English

Web Servers Checkpoints: Stabilität und Sicherheit im Fokus

Web Servers Checkpoints: Focus on stability and security

Web Servers Checkpoints: Focus on stability and security

Web server stability and security are critical. We show you why regular web server checkpoints minimize downtime and protect data.

It is impossible to imagine our lives without the Internet. We use it every day for our communication, entertainment and work. But how does it all work? Behind the scenes, powerful web servers work to make websites and applications available. In this blog post, we take a closer look at web servers and why a "Web Servers Checkpoint" is so important.

What is a web server?

 

A web server is basically a computer that is constantly connected to the Internet and provides web pages and web applications. When you access a website in your browser, your computer sends a request to the web server, which provides the appropriate information so that you can view the web page.

There are several types of web servers, including Apache, Nginx, Microsoft IIS, and focus on many others. They play a central role in delivering content on the Internet. Therefore, it is crucial that they are stable and secure. We'll give you an introduction to the types and functions of web servers here.

Web server stability

 

Stability is a key aspect for web servers. If a web server is not stable, this can lead to downtime, which can be frustrating for both website owners and users. There are several factors that affect the stability of a web server:

  1. Hardware: The physical hardware of the server should be reliable. This includes the processor, memory, hard drives and other components. A failure in any of these areas can render the server unusable.
  2. Software: The software used, including the operating system and the web server itself, must be kept up-to-date and patched regularly to close security gaps and ensure stability.
  3. Load balancing: Load balancing techniques ensure that requests are distributed evenly across multiple servers, which increases stability and availability.

Web server security

 

The security of web servers is of utmost importance, as they process sensitive data and can also be targets for cybercriminals. Here are some important security aspects:

  1. Firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS): These protection mechanisms monitor data traffic and detect suspicious activity. They can block attempted attacks and protect data from unauthorized access.
  2. SSL encryption: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a protocol that encrypts data transmission between the server and the client. This protects the transmission of sensitive information.
  3. Security updates: Regular updates of server software are crucial to close security gaps. Outdated software is more vulnerable to attacks.
  4. Database security: When a web server accesses a database, security measures must also be taken there to protect data from theft or corruption.

Why is a "Web Servers Checkpoint" important?

 

A "Web Servers Checkpoint" is a regular process of checking web servers for stability and security. This includes tests, audits and updates. It is important because:

  • It minimizes downtime and increases the availability of websites.
  • It ensures the security of the data hosted on the server.
  • It optimizes the performance and speed of the server.
  • It builds user confidence in a website or application.

In today's digital world, web servers are the backbone of the Internet. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to ensure that they are stable and secure. A "Web Servers Checkpoint" should be performed at regular intervals to achieve these goals. This is the only way to ensure that the Internet runs smoothly and our data is protected.


Cloud Communications: The Future of Business Growth

Cloud Communications: The Future of Business Growth

 

Cloud communications is experiencing an impressive upswing and is expected to grow by an average of 18.3% per year over the next five years. We look at the driving forces behind this growth.

The business world is constantly changing, and the way companies communicate is no exception. As businesses increasingly move from legacy PBX systems to flexible, scalable cloud solutions, cloud communications are on the rise. This transition allows businesses to optimize spend and eliminate the need for expensive upfront investments.

Forecasts for impressive growth

According to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, the cloud communications market size is expected to grow from $78 billion in 2022 to $180.7 billion in 2027. This represents an impressive 18.3% compound annual growth rate. This highlights the growing importance of this technology in the modern business world.

Regional trends and growth prospects

According to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, the cloud communications market size is expected to grow from $78 billion in 2022 to $180.7 billion in 2027. This represents an impressive 18.3% compound annual growth rate. This highlights the growing importance of this technology in the modern business world.

Industries that benefit

The adoption of work-from-anywhere (WFA) and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) workplace concepts is driving the implementation of cloud communications in various industries. In particular, manufacturing, information technology (IT), retail, retail banking, and government are among the leaders in the use of this technology. Cluster-based API communication solutions are optimizing efficiency and communication in these industries and consequently helping to increase competitiveness.

The role of artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) integration is playing a key role in the future of cloud communications. Companies are using AI-driven virtual assistants and chatbots to automate their customer service and sales operations. This allows employees to focus on strategic tasks while AI takes care of routine tasks. In the coming years, AI technology will enable even more natural and engaging interactions.

Focus on security and data protection

Increasing regulatory requirements related to the storage and transfer of employee and customer data necessitate increased security measures and encryption capabilities in cloud communications solutions. Local hosting options ensure compliance with strict privacy and data protection laws such as the GDPR and CCPA, allowing organizations to reduce their compliance risks and ensure transparent data practices.

Cloud communications are undoubtedly on the rise. They will permanently change the way businesses communicate and operate in the coming years. Companies that embrace this development will be able to operate more flexibly and competitively while reaping the benefits of cloud communications.

Source: Cloud Computing News


Nginx sicher machen: Let's Encrypt auf Ubuntu 22.04 einrichten

Making Nginx secure: Set up Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04

Making Nginx secure: Set up Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04

 

With Let's Encrypt, you can secure your website quickly, efficiently, and inexpensively. We will show you how to configure Nginx securely on Ubuntu 22.04 using the certificate authority.

Security on the Internet is more important today than ever before. One of the basic measures to secure websites is to encrypt traffic. In this blog post we will show you how to make Nginx, one of the most popular web servers, secure with Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04. It only takes five steps!

(You can learn how to configure Apache with Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04 here.)

Step 1: Preparing the system

 

Before you start setting up Let's Encrypt, you should be making sure that your Ubuntu 22.04 server is up to date. To do this, update the system with the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Also, install Nginx if you have not already done so:

sudo apt install nginx

Step 2: Installing Let's Encrypt

 

Let's Encrypt is an open source certificate provider that provides free SSL/TLS certificates. To install Let's Encrypt on your Ubuntu server, use `certbot`, a useful tool for managing certificates:

sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-nginx

Step 3: Request and configure a certificate

 

After installing `certbot` you can request an SSL/TLS certificate for your Nginx website. Use the following command and replace `example.com` with your own domain:

sudo certbot --nginx -d example.com -d www.example.com

Certbot will guide you through the necessary steps to request the certificate and add it to your Nginx configuration.

Step 4: Automate certificate renewal

 

SSL/TLS certificates have a limited validity period, usually 90 days. To ensure that your certificate does not expire, automate the renewal process. Add a cronjob to renew the certificates on a regular basis:

sudo crontab -e

Add the following line to schedule renewal every 12 hours:

0 */12 * * * /usr/bin/certbot renew --quiet

Step 5: Check the configuration

 

To ensure that your Nginx configuration is correct and the certificates are renewed properly, run the following command:

sudo nginx -t

If the output shows "syntax is okay" and "test is successful", your configuration is fine.


Blog-Empfehlung

Blog recommendation: "Escape the Feature Factory"

Blog recommendation: "Escape the Feature Factory"

Tired of monotonous ticket processing and feeling trapped in a "feature factory"? Then this brand new developer blog is just the thing for you.

Today, instead of practical tutorials and exciting tech news, we would like to give you a reading recommendation: The brand new blog "Escape the Feature Factory" by Stefan Mintert on heise Developer.

The starting point

 

"Feature Factory" is a questionable way of working in software development that is often found in companies. The problem is that the development of software functions (features) becomes a mechanical and monotonous process that impairs the quality, creativity and efficiency of developer work. It contradicts agile principles and can jeopardize the company's success in the long term.

The blog

 

Mintert aims on his blog to help development teams get out of this monotonous ticket processing. He observes that many developers are satisfied with the status quo or wait for rescue from others instead of taking action themselves. Therefore, he wants to offer impulses, change of perspective and concrete recommendations for action to restore agility and responsibility in software development. The focus is on transparency, taking responsibility and leadership in the company.

In the articles, Mintert also wants to share his own experiences and insights from working with other experts at Kutura. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, wants to work with his readers to make improvements and positively impact the software development world. The introductory post to the new blog can be found here.

The author

 

Stefan Mintert is an experienced expert in the field of software development and corporate culture. He studied computer science and started his career as a consultant for technical topics. Later, he founded two startups and developed customized software solutions for clients. After a major career change, Mintert devoted more time to leadership, corporate culture, happiness at work and transformation.

Today, his interest is less on the technical side and more on the people who develop new products, their collaboration and leadership. His consultancy Kutura specializes in changes in the areas of culture, leadership, agility and customer orientation. Together with his team, Mintert offers companies support at various hierarchical levels.


Configure Apache with Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04

Configure Apache with Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04

With Let's Encrypt you can secure your website quickly, efficiently and inexpensively. We will show you how to configure Apache securely on Ubuntu 22.04 using the certificate authority.

The security of a web server is crucial - especially if you run a website where confidential information is processed. Encrypting data transmission is an essential protection mechanism.

The free and widely used certificate authority Let's Encrypt allows website operators to obtain SSL/TLS certificates for their domains. These certificates, in turn, ensure a secure and encrypted connection between the web server and your website visitors.

We will show you in five steps how to securely configure Apache using Let's Encrypt on Ubuntu 22.04.

Step 1: Install Apache

Before you can use Let's Encrypt, make sure Apache is installed on your Ubuntu 22.04 server (to the tutorial). Use the following command to do this:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install apache2

Step 2: Install Let's Encrypt Certbot

Certbot is a helpful tool that facilitates the setup of SSL/TLS certificates. Install it with the commands below:

sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-apache

Step 3: Create and configure certificate

After you have installed Certbot, you can create and configure an SSL/TLS certificate for your domain. Replace `example.com` with your own domain:

sudo certbot --apache -d example.com

Certbot guides you through the setup process and automatically creates the required Apache configuration files.

Step 4: Apache restart

After you have created and configured your certificate, you should restart Apache to apply the changes:

sudo systemctl restart apache2

Step 5: Set up automatic certificate renewal

Let's Encrypt certificates have a limited validity period, usually 90 days. You can set up automatic renewal to ensure that your certificate is always up-to-date. To do this, add the following cron job:

sudo crontab -e

Also add the following line to check Certbot twice a day after expiration and renew if necessary:

0 */12 * * * /usr/bin/certbot renew --quiet


Windows drivers in Rust for more freedom and security

Windows drivers in Rust for more freedom and security

The Microsoft team recently published Rust components for Windows driver development on GitHub. The goal of this surprising initiative is safer and more reliable Windows drivers.

Microsoft has taken an exciting step to improve the security and reliability of Windows drivers. The Surface development team recently unveiled a set of Rust packages called "crates" on GitHub. These crates are open source and allow developers to write Windows drivers using the Rust programming language. Especially interesting is the fact that Microsoft itself has published these tools.

The Rust crates allow programmers to create drivers that are compatible with the Windows Driver Model (WDM) and Windows Driver Frameworks (WDF) in both user and kernel modes. They also extend their support to W32 services, providing a comprehensive solution for driver development. From creating system services to working at the kernel level to approaching hardware components, these Rust packages provide developers with a versatile platform.

Gather feedback from the developer community

First of all, it is important to mention that this initiative is primarily an experimental test project. Microsoft aims to encourage experimentation and discussion in the developer community. It is not currently intended for commercial use.

Currently, the six packages available on crates.io only support the Kernel Mode Driver Framework (KMDF) version 1.33. However, the project maintainers have indicated that other bindings can be generated. Interested developers can import the project's GitHub repository and configure it in the build.rs file in the wdk-sys folder. In the future, the team plans to extend the compatibility of the project to include other versions of the Windows Development Kit (WDK).

What distinguishes these Rust crates is their ability to bridge the gap between Rust and the Windows Development Kit and provide a Foreign Function Interface (FFI) to the Windows APIs in the WDK. To work with these tools, developers need LLVM, Cargo Make and an installed Windows Development Kit for more freedom.

Motivation to integrate Rust into Microsoft system core

On a related note, Microsoft's hardware division has already taken the initiative to rewrite sample drivers in Rust. This shows Microsoft's commitment to integrating Rust into its system core. A move that has already begun in 2020. The motivation behind this transition, as stated by Microsoft, is to pursue higher security without compromising performance.

In summary, Microsoft's release of Windows driver development tools based on Rust holds out the prospect of a more secure and reliable Windows driver ecosystem in the future.

Source: heise.de


Apache vs. Nginx: Practical Considerations

Apache vs. Nginx: Practical Considerations

 

When is Apache the right choice and when would you be better off using Nginx as your web server? We contrast the two popular options.

Choosing the right web server is a crucial step in setting up a website or web service. Two of the most popular options are Apache and Nginx. Instructions on how to install Apache or Nginx on Ubuntu 22.04 can be found here:

🔵 Installing Apache Web Server on Ubuntu 22.04
🔵 Install Nginx on Ubuntu 22.04

In this article, we want to address the question of when to use which software. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages. The decision depends on various practical considerations:

1️⃣ Performance and resource consumption

Apache is a proven web server that supports a wide range of modules and extensions. However, Apache can consume more resources and have higher CPU usage under heavy loads.

Nginx is known for its efficiency and speed. It is designed to handle many concurrent connections efficiently and consumes fewer resources than Apache.

2️⃣ Configuration and flexibility

Apache provides flexible configuration through its .htaccess files and allows you to specify complex rules and settings at the directory level. This can be useful if you have specific requirements.

Nginx uses a simple configuration syntax that is easy to learn. However, it is less flexible than Apache, especially in terms of .htaccess-like functions.

3️⃣ SSL/TLS support

Apache supports SSL/TLS via the popular "mod_ssl" module, which provides robust encryption. However, the configuration can be complex.

Nginx also provides excellent SSL/TLS support and is often used for terminating SSL. Configuration is usually easier than with Apache.

4️⃣ Reverse proxy and load balancing

Apache can be used as a reverse proxy and for load balancing, but requires additional modules such as "mod_proxy" and "mod_proxy_balancer".

Nginx was designed from the ground up with reverse proxy and load balancing in mind, and offers these features natively.

5️⃣ Community and extensions

Apache has a large and active community as well as an extensive collection of extensions and modules.

Nginx also has a growing community and offers numerous extensions, although they may not be as extensive as Apache's.

Decide or combine?

The choice between Apache and Nginx depends on your individual requirements and preferences. If you need extensive control over configuration and extensibility, Apache might be the right choice. If you are looking for performance optimization and resource efficiency, Nginx is probably the better option.

In many cases, it's also possible to use Apache and Nginx together, with Nginx acting as a reverse proxy in front of Apache to get the best of both servers. Ultimately, you should make your decision based on your specific requirements and expertise. Both web servers are robust and have their place in the web development world.


A vision of Huawei: The future of data centers by 2030

A vision of Huawei: The future of data centers by 2030

 

At an in-house exhibition, Huawei unveiled innovative new technologies as well as a groundbreaking forecast for the future.

Data centers are the linchpin of digital transformation. Huawei, a global technology leader, took a look into the future at its recent in-house exhibition. Not only were forward-looking technologies such as Cloud Stack 8.3 presented there. Huawei also presented a comprehensive plan for data centers in 2030.

Cloud Stack 8.3: AI models of the future

 

With its hybrid cloud platform Cloud Stack 8.3, Huawei enables enterprises to build their own large-scale AI models. Cloud Stack 8.3 provides a wide range of services, including frameworks, base models, pipelines, computing architectures, and processing power. This enables customers to quickly and efficiently develop new on-premises models. This technological advancement provides application scenarios for various industries such as mining, transportation, weather forecasting, and medicine.

Focus on security and data management

 

In addition to unveiling Cloud Stack 8.3, Huawei also emphasized its commitment to security and data management. Therefore, privacy-compliant data processing and data and AI integration tools are key for Huawei. The Chinese tech giant has integrated these features into Cloud Stack to ensure secure data processing. In addition, Huawei has added over 30 services to CodeArts development pipelines, from infrastructure to specialized tools.

Data Center 2030: The Future of Data Centers

 

Huawei has unveiled a groundbreaking report called "Data Center 2030" that highlights the challenges and opportunities for data centers of the future. The report was prepared in collaboration with academics, customers, partners, and research institutes. It emphasizes the need to significantly scale up data centers and make them more efficient to meet increasing demands while achieving sustainability goals.

According to the report, the future of data centers lies in automating operations and maintenance. Along the way, scalability is expected to improve. In terms of security, the authors expect Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) to replace the standard Trusted Platform Module (TPM) in Big Data and AI models.

Looking ahead, the report predicts increased use of green energy in the data center, as well as the use of advanced technologies such as lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells. New cloud architectures and hyperconverged infrastructures are expected to help meet the demands of AI models and digital twins. Further, the report emphasizes the importance of new chip technologies such as chiplets and 3D chips. They are expected to cope with the increasing volumes of data.

Data center development is the key

 

Overall, Huawei's vision for data centers by 2030 shows that the technology industry is heading for an exciting future. The evolution of data centers will be critical to meeting the demands of the next decades. We can look forward to seeing how these technologies will change the way we process data and use AI in the coming years.

Source: heise.de


Nginx install on Ubuntu 22.04

Install Nginx on Ubuntu 22.04

The powerful web server and reverse proxy server Nginx lets you host and manage web applications. We will show you how to install it on an Ubuntu 22.04 server.

The powerful web server and reverse proxy server Nginx is known for its speed, stability and flexibility. The initial installation on Ubuntu 22.04 is quite simple - just follow the six steps below.

How to: Nginx install on Ubuntu 22.04

Step 1: Update your system

We recommend that you first update your Ubuntu 22.04 system before you start the installation. This will ensure that you have the latest software packages. To do this, open the terminal and run the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Enter your password when prompted and confirm the installation of the updates.

Step 2: Install the software

After your system is upgraded, you can install Nginx using the following command:

sudo apt install nginx

When prompted to confirm the installation, simply press "J" and "Enter" to continue. Nginx and all required dependencies will be downloaded and installed by the package manager.

Step 3: Start and activate the service

Once the installation is complete, launch the application with the following command:

sudo systemctl start nginx

To ensure that the software is started automatically at system startup, enable the service with this command:

sudo systemctl enable nginx

Step 4: Check the Nginx installation

Open your web browser and enter the IP address of your server or your domain name. Now you should see the default Nginx welcome page confirming the successful installation.

Step 5: Firewall configuration

If you are using a firewall on your server, you must open the HTTP port (port 80) so that the web server can be reached. Use the following commands to do this:

sudo ufw allow 'Nginx HTTP'
sudo ufw enable

Step 6: Configure your website

Now that Nginx is installed and ready to use, you can add your website configuration. The configuration files for Nginx are located in the directory /etc/nginx. You can create your site configuration in the file /etc/nginx/sites-available/your-site and then create a symbolic link to the folder /etc/nginx/sites-enabled/ to activate the configuration. Do not forget to restart Nginx after each configuration change:

sudo nano /etc/nginx/sites-available/your-site
sudo ln -s /etc/nginx/sites-available/your-site /etc/nginx/sites-enabled/
sudo nginx -t

sudo systemctl reload nginx

Ready to go!

Congratulations, web development on your Ubuntu 22.04 server can now begin! Remember to customize your Nginx configuration according to your requirements.


The Metaverse: The Next Evolutionary Stage of the Internet

The Metaverse: The Next Evolutionary Stage of the Internet

With the Metaverse, the next evolutionary stage of the Internet is in the starting blocks. It combines the digital and real worlds and will significantly change customer behavior. Companies should react early.

The Internet has fundamentally changed the way we communicate, shop and interact. In our increasingly digitized world, we may now be facing the next stage of evolution: the Metaverse. A recent study by management and technology consultancy BearingPoint sheds light on the exciting opportunities the Metaverse presents for businesses and brand manufacturers, and how this could impact consumer behavior.

Overview of the Metaverse

The Metaverse is a virtual plane that brings together various digital technologies. It combines both digital and real worlds in an immersive experience space. In this way, it promises companies not only competitive advantages, but also the opportunity to create unique customer experiences. The combination of digital and real worlds opens up new dimensions for interaction between companies and consumers.

The Next Evolutionary Stage of the Internet

After Web 1.0 and Web 2.0, the basic requirements for Web 3.0 and a functioning metaverse are now emerging. This requires increased use of artificial intelligence, personalized interaction and decentralization of the Internet. However, it is important to emphasize that the metaverse is not a simple evolution of the Internet. It will not replace existing software systems or mobile applications. Rather, it will drive the development of new technologies and influence our user behavior.

Metaverse as its own consumer world

The metaverse is not another marketing platform, but a consumer world of its own. Generation Z and Alpha in particular place their own demands on products and interactions. They expect authenticity, more intense relationships, and prioritize personal experiences over material things. Companies that want to operate successfully in the metaverse must adapt to these needs. They must develop corresponding worlds of experience, communication strategies and digital products. However, it must be remembered that core experiences must continue to be experienced in the real world.

Advantages of the Metaverse for companies

The study shows that companies can leverage the potential of the Metaverse to offer their customers an easier and more effective online shopping experience. The immersive nature of the Metaverse can create virtual, personalized consultations and shopping environments. Omnichannel strategies, where customers can test and buy products in the Metaverse and later pick them up in physical stores, offer an exciting opportunity to link virtual experience and physical consumption.

Companies should act now

Companies that invest and adapt early are likely to be in the best position to benefit from the opportunities of the Metaverse. An agile approach is advisable when exploring its technologies and principles. It is worth forming working groups of cross-functional experts to actively explore the opportunities and risks of the virtual world. Above all, concrete starting points for active experimentation should be identified, such as launching one's own NFT collection, sponsoring virtual events, or integrating AR and VR technologies into existing web stores.

Source: BearingPoint