Re: Desktop NetBSD needs your help

["James K. Lowden" <jklowden%schemamania.org@localhost>]

Hi Andrew, 

> We need help with this project! If you have the time, ambition, skill
> and aren't afraid to get your hands dirty, then please volunteer!

The NetBSD administrative user interface should be web-based.  The system
should start httpd listening on localhost:2 (say).  All administration can
then be done with any browser invoking a set of cgi scripts, or other
technologies as needs warrant.  

Advantages:

1.  No discussion about GUI toolkits.
2.  Adapts readily to different display devices, including remote and
text.    
3.  Ease of development and customization (& division of labor). 
4.  Ease of debugging and logging. 
5.  Leverages existing command-line tools. 
6.  Access admin tools and docs using familiar interface.   
7.  Emphasizes the "net"  in NetBSD!  

Prior art:

1.  Samba SWAT
2.  CUPS

Challenges: 

1.  Security.  Many solutions but it's bound to be controversial.  
2.  BSD-licensed browser.  None worth mentioning unless we port Google's
Chrome.  
To me it's clear the challenges are easily met and the advantages many.  I
am interested in supporting such a project.   

Regards, 

--jkl