[nycbug-talk] secure fest: BSD on a classic VALinux server

[marco at metm.org]

I have no idea if anyone is up to this, but I am going to install
FreeBSD on a VALinux server which I will use to replace the rag-tag
group of linux boxen which make up my home servers.

  It's a pretty nice machine from the 2200 series
  -- Mylex DAC960 raid controller, with hotswappable ultra scsi disks
  -- SMP capable motherboard with one 800Mhz cpu.
  -- Intel everything else
  -- I even have a manual

I was thinking that this might be a good opportunity to have a bit
of an install fest, secure fest.  Where those of us who are interested
could discuss the issues which come up in a hands on way.  Some ideas I
had which may show how much of a newbie I am with the BSDs are:
  
  Test Vinium vs. the hardware raid controller 
  Kernel tuning.
  Going over pf.

Perhaps some of you have a better idea of some interesting things which
could be done.  Newest for me is the raid stuff (where I am a complete
newbie) and things which have to do directly with the kernel.

I've already made it through an install, ports, partitioning and init
scripts aren't much of a mystery but when people get together the tips
and tricks start to flow, and I am sure there are others who would be
curious to attend such an event and ask questions or what not.

I have a pretty big loft in Brooklyn which could accommodate a bunch of
installs if other people wanted to particpate.  I can offer some beers
and food depending on how many people show up.

I want to do this soon, like this week, so if any of you are up for a
night dare I suggest Friday night? or either Sat. or Sun. anytime that
would be cool.

Anyway it's just an idea, I can host a more carefully planned
install/secure fest whether or not we do this thing with the VA box,

-- 
Marco