<quote who="[EMAIL PROTECTED]">
> Could anybody help with some constructive comments on which OS would be
> the better for running ISP related services ( web, dns radius etc ) ?
> Which one is better for stability, available software, scalability ?
It depends on what you're familiar with, to a large extent. Most ISPs I know
of run Linux or *BSD for these basic services. They're not particularly
gruelling tasks anyway.
> Currently we use RH 7.2 for some tasks within our network, but those
> within the company with decision making ability are investigating the
> possibility of replacing it with Solaris 8.
Decision making ability with regards to money, or technical wisdom?
> The general consensus is that with Open Source everybody has access to the
> source, so no guarantee can be made for the security of the software, and
> back doors into the system may be possible.
It also means that everyone who cares can fix security issues and bugs...
Much, much faster. There are so many existing discussions about this that
it's hardly worth addressing here. [ If anyone has great links for Grant to
read and send on, please post them. ]
> I'm under the understanding that the kernel is basically secure, and it is
> the software packages that are installed that can introduce security
> concerns on a machine.
The kernel could have root level vulnerabilities as well, there's nothing to
say that it's any less prone to serious security issues. It's just a matter
of knowing your stuff, and configuring things sensibly and securely.
> Current machines are all Intel boxes, but management is looking at sparc
> as well
Ah yes, the "M" word. Which group is making the technical decisions - the
people who understand money, or the people who understand computers,
security and operating systems?
[ Don't bother with Solaris on Intel boxes. ]
- Jeff
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