This column looks into projects and current affairs in the world of free software from the perspective of the GNU Project and the FSF. In this issue, I’lll focus on Comspari and the EU decision on software patents.

The Twisted framework makes it so easy to create network-aware applications in Python. Twisted speaks all the major Internet protocols, from mail through chat, and it can handle encryption. We’ll show you how to set up a personal web server with Twisted.

Even the experts know there is always more to learn about scripting. In this month's cover story, we'll show you the Google Maps API, a networking framework for Python, and some other fine tools.

In the old days, shells were capable of little more than calling external programs and executing basic, internal commands. With all the bells and whistles in the latest versions of Bash, however, you hardly need the support of external tools.

The well-known Suse configuration program Yast 2 will be helping Debian users in future. And if you are looking for a way to relax after finishing your system administration chores, check out “Battle for Wesnoth.”

This column investigates projects and current affairs in the world of free software from the perspective of the GNU Project and the Free Software Foundation. In this issue, I’ll focus on Mbox-Cleaner and report on the World Social Forum in Porto Alegre.

Free software covers such a diverse range of utilities, applications, and other assorted projects that it can be hard to find the perfect tool. We pick the best of the bunch. This month’s column covers file management with Xfe, IRC, the Sync2cd backup tool, and email printing with Muttprint.