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Showing posts from January, 2024

Code Signing and Virtual Box VM

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Signing an executable hello.exe: Note that you need to have and install a valid code-signing certificate. The current certificate I am using here is a cert signed by Sectigo. I will try to return to this to add instructions for doing this.  Assuming you have your cert installed and signtool.exe on your path, this below will sign a file that will be considered valid as long as your certificate is valid and the current date is within the time covered by your certificate. signtool sign hello.exe Doing the following additionally to the signed file above will link it to a current time stamp. As long as your certificate is valid at the time of signing and it remains valid, the signed file will be valid.  signtool timestamp /t http://timestamp.sectigo.com hello.exe --- Below is a cut and paste from an entry I made on Stackoverflow. I originally was asking how to do something but I was able to answer it myself before I got an answer: How can I sign an Oracle VirtualBox virtual applian...

Imperfect practice makes better

Re Quora question: "What are your thoughts on the idea that writing a lot of bad code will eventually lead to better coding skills (programming, software engineering)? Do you think there is any truth to this idea? If so, why do you think this is the case?" There is some truth to the idea that writing a lot of bad code can eventually lead to better coding skills in programming and software engineering. While practicing a skill area often, even if done poorly, can still provide some benefit, it is important to recognize the limitations and the need for deliberate practice to see meaningful improvement. Consistent practice is essential for skill development in any field, including coding. Even the most accomplished experts started at a lower level of skill and relied on practice to refine their abilities. The saying 'practice makes perfect' holds some truth in this context. Regular practice helps build familiarity, muscle memory, and neural pathways associated with the s...