Intel is bringing a feature upgrade to Linux that will make Windows users jealous. "The upcoming “pfr_update” driver is set to be introduced in Linux kerne l 5.17. Sources say it appears to be designed for system firmware updates in cases of critical bugs or security issues , allowing server administrators to patch their hardware without downtime." . Ever since BIOS updates became possible, the process required rebooting the PC. Even when motherboard manufacturers moved completely to UEFI , this remained the case. Intel is now changing that, thanks to a new part of the ACPI specification called Platform Firmware Runtime Update and Telemetry (PFRUT). This allows for firmware updates to a PC’s BIOS or UEFI without forcing a reboot. Windows users, though, will be disappointed. The feature is Linux-only, at least for now. Intel’s been working on PFRUT for some time, previously under the moniker “Seamless Update.” The idea is to reduce downtime, especially for servers that should ideally remain available 100 percent of the time. Servers can undergo BIOS/UEFI updates “on the fly,” keeping critical workloads fully operational the whole time. The upcoming “pfr_update” driver is set to be introduced in Linux kerne l 5.17. Sources say it appears to be designed for system firmware updates in cases of critical bugs or security issues , allowing server administrators to patch their hardware without downtime. . Intel is set to launch a significant Linux enhancement aimed at system firmware updates, minimizing downtime for server administrators.. Intel Upgrade, Linux Feature, System Firmware, Server Patching, ACPI Specification. . LinuxSecurity.com Team
If you want to train large groups of students on how to use and deploy networking equipment, you. During the server administration mini-conference at Linux.conf.au in Canberra today, James Lucas and Li Bing Chen explored some of the challenges involved in setting up virtualised network testing and training laboratory at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Those five labs are typically used for networking management courses (both full academic subjects and shorter certification courses), covering both specific hardware and broader concepts around networking, security and wireless. Each allows up to 30 students. The link for this article located at Lilfehacker AU is no longer available. . Creating virtual network labs for student training at Linux.conf.au involves tackling several challenges such as infrastructure limitations, user familiarity, and resource allocation. Networking Training, Virtual Labs, Server Administration, Linux Conference. . Anthony Pell
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