timekeeping Standards:

The primary cause of time discrepancies in a dual-boot system is the way Windows and Linux manage time. Windows uses local time, while Linux uses Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). When you switch between the two operating systems, the time difference between your local time and UTC can cause a discrepancy in the system time.

Daylight Saving Time:

Daylight Saving Time (DST) can also contribute to time discrepancies in a dual-boot system. Windows and Linux handle DST differently, which can lead to confusion when the operating systems are trying to adjust the system time.

Solutions to Fix Time Discrepancies in Dual-Boot Systems:

Configure Linux to Use Local Time:

One way to solve the time discrepancy issue is to configure Linux to use local time, just like Windows. To do this, open the terminal in Linux and enter the following command:

timedatectl set-local-rtc 1 --adjust-system-clock

This command will configure Linux to use local time and synchronize the system clock accordingly.

Configure Windows to Use UTC Time:

Alternatively, you can configure Windows to use UTC time, like Linux. To do this, open the Windows registry editor and navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\TimeZoneInformation

Right-click on the TimeZoneInformation key, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it “RealTimeIsUniversal.” Double-click on the new value and set its data to 1. After doing this, restart Windows, and the system time should now be in sync with Linux.

Use a Third-Party Time Synchronization Tool:

Another option to resolve the time discrepancy issue is to use a third-party time synchronization tool, such as NetTime, that works with both Windows and Linux. This tool will synchronize your system time with a time server, ensuring that both operating systems display the correct time.

Time discrepancies in dual-boot systems can be frustrating for users. However, with the solutions provided in this blog post, you can easily correct the system time in your dual-boot configuration. By configuring both operating systems to use the same timekeeping standard or using a third-party time synchronization tool, you can ensure that your system time remains accurate, no matter which OS you're using.

Further reading:

https://itsfoss.com/wrong-time-dual-boot/

https://www.howtogeek.com/323390/how-to-fix-windows-and-linux-showing-different-times-when-dual-booting/

https://superuser.com/questions/1174187/windows-10-always-showing-wrong-time-when-dual-booting-with-ubuntu

The world of technology is constantly evolving, with open-source projects playing a crucial role in driving innovation and collaboration. One project that has its roots intertwined with the history of Apple is PureDarwin, an open-source operating system based on the Darwin core. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating connections between NeXT, NeXTSTEP, Darwin, macOS X, and PureDarwin, revealing how these interconnected technologies have shaped the development of modern operating systems.

NeXT and NeXTSTEP: The Starting Point

NeXT Inc., founded by Steve Jobs in 1985 after he left Apple, created the NeXT Computer and NeXTcube, both of which ran on the NeXTSTEP operating system. NeXTSTEP was an advanced, Unix-based, object-oriented OS with a unique graphical user interface (GUI). In December 1996, Apple acquired NeXT, bringing Steve Jobs back to the company and setting the stage for the development of a new operating system that would combine the strengths of NeXTSTEP and the classic Macintosh operating system.

macOS (formerly Mac OS X): The Birth of a New OS

Following the acquisition of NeXT, Apple began working on a new operating system, Mac OS X (later renamed macOS), which built upon the Unix-based core derived from NeXTSTEP. Mac OS X featured an entirely new GUI called Aqua and aimed to combine the power of Unix with the user-friendliness of the Macintosh platform. Over time, macOS has become a defining product for Apple, powering its range of Mac computers.

Darwin: The Core Foundation

Darwin is the open-source, Unix-based operating system core that underpins both macOS and iOS. Developed by Apple, Darwin draws from NeXTSTEP and the open-source BSD Unix operating system. It provides the foundational elements for macOS, such as its kernel, file system, and networking components, while the proprietary elements like the GUI and applications are built on top of it.

OpenDarwin: An Early Attempt at an Open-Source OS

OpenDarwin was an early community-driven project that aimed to create an open-source version of the Darwin operating system. Launched in 2002, OpenDarwin was an attempt to make the Darwin core more accessible to the developer community. However, the project faced various challenges and eventually shut down in 2006.

PureDarwin: The Community-Driven Evolution

PureDarwin emerged as a successor to OpenDarwin, with the goal of creating a fully functional, modular, and open-source operating system based on the Darwin core. The project aims to provide a more accessible and community-driven alternative to macOS, while still benefiting from the power and flexibility of the Darwin core. Some key features of PureDarwin include its modular architecture, compatibility with macOS software, active community support, and extensive documentation.

The history of PureDarwin is a fascinating journey through the evolution of operating systems, from the early days of NeXT and NeXTSTEP to the development of macOS and its underlying Darwin core. PureDarwin continues this legacy by providing a community-driven, open-source operating system that harnesses the power of Darwin while fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation. Whether you are a developer looking to contribute to an exciting project or a user seeking a reliable and customizable alternative to proprietary operating systems, PureDarwin is a project worth exploring.

Further reading: https://www.puredarwin.org/ https://github.com/PureDarwin/PureDarwin/wiki

“grub-reboot”. This command works with GRUB 2.x versions, including GRUB 2.06 and later.

To use “grub-reboot”, you'll first need to know the menu entry index number or name of the target OS or menu item you want to boot into. You can find this information by examining the “/boot/grub/grub.cfg” file or by running the “grep” command:

grep '^menuentry' /boot/grub/grub.cfg

This command will return a list of menu entries along with their index numbers, starting from 0. For example:

0: menuentry 'Ubuntu'
1: menuentry 'Advanced options for Ubuntu'
2: menuentry 'Memory test (memtest86+)'

Once you know the index number or name of the target OS, you can use the “grub-reboot” command. To do so, open a terminal and run the following command with “sudo” and the appropriate index number or name:

sudo grub-reboot 0

or

sudo grub-reboot 'Ubuntu'

After executing the command, reboot your system:

sudo reboot

The system will then reboot directly into the specified GRUB menu entry. Keep in mind that this method only sets the default boot entry for the next reboot. After that, GRUB will revert to its normal boot behavior.

Please note that the “grub-reboot” command may not be available on some distributions by default. In that case, you may need to install the “grub2-common” package or a similar package provided by your distribution.

https://itsfoss.com/linux-tablets/

A deep dive into the world of Mousai, an open source alternative for music recognition software

In a world where our lives are increasingly driven by technology, it's no wonder that we rely on various apps and tools to simplify our everyday tasks. One such task is identifying that catchy tune you just can't seem to get out of your head. In the past, we've turned to popular music recognition apps like Shazam, SoundHound, or even Siri or Google Assistant. But, in recent years, open source alternatives have started to gain traction, providing users with more privacy-focused and customizable options.

Today, we're going to explore one of these open source alternatives: Mousai. Developed by SeaDve, Mousai is a music recognition tool that offers a unique and compelling solution for music lovers. Let's dive in and discover what makes Mousai so special.

Mousai: An Overview

Mousai is an open source music recognition tool built using Python and Gtk. It works by capturing a short audio sample of the song you want to identify and then sends it to the OpenAI's AudD API for analysis. Once the API returns the information, Mousai displays the song title, artist, and even a link to the song on various platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube.

Key Features

Privacy-focused: As an open source software, Mousai's code is available for anyone to review, ensuring transparency and privacy. Unlike some mainstream music recognition apps, Mousai doesn't require a user account or log in, and it doesn't collect or store any personal data.

Lightweight and Fast: Mousai is designed with efficiency in mind. It has a minimalistic user interface and is easy to use, with a quick response time to identify songs.

Cross-platform compatibility: Mousai is available for Linux, Windows, and MacOS, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Customizable: Since Mousai is open source, you can modify its code to fit your preferences or even contribute to its development by submitting bug reports, feature requests, or code contributions.

Getting Started with Mousai

Installing Mousai is simple. For Linux users, Mousai can be installed via Flatpak or the AUR (Arch User Repository). Windows and MacOS users can follow the installation guide provided on the GitHub repository.

After installation, using Mousai is a breeze. Simply open the app, click on the microphone icon to start recording, and Mousai will listen to the audio sample and return the song information within seconds.

In today's age of digital surveillance and data privacy concerns, Mousai offers a refreshing alternative to mainstream music recognition apps. Its open source nature, privacy focus, and ease of use make it an attractive option for music enthusiasts looking to identify songs quickly and efficiently.

So, the next time you're wondering what that catchy tune is, give Mousai a try – it just might become your new favorite music recognition tool!

https://github.com/SeaDve/Mousai https://flathub.org/apps/io.github.seadve.Mousai

In today's rapidly evolving digital world, having a solid foundation in information and communication technology (ICT) and digital literacy is crucial. Recognizing this need, the Council of European Professional Informatics Societies (CEPIS) developed the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) back in 1995. Also known as the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) outside Europe, this certification program has become a globally recognized ICT and digital literacy qualification. Let's delve deeper into the ECDL/ICDL and explore its benefits, modules, and significance in the digital age.

Overview of the ECDL/ICDL

The ECDL/ICDL certification program is designed to help individuals gain essential digital skills and showcase their competence in using computers and digital tools effectively. Administered by the ECDL Foundation, the program is now available in more than 150 countries and has been adopted by governments, schools, universities, and corporations alike. The ECDL/ICDL is equivalent to other global digital literacy qualifications and is mapped to the National Framework of Qualifications in Ireland.

ECDL/ICDL Modules and Benefits

The ECDL/ICDL comprises several modules, each focusing on a specific area of ICT and digital literacy. These modules are regularly updated to ensure their relevance to the latest technology trends. Some of the modules include:

Computer Essentials: Covers basic computer concepts and skills, such as managing files and folders, working with desktops, and using software applications. Online Essentials: Focuses on web browsing, email usage, online communication, and security. Word Processing: Teaches users how to create, format, and manage documents using word processing applications. Spreadsheets: Enables users to understand and work with spreadsheets, including data input, calculations, and chart creation. Presentation: Equips users with the skills to create and deliver effective presentations using digital tools. IT Security: Provides an understanding of key security concepts and best practices to protect data and devices. The ECDL/ICDL certification offers numerous benefits to both individuals and organizations:

For individuals, the certification demonstrates their digital competency and can improve employability, career prospects, and confidence in using digital tools. For organizations, it ensures that employees possess the digital skills necessary to perform their tasks efficiently and effectively, ultimately leading to increased productivity. The Significance of ECDL/ICDL in the Digital Age

The ECDL/ICDL certification is more important than ever as technology continues to advance and digital skills become increasingly relevant in various sectors. By obtaining this certification, individuals not only demonstrate their commitment to digital literacy but also improve their ability to navigate and excel in the digital landscape. Furthermore, the ECDL/ICDL can help bridge the digital divide and provide equal opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The ECDL/ICDL certification program plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals with the digital skills necessary to thrive in the modern world. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for people to stay current with the latest ICT and digital literacy trends. By obtaining the ECDL/ICDL certification, individuals can boost their career prospects and organizations can ensure a digitally competent workforce, making it a win-win for all involved.

Further reading:

https://wikiless.org/wiki/International_Computer_Driving_Licence?lang=en

https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/what-is-ecdl/

https://icdl.org/icdl-references/

In the world of problem-solving, one issue has become increasingly prevalent: the XY Problem. This phenomenon can lead to miscommunication, confusion, and ultimately, wasted time and resources. This blog post aims to clarify the XY Problem and provide guidance on how to avoid it, so you can become a more effective problem solver.

What is the XY Problem?

The XY Problem is a communication issue that arises when someone asks for help with a particular solution (Y) instead of seeking assistance with the actual problem (X). This can occur when an individual has a problem (X) and believes that a specific solution (Y) will resolve it, without being certain that this is the case. This can lead to a back-and-forth exchange of suggestions and clarifications, rather than a direct discussion about the root issue.

Example:

Consider a scenario where a person wants to learn how to create a website (X). Instead of asking for guidance on website creation, they request help with a specific coding language (Y) that they believe is necessary for the task. This can lead to confusion, as others may not understand the person's underlying goal.

Why is the XY Problem an issue?

Miscommunication: Asking for help with a specific solution (Y) instead of the actual problem (X) can lead to confusion and frustration, as others may not fully grasp the intended goal.

Wasted time and resources: Attempting to address the perceived solution (Y) can result in wasted time and effort, as it may not effectively address the core issue (X).

Inefficient problem-solving: The XY Problem can hinder the discovery of more efficient or suitable solutions, as the focus is misplaced on a specific solution rather than the actual problem.

How to avoid the XY Problem

Identify the root problem: Before seeking assistance, take a step back and ensure you understand the core issue (X). This will allow you to communicate your problem more effectively and enable others to provide more relevant guidance.

Be open to alternative solutions: When discussing your problem, be open to suggestions and ideas from others. They may have insights or expertise that can lead you to a more suitable solution than the one you initially had in mind.

Ask clarifying questions: If you're uncertain about the nature of the problem or the solution, don't hesitate to ask questions. This will help you better understand the issue at hand and enable you to communicate it more effectively.

The XY Problem is a common communication issue that can lead to confusion and frustration when attempting to solve problems. By taking the time to identify the root issue, being open to alternative solutions, and asking clarifying questions, you can avoid the XY Problem and become a more effective problem solver. This not only benefits you but also those who are trying to assist you in finding a solution. Remember, communication is key when it comes to efficient problem-solving.

https://xyproblem.info/