bits and pieces

SDF or “Free” Hosting?

Posted by admin on Mar 20 2007

I’ve noticed over the years that there is a steady trickle of “free” hosting services out there. Some of them which are darn good: Scripting support (PHP, Perl, etc), mySQL databases, lots of storage space, high bandwidth limits/allowances… I’ve even started a few programming projects using these free hosts. I am also currently a META-ARPA SDF Charter member. Why pay annual “dues” and give donations when similar hosting services can be had for “free”?

SDF (aka Freeshell) isn’t a hosting service. Website hosting support is one of the “perks” that have surfaced with this organization but it isn’t the end-all purpose. SDF provides access to a unix shell account with graduated services depending on the user’s membership level. But even at the lowest level (free) one has access to a Unix shell account to tinker around with.

SDF is more than just a shell account… it’s a community. There’s bulletin boards to share thoughts, ideas, projects or pleas for help (which are usually generously replied to!). There’s also shared project areas, a place for “games” and even an occaisional chat session in between. SDF is a workspace/playspace at a crossroads where so many different types of personalities may not even meet IRL (In Real Life…)

SDF: We’re programmers, technicians, enthusiasts and even curious bystanders who want to learn more about technology and how it fits in this “modern” world.