I recently had a conversation with a person in the tech world who does a lot of hiring. He started our conversation with a pretty open-ended request: “Shawn, talk to me about Linux and how it matters to people looking for a job.” I assumed he was asking me why people should or shouldn't add Linux expertise to their résumés. Or, perhaps he was trying to get me to explain why a Linux professional is a value even in an environment largely containing Microsoft products. I was absolutely incorrect. The value of Linux already was assumed. He was asking how people should go about gaining training and experience! Let me say that again, the value of Linux was already assumed. It's like we're living in the future! On that note, let's learn about Linux.
Reuven M. Lerner starts off this issue with a how-to on migrating from Python 2 to Python 3. The transition was such that code doesn't automatically work in version 3 if it worked in version 2. That's not to say it's not worth moving to 3, just that it requires work. Reuven gives tips on working through that process incrementally.
Next, Dave Taylor finishes his series on “spinning” text, creating automated, personalized messages. It's a fascinating look at how computers are being used to do the sorts of things that used to require a human touch. Plus, it's just really awesome to see in action!
Continuing his series on Qubes, Kyle Rankin is back this month explaining how to secure the security-focused distribution even further. Figuring out the advanced features of Qubes is just one more way to make your secure environment customized for your security needs.
My column this issue is more informational than educational. I often am asked about what I use on a daily basis, and I'm traveling this month, so I figured it was the perfect time to talk about how I work when traveling. I'm probably drastically different from anyone else, but perhaps one or two things I do might be useful for my fellow nerdy travelers.
John S. Tonello provides part 3 of his “Tiny Internet Project”, where he teaches how to create your own diverse network infrastructure using virtualization and elbow grease. This month you'll learn how to get those installed systems going, so you can do whatever experimentation or learning you desire. If you've been following along with this project, you won't want to miss this conclusion.
Finally, Amit Saha delves deep into development with a look at coroutines and channels in the C language. If you are writing concurrent applications in C, you'll want to check out the libmill library, and Amit walks through its usage.
Just like every month, we have extensive looks at new products, reviews of existing technology, tips and tricks. Plus, we have a look at the implications of Linux and open source in our society with Doc Searls' EOF. Whether you are just learning Linux to make your résumé sparkle or are trying to learn even better ways to utilize Linux in your environment, this issue is bound to please. We hope you enjoy it as much as we've enjoyed putting it together!