As the use of Linux
has increased exponentially in the last three years, the use of the
Linux file-system is causing some problems to InterWeb service
providers. Linux could, in fact, be responsible for the 'slowing
down' of the InterWeb that many users are experiencing. How is this
possible? It's the 'sticky bit' that is to blame.
In Linux and other
Unix-like operating systems, the 'sticky bit' is used as an ownership
access right flag that can be assigned to files and directories.
Although the kernel ignores the sticky bit on files, when Linux
computers are connected to the InterWeb, these sticky bits start to
flow through the pipes that connect the InterWeb together. Or do
they?
Because of their
'sticky' nature, many of these bits get stuck to the interior of the
pipes. Because most of the pipes can handle a lot of InterWeb
traffic, this has not been a problem, up until now. Sticky bits are
starting to clog the pipes, and the build up of 'stuck' bits and
bytes is now starting to slow down InterWeb traffic. Sites take
longer to load, and small packets of data (like short emails), may
get stuck and delayed or even lost forever.
One researcher
thinks he may have an answer, and has developed a 'statin like bit
cleanser' which he thinks can unblock the system. Dr. William Brush
is preparing to release his bit cleanser into the InterWeb pipe
network later today.
Traffic should start
to speed up – but beware: the unleashed torrent of sticky bits and
bytes may pour out, uncontrollably into your computer. Should you
notice this flood, the best thing to do is to immediately turn off
your InterWeb access before irreversible damage is caused to your
furniture and carpets.
