Linux Format

Linux Format is your complete guide to the world of Linux. Whether you've just discovered Linux, or you're a full-time guru, Linux Format has everything you need to make the most of your OS. The editorial formula is a mix of features, reviews and practical tutorials that tackle topics as far ranging as installing software to socket programming and network management. Thought-provoking features and interviews also provide a focus on key technologies, trends and issues in the fast-paced world of Free and Open Source software.

MEET THE TEAM • This issue, we’re setting up a Jellyfin media server – that was Neil’s first ever Linux-based project. What first got you installing Linux back in the day?

At your service

Free Software Foundation celebrates GNU at 40 • Since 1983, GNU has formed the backbone of key computer systems. The FSF reflects on all that’s great about copyleft and free software.

TOFU FOR ALL!

From Terraform to OpenTofu • OpenTofu is now overseen by the Linux Foundation.

Gnome 45 is coming • Gnome 45 ‘Rīga’ focuses on improved performance plus overhauling windows and file management.

Download manager was trojaned • Team issues script to check if Linux systems have been compromised.

Millions of LibreOffice! • The LibreOffice suite soars in popularity.

AV1 decoder • Kernel support for AV1 uAPI and stateless video decoders.

CODEC COUP

SECURITY FIRST

Distro watch • What’s behind the free software sofa?

Kernel Watch • Jon Masters keeps up with all the latest happenings in the Linux kernel, so you don’t have to.

MAC MAGIC

ONGOING DEVELOPMENT

Answers • Got a burning question about open source or the kernel? Whatever your level, email it to answers@linuxformat.com

Mailserver

LETTER OF THE MONTH

Seagate FireCuda 540 • Chris Szewczyk finds high performance and peace of mind. At a price.

AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT • Introducing a multi-chip RX 6800 XT for less – and Dave James thinks that it’s actually the best £500 GPU around.

Qubes 4.1.2 • Nate Drake explores the apex of Linux security: an OS that divides all your apps into colour-coded, isolated virtual machines.

Mageia 9 • Nate Drake visits the spiritual successor to Mandriva Linux and comes away enchanted.

Ubuntu 23.10 • Nate Drake dives into the labyrinth and finds Canonical has released another solid offering with its Mantic Minotaur iteration of Ubuntu.

Old World • A 4X (Explore, Expand, Exploit and Exterminate) game? Management is all ears and demands Fraser Brown plays it.

Fediverse servers • Looking to create your own online community? The fediverse is for you. David Rutland tests the best self-hosted fediverse servers available.

Hardware requirements

Ease of deployment

Customisation options

Customising and special features • What is it that makes these fediverse server types stand out above the rest?

Fediverse to go

Holding a conversation

Moderation and safety

The Verdict

STREAMING MADE EASY! • Bring together all your film, TV, music, audiobook and photo streaming needs under one roof. Nick Peers shows you how.

Install Jellyfin • Get set up and ensure your media files are organised correctly.

Stream films, TV and music • Jellyfin can cover almost all of your media streaming needs…

Back up and view photos and videos • Ditch the expensive subscription and back up (and stream) photos locally.

Stream audiobooks from your server • Why pay for Audible when you can host your own collection?

Pi-almOS PDA

The Pi Beret!

RASPBERRY PI STILL RULES

Astro Pi Mission Zero blasts off into...