Best of UNIX — September 2024

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   Article

   Lobsters·2y

   Managing dotfiles with chezmoi

   Managing dotfiles with version control provides benefits like backup and recovery, consistent configuration, and ease of migration. While traditional tools like GNU Stow have limitations, chezmoi offers a comprehensive solution with features such as templating, password manager support, full file encryption, and cross-platform capabilities. chezmoi simplifies dotfile management by integrating closely with version control systems, supporting encrypted secrets, and handling various edge cases. It allows easy setup and management of dotfiles across multiple machines with minimal dependencies.

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   Article

   Hacker News·2y

   Better Dotfiles

   A method to reorganize dotfiles without using superfluous managers or the 'version control $HOME' method by incorporating first-line comments in files for symlink creation. Using `awk` and a few shell commands, the process simplifies symlink management and checks, making the setup self-contained and requiring minimal dependencies common to Unix-like systems.

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   Article

   Community Picks·2y

   To NeoVim, Or Not to NeoVim

   NeoVim, despite its popularity, is criticized for failing to add significant value over Vim and detracting from essential Vi/m learning. The post argues that NeoVim's configuration changes, additional defaults, and altered features diverge from the core Unix philosophy and dilute the real benefits of using Vim. Moreover, criticisms include the removal of key features integral to Vim, resulting in a bloat that undermines performance and utility. While NeoVim offers options like multiple plugin support and better defaults, these are deemed unnecessary for those proficient in Vi/m.

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   Video

   Eric Parker·2y

   the new "9.9" Severity Linux Vunlerability

   A CVSS 9.9 severity vulnerability affecting all systems using the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) allows remote unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands when a print job is started. This is less severe than vulnerabilities like EternalBlue but still poses a significant risk, especially if systems are exposed to the internet. Properly configured firewalls can mitigate some threats, and updating CUPS is recommended to prevent exploitation.

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