Dear users,

we have made good progress in the past few months: the ICT server structure has been largely implemented as envisioned. The four servers form the backbone of the ICT services of the Fusion Group, and most of the required codes have been installed and are running stably.

In the meantime, we have also moved from the G-wing of the N-Laag physics building to the second floor of the TNO building. After a few hickups that were resolved largely behind-the-scene, we have successfully reconnected all servers, laid out a good UTP port patch plan, installed the new LYNC telephony system and got back to business.

Since this month, we are now more stable in operation and less susceptible to hardware damage, as we moved the crucial servers behind a UPS system that can overcome up temporary power fluctuations and short power failures.

On the software side, we upgrade this month the last of our servers to the 12.04 LTS version of Ubuntu Linux, a Long Term Support version that should provide us better maintenance and stability of operation for the next few years.

The websites have been improved with a more recent effort, running latest version of Drupal and WordPress, and we have now established some private pages, i.e. password-protected areas that are only available to FUSION group members or for example, to those we allow to download the SOS software tool.

Focus will now be to complete documentation and streamline the processes of current operation (including creation and removal of accounts/permission), and to review the backup processes.

Mark.