Cover Theme: Choose a Shell

DVD Theme: Arch Linux 2021.02.01 and MX Linux mx-19.3

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You're never stuck with the same old command shell – unless you want to be. This month we review some of the leading alternatives. Also inside:

• Boop – this scriptable digital notepad lets you keep your conversions local.
• Converting Images to Text – tricky tools for text as a medium for your art.

Check out MakerSpace for a look at building a minimal Raspberry Pi OS from source, and turn to Linux Voice for a story on the new (and old) protocols that just might save the Internet.

Cover Theme: Stream Processing

DVD Theme: FreeBSD 12.2 and GhostBSD 20.11.28

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The explosion of real-time data from sensors and monitoring devices is fueling new interest in alternative programming techniques. This month we wade into stream processing.

Also in this issue:

• Kconfig Deep Dive – We explore the powerful yet mysterious Linux kernel configuration system.
• Safe Messaging with TLSA -- Tighten up security using DNS and the TLSA resource record.

Check out MakerSpace for an article on the souped-up 8GB Raspberry Pi 4, and look in Linux Voice for a complete tutorial on building a computer game with the Godot game engine.

Cover Theme: iNet

DVD Theme: Linux Mint 20 and Kali Linux 2020.4

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With Linux, more innovation is always on the way. This month we take a look at the iNet wireless daemon, a new wireless client that is poised to replace the venerable WPA Supplicant.

Also in this issue:

• ExifTool and jExifToolGUI – read and manage image metadata from the command line.
• Optimizing Vector Graphics – small but expressive vector graphics files are great for websites, but if you're looking to optimize, get ready for some tweaking.

Check out MakerSpace for an exotic escape room puzzle built on Arduino, and visit LinuxVoice for a tutorial on Ventoy, an innovative app that lets you build multi-boot USB sticks.

Cover Theme: 3D Printing

DVD Theme: Ubuntu 20.10 "Groovy Gorilla" and Fedora 33 Workstation

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The weird, wonderful, futuristic world of 3D printing is waiting for you right now if you're willing to invest a little time and energy. This month we help you get started with practical 3D printing in Linux. Also in this month's issue:

• TOPSIS – Use Python and the TOPSIS urban planning technique to choose the best solution from a group of competing alternatives.
• Nyttig – Turn your Raspberry Pi into a personal micro server.

Look in MakerSpace for a tutorial on building an electronic Nerf ball game, and check out the Stacer system maintenance tool in this month's Linux Voice.