Schneier on Security

Discussion of security-related topics tend to scare away all but the geekiest of readers, but Bruce Schneier's blog is different. He approaches tricky technologies and infuriariting policy issues with a calm, clear voice, and frequently prompts comments from people who would never dream of posting on a security blog.

Highlights

— Conversation with Kip Hawley, TSA Administrator (Part 2): "This feels so much like 'cover your ass' security: you're screening our shoes because everyone knows Richard Reid hid explosives in them, and you'll be raked over the coals if that particular plot ever happens again. "

— MySpace and U.S. Attorneys General Agree to Fight Sexual Predators: "It's just security theater against a movie-plot threat."

Venture Hacks

The "hacks" on this blog consist of advice and introductions for entrepreneurs, with a range of philosophies and tips from the many VCs and investors who contribute.

Highlights

— Half-Assed Startup: How do I start my company and keep my day job?: "What will it take for everyone to dive in full-time? 5,000 active users? 10,000 uniques a week? Funding? The target should be a shared understanding. You don't want one founder who is ready to go full-time while the other has reservations."

— How much money should we raise?: "Raise as much money as possible. With these caveats: (1) maintain control at any cost, (2) monitor your liquidation preference, and (3) act like you don't have a lot of money."

Paul Stamatiou

He blogs. He codes. He starts startups. He speaks Greek. He has a Timbuk2 Messenger Bag — the Facebook Employee-only version. All this, and Paul hasn't even graduated from college yet. If you want to grok the mindset of the Y Combinator crowd, Paul's well-written blog is a great starting point.

Highlights

— On Being a Website Performance Junkie: "In my testing with the Firebug net tool Mint consumed approximately 200 to 300ms (with crazy peaks of > 500ms at times) of loading time, where as Google Analytics only used around 40 - 60ms. "

— Why I Don't Play Games and What I Would Play If I Did: "I have haven't played any games of my own in years — such is the curse of the Mac user."