Linux Magazine #294 - Digital Issue
MAY 2025 – Secure Browsers
The Internet is much nosier than it used to be, and many believe leading browsers like Chrome and Firefox are part of the problem. This month we highlight some secure browser alternatives that will help you surf without leaving a trail.
DVD contents are not available with the digital version of the magazine.
IN THIS ISSUE:
Kernel News
* Doing the Two-Step
* Doing the Too-Much Step
Secure Browsers
Many users don't realize that some of the leading web browsers collect user data without asking for permission. This article looks at five secure alternatives for greater privacy.
Distro Walk – Chimera Linux
Chimera Linux combines core tools from diverse sources to deliver a simple yet complete modern operating system.
Zen Browser
Zen Browser, an open source Firefox fork, promises users greater convenience and improved data protection, along with customizable display modes to help you stay focused on your work.
Automated Process Monitoring
A simple Python script checks to see if a process is running and, if not, notifies the user via Telegram.
Blockchain
After all the hype, we look at where Blockchain is being used today outside cryptocurrencies.
Command Line – Modernizing Commands
Many traditional commands now have modern replacements. With tasksel, you can install all of them in a single step.
Programming Snapshot – Go Animation
Rather than using ho-hum bar graphs to display Internet bandwidth usage, Mike Schilli enlists cartoon characters to do the job. Along the way, you get a free introduction to 2D-gaming sprite technology.
Bash Stats
With just one line of Bash, you can use tools like AWK and gnuplot to quickly analyze and plot your data.
DiffPDF
Most PDF viewers lack a function for comparing PDF files, but DiffPDF shows you the differences at a glance.
Lua on OpenWrt, Pi, and PS Vita
Lua is an interesting Python alternative for small embedded machines that are not sufficiently powerful to run Python scripts. We let an outdoor Pi send temperature data to a PS Vita display.
CO2 Sensors
Monitor your indoor air quality with an inexpensive CO2 sensor. We look at three candidates to help you find the best solution.
Doghouse – Openness
There's value in open software, hardware, and data in what may seem like some of the most basic tools for computer users.
Ad-Free Videos
YouTube is slowly becoming less usable every year. Piped, a privacy conscious YouTube front end, might be just what you need to enjoy YouTube content once again.
Rescuing Nintendo Games
The Nintendo Network went dark in 2024, but a thriving FOSS community continues to support the Wii platform and other Nintendo devices. We'll introduce you to some of the tools you can use to reclaim the magic.
FOSSPicks
Nate explores the top FOSS, including the shiny new Zen Browser, a secure file eraser, an online office suite, and a very cool team combat game.
Tutorial – Nextcloud Plugins
Using apps to make Nextcloud more efficient and private.