Absolute OpenBSD

Absolute OpenBSD: Unix for the Practical Paranoid A technical manual that provides an in-depth exploration of the OpenBSD operating system. The book covers system administration, security practices, and network configuration while maintaining focus on OpenBSD's core principles of security and code correctness. The text moves systematically through essential topics including installation, user management, kernel configuration, and package management. Each chapter builds upon previous concepts, offering practical examples and command-line instructions for system administrators and technical users. Author Michael W. Lucas draws from extensive experience with BSD systems to present complex technical material in a structured format. The second edition (2013) updates the content to reflect significant changes in OpenBSD's architecture and security features. The book embodies OpenBSD's philosophy of security-first computing, serving as both a practical guide and a reflection of the operating system's commitment to robust system administration practices.

Readers describe this as a detailed technical manual that explains OpenBSD's features and security principles with clarity. Many note Lucas's straightforward writing style and humor make complex concepts accessible. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of system administration tasks - Practical configuration examples - In-depth coverage of OpenBSD security features - Useful for both beginners and experienced users - Well-organized reference material What readers disliked: - Some content becomes outdated between editions - Advanced users want more depth on certain topics - A few found the humor distracting Ratings: Amazon: 4.7/5 (89 reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (68 ratings) Sample review quotes: "Finally made OpenBSD approachable for me after years of struggling" - Amazon reviewer "Best technical writing I've encountered - explains not just how but why" - Goodreads user "Could use more coverage of custom kernel configuration" - Amazon reviewer

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🔷 OpenBSD has had only two remote holes in its default installation in over two decades, making it one of the most secure operating systems ever created. 🔷 Author Michael W. Lucas has written over 30 technical books, including titles about FreeBSD, NetBSD, and Linux system administration. 🔷 OpenBSD pioneered many security features now common in other operating systems, including the PF (Packet Filter) firewall and the OpenSSH protocol. 🔷 The OpenBSD project's mascot, Puffy the blowfish, was chosen to represent the system's "defensive" security approach and was created by artist Erick Green in 1996. 🔷 The book's subject, OpenBSD, is developed primarily in Calgary, Canada, and is funded largely through the sale of merchandise like T-shirts, CDs, and posters rather than corporate sponsorship.