X

Network glitch hits Slashdot

Problems with network routing equipment down several Open Source Development Network sites, including tech forum Slashdot.org.

Robert Lemos Staff Writer, CNET News.com
Robert Lemos
covers viruses, worms and other security threats.
Robert Lemos
Router problems downed several Open Source Development Network sites for days, including technology and news forum Slashdot.org.

Problems have plagued the site intermittently since Friday, when the network's router failed, according to a Saturday posting on Slashdot.

OSDN technicians fixed the problems late Sunday, according to Linux system-integrator VA Linux, which owns OSDN. But some surfers still could not access the sites Monday because they were being redirected to temporary Internet pages that OSDN set up during the difficulties. Depending on how often an Internet service provider refreshes its network hardware, many people may still be unable to access the sites.

"Slashdot.org, ThinkGeek.com, Freshmeat.net, Themes.org, GIFWorks, AnimFactory and OSDN.com are down at the moment because we're experiencing technical difficulties with our network routing equipment," stated the notice that greeted some surfers early Monday.

Despite the notice, only Slashdot, FreshMeat.net and Themes.org appeared to be unavailable as of 9:30 a.m. PDT. By noon, every site except Slashdot was accessible. In Slashdot's stead was a message asking readers to restart their browser or clear their domain name system cache.

The Open Source Development Network, once known as Andover.net, brings together several sites dedicated to the Linux operating system, open-source programming and the open-source philosophy.

A VA Linux representative said the problems primarily affected the sites on Saturday and Sunday.