[opk]

We use Oracle Linux where I work because we used to use Solaris. At one point it looked suspiciously like Redhat had explicitly removed support for some Oracle hardware from their kernel and the UEK saved us. Besides the kernel they also offer a few other extras and optional newer versions like dtrace, support for some extra filesystems and newer KVM. I get the impression that the fact that they're underdogs in the Linux market helps to keep them honest. Much of their key staff are clearly open source advocates even if Larry only cares about money. And while the Oracle support is not up to the standards of the old Sun support it really isn't a bad choice. And it'd be easy to switch away if we ever need to.

[ineedasername]

>Redhat had explicitly removed support for some Oracle hardware

Sure, if you already had Oracle as a hardware vendor then the cat is out of the bag, barn doors open w/ horse gone. After that, using their distro isn't going to increase your attack surface much, the killer is already inside the house.

[noizejoy]

Off-topic, but I have to admit enjoying the liberally mixed metaphors of things leaving and entering barns, bags and buildings.

And the music maker side of me thinks your post has the beginnings of a promising blues lyric. :-)

[ineedasername]

Thanks! I never saw a problem with mixing metaphors so long as it still conveyed your thoughts accurately. Language is fluid, let it flow.