Google

As posted on the Official Google Blog, Google announced that they will provide companies with a free Google Mini if companies replace their legacy search engine hardware.  Interested parties can click here to sign up for the offer. 

Well, I've started to have my issues with Google (even though I will support them and recognize them as an industry leader right now). I have two major concerns that I want to address, but both have the same "mystery" theme.

Issue #1 stems from their non-disclosure and inability to easily determine the latest versions of their software. Currently, the have Desktop Search, Toolbar, Earth, Talk, Secure Access and other apps released to users (regardless of the beta tag), but each product's respective page doesn't state anything about current product version. How is a user supposed to know or be alerted that a new version of software they use has been updated? I've tried adding as many of the Google Blogs to my RSS Reader (not their Reader which has issues) and even setup Google News Alerts for new product information.

Google has done it again - creating a secure WiFi alternative that could actually be used as one giant proxy server by the entire world. I for one welcome our new Google overlords ...You can read the review and info here on my forums!

Google Talk Instant Messaging/VoIP Client released. So Google has finally entered the IM market with a pretty interesting application. The obvious highlight of this application is single click VoIP calling to any user you have on your Buddy List. Basically, all you need is a Gmail (Google e-mail) account and a microphone and you're all set (well you need friends too, but I can't help you with that). I've posted more info about the Google Talk client and some of its features such as the Wumpus Easter Egg game here.

Google Hacking Using Unsalted MD5 Hashes - After being inspired by a recent Slashdot article, I worte up a quick "How To" on utilizing Google's search capabilities (and potentially even more dangerous, The Wayback Machine) to perform cracks on unsalted MD5 hashes. You can find my quick little forum write-up in the Hagrin.com forum.