by nv1962 | Noviembre 20th, 2002
I started toying more seriously with Linux a few weeks ago, by installing the Debian GNU/Linux distribution. In other words, you’re reading this from a Linux server. 
I was attracted to Debian for two main reasons: most importantly, because it is a prime example of open software (although Debian developers rather prefer the term free software instead) which to me is interesting for its general stability (updates and patches) and availability (of the software.) The other main reason to pick Debian is its splendid package management: aside from its very easy installation, keeping installed software up-to-date is as simple as typing “apt-get update” and then “apt-get upgrade” Obviously, that works only for anything installed by the Debian package manager.
So, the Debian package manager also keeps an eye on new updates (patches) of installed software as well. That’s especially important for Linux machines connected to the Internet, with the infamous skriptkiddos and such trying to pry open any exploits.
However, the reason I’m typing this is quite another. This afternoon I ran the update check, and… It got stuck on the security updates. Which is rather strange, considering the impressive array of servers running at Enschede University — located in the East of the Netherlands — that also acts as the worldwide host of Debian’s security updates.
As it turns out, the whole dataprocessing center is out of commission: it burned down this morning, at around 8 am local time… Quite the costly disaster: dozens of millions of euros worth of equipment up in flames. So much for fail-over redundancy.
Morale of it all: contingency planning beats patience. It’ll likely take a few days to have all services up and running again on emergency systems… For all fellow Debian users, it looks as if updates will be available again within 48 hours.
Still, here’s to the system administrators presently battling the aftermath of that fire.
PS: Sorry for not providing a link to the Enschede University website, but… Ahem.
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