Robyn is a Python web framework designed for speed and simplicity, leveraging Rust's performance under the hood. It aims to provide an asynchronous, scalable solution for building web applications and APIs with a minimal learning curve. Features include automatic code reloading, type hints, and a built-in router. Robyn promotes a straightforward approach to web development, allowing developers to focus on application logic rather than complex configurations. It draws inspiration from other frameworks like Node.js's Express and aims to offer a competitive alternative in the Python ecosystem.
The blog post "Nginx: try_files is evil too" argues against using the try_files directive in Nginx configurations, especially for serving static files. While seemingly simple, its behavior can be unpredictable and lead to unexpected errors, particularly when dealing with rewritten URLs or if file existence checks are bypassed due to caching. The author advocates for using simpler, more explicit location blocks to define how different types of requests should be handled, leading to improved clarity, maintainability, and potentially better performance. They suggest separate location blocks for specific file types and a final catch-all block for dynamic requests, promoting a more transparent and less error-prone approach to configuration.
Hacker News commenters largely disagree with the article's premise that try_files is inherently "evil." Several point out that the author's proposed alternative using location blocks with regular expressions is less performant and more complex, especially for simpler use cases. Some argue that the author mischaracterizes try_files's purpose, which is primarily for serving static files efficiently, not complex routing. Others agree that try_files can be misused, leading to confusing configurations, but contend that when used appropriately, it's a valuable tool. The discussion also touches on alternative approaches, such as using a separate frontend proxy or load balancer for more intricate routing logic. A few commenters express appreciation for the article prompting a re-evaluation of their Nginx configurations, even if they don't fully agree with the author's conclusions.
This 2010 essay argues that running a nonfree program on your server, even for personal use, compromises your freedom and contributes to a broader system of user subjugation. While seemingly a private act, hosting proprietary software empowers the software's developer to control your computing, potentially through surveillance, restrictions on usage, or even remote bricking. This reinforces the developer's power over all users, making it harder for free software alternatives to gain traction. By choosing free software, you reclaim control over your server and contribute to a freer digital world for everyone.
HN users largely agree with the article's premise that "personal" devices like "smart" TVs, phones, and even "networked" appliances primarily serve their manufacturers, not the user. Commenters point out the data collection practices of these devices, noting how they send usage data, location information, and even recordings back to corporations. Some users discuss the difficulty of mitigating this data leakage, mentioning custom firmware, self-hosting, and network segregation. Others lament the lack of consumer awareness and the acceptance of these practices as the norm. A few comments highlight the irony of "smart" devices often being less functional and convenient due to their dependence on external servers and frequent updates. The idea of truly owning one's devices versus merely licensing them is also debated. Overall, the thread reflects a shared concern about the erosion of privacy and user control in the age of connected devices.
The blog post explores using #!/usr/bin/env uv as a shebang line to execute PHP scripts with the uv runner, offering a performance boost compared to traditional PHP execution methods like php-fpm. uv leverages libuv for asynchronous operations, making it particularly advantageous for I/O-bound tasks. The author demonstrates this by creating a simple "Hello, world!" script and showcasing the performance difference using wrk. The post concludes that while setting up uv might require some initial effort, the potential performance gains, especially in asynchronous contexts, make it a compelling alternative for running PHP scripts.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and security implications of using uv as a shebang line. Some questioned the benefit given the small size savings compared to a full path, while others highlighted potential portability issues and the risk of uv not being installed on target systems. A compelling argument against this practice centered on security, with commenters noting the danger of path manipulation if uv isn't found and the shell falls back to searching the current directory. One commenter suggested using env to locate usr/bin/env reliably, proposing #!/usr/bin/env uv as a safer, though slightly larger, alternative. The overall sentiment leaned towards avoiding this shortcut due to the potential downsides outweighing the minimal space saved.
Summary of Comments ( 48 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43228333
Hacker News users discussed Robyn's performance, ease of use, and niche appeal. Some praised its speed, asynchronous nature, and the novelty of a Python framework leveraging Rust. Others questioned the practical benefits over existing frameworks like Flask or FastAPI, especially for simpler projects. Several commenters expressed interest in learning more about the Rust integration and its impact on performance. The "Batman-inspired" branding was met with mixed reactions, some finding it playful while others deemed it unprofessional. Overall, the discussion revolved around Robyn's potential and whether it offers a compelling advantage over established alternatives. A few users highlighted potential deployment challenges due to the Rust component.
The Hacker News post titled "Show HN: Robyn – “Batman Inspired” Python Web Framework Built with Rust" generated a moderate amount of discussion, primarily focusing on Robyn's performance claims, its niche compared to existing frameworks, and the unusual "Batman-inspired" branding.
Several commenters questioned the benchmark presented in the Robyn documentation, which showed significantly faster performance than other Python frameworks. They pointed out potential flaws in the methodology, such as the lack of details about the test environment and the possibility of optimization specifically for the benchmark scenario. Some suggested more rigorous benchmarking practices, including the use of established tools like TechEmpower Web Framework Benchmarks, to provide a more realistic comparison. There was a general sense of skepticism towards performance claims without robust supporting evidence.
Another recurring theme was the positioning of Robyn within the existing Python web framework ecosystem. Commenters questioned what specific problems Robyn solves that aren't already addressed by popular frameworks like Flask, Django, FastAPI, or others built with similar hybrid Python/Rust architectures such as Japronto. The consensus seemed to be that while performance is important, Robyn needs to demonstrate a clear advantage beyond raw speed to justify its adoption, particularly given the learning curve associated with a new framework.
The "Batman-inspired" branding was met with mixed reactions. Some found it intriguing and playful, while others considered it unprofessional and potentially confusing. There was a discussion about whether this branding would help or hinder the project's adoption, with some arguing that it could alienate potential users looking for a serious and reliable framework.
A few commenters expressed interest in the project and inquired about specific features, such as database integration and asynchronous task handling. However, the overall sentiment was cautiously optimistic, with many waiting for more concrete evidence of Robyn's capabilities and a clearer articulation of its target audience and use cases.
Finally, a couple of commenters noted the relative lack of activity on the project's GitHub repository, expressing concerns about its long-term maintenance and support. They suggested that more community involvement and contributions would be crucial for the project's success.