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Hacker, as it relates to computers, has several common meanings. Hacker is often used by the mass media to refer to a person who engages in computer cracking and is also often by those in computing fields to refer to a person who is a computer enthusiast. At least three major hacker subcultures, characterized by their
largely distinct historical development, use the term in their jargon for self-identification.[1] They are centered around different, but partially overlapping aspects of computers and have conflicting ideas about
who may legitimately be called a hacker (see hacker definition controversy). In computer security, a hacker is someone who focuses on security mechanisms. In common use, which was popularized by the
mass media, that refers to someone who illegally breaks into computer and network systems. Nevertheless, parts of the subculture
see their aim in correcting security problems and use the word in a positive sense. This use is contrasted by the different
understanding of the word as a person who follows a spirit of playful cleverness and loves programming. It is found in an
originally academic movement unrelated to computer security and most visibly associated with free software and open source. In a third meaning, the term refers to computer hobbyists who push the limits of their software or hardware.
To create this e-zine, I just sat down and thought to myself: what do I like to read? The content comes from a variety of
sources: some I've written myself, some has been written by friends, and some has been contributed by other Internet users
just like you.
I hope you enjoy this e-zine. Be sure to send e-mail to let me know what you think (or to contribute
articles or ideas). I'll be updating frequently, so check back often!
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