Why does IRLP only run on Linux, and is there a particular version of Linux preferred?
All new IRLP nodes are now being built for CentOS. We run LINUX in general for the following reasons: 1) Windows applications are prone to crashing. Most IRLP node uptimes are measured in months or years, not days.2) Linux uses the resources of the machine much better. To run the equivalent system under Windows, you would require a much more powerful machine. 3) The windows operating system cost money. Linux and Speak Freely are FREE. 4) There is no remote updating features under Windows that do not require a reboot. All IRLP and Linux updates are performed automatically each evening and never require restarting the computer. 5) Windows has no remote connections that are easily set up. All IRLP nodes can be remotely accessed via secure shell from any internet connected machine. We have to update the software as updates become available, IRLP and Linux updates are performed automatically and never require a reboot. Windows lacks the features for smooth updating..
