Transforming a Windows workstation into a more efficient setup, the author has deployed a Linux virtual machine (VM) for various utilities, achieving a more organized workspace. This strategic move addresses the clutter caused by multiple tools that were previously tolerated but not trusted, particularly the Windows Task Scheduler.
With the transition to the Linux VM, scheduled tasks are now reliably managed through cron jobs and systemd timers. This change has eliminated previous concerns regarding task execution and reliability. The VM efficiently handles rsync jobs, pulling data from the workstation to a NAS, while offering clear logs for troubleshooting.
Additionally, network scanning has been optimized by utilizing Nmap on the VM. This setup allows for broader and more detailed scans without burdening the primary machine. Basic discovery and targeted scans can be executed quickly, providing clear insights into network activity and service responses.
Overall, using a Linux VM has streamlined the author’s workflow, centralizing tools and improving performance for both backup and network scanning tasks.