Linux

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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Laptop Recommendation Please (Solved) (lemmy.one)

submitted 4 months ago* (last edited 4 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

39 comments fedilink hide all child comments

(Solved) I would like a small laptop to use to log medical data (Weight, Blood Pressure, etc) as I gather it. I need it to be small like 10'. it can be low power because I will probably use it only CLI, no GUI, but I need it to be inexpensive. ARM-based is ok, as long as I can SSH into my desktop machine.

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[–] [email protected] 6 points 4 months ago* (last edited 4 months ago) (3 children)

I own old Chromebook.

Chromebook software updates are not forever.

It is my understanding that some Chromebooks might be locked in such a way that installation of Linux might NOT be an option or the might be a high chance of bricking the device.

At least that was the case with my Chromebook.

So, once OS updates are unavailable, the machine might become a weak link from security standpoint or stop running some software.

Chromebook is still a great option, but be careful with very old ones.

[–] [email protected] 8 points 4 months ago

It's always worth checking if MrChromebox supports your specific Chromebook. I got Debian running on an old Chromebook a few months back for fun, but I had to compile a custom kernel to get audio working because AMD Stoney Ridge is weird.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 4 months ago

So, once OS updates are unavailable, the machine might become a weak link from security standpoint or stop running some software.

That's why I specified:

Double check before buying that it can be wiped and you can put Linux on it.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 4 months ago (1 children)

I got a $50 EOL Chromebook that I loaded CinnaMint (it's right there... Why say "Mint Cinnamon "...) on.

I use it as my sketchy torrent getting machine, Because if something goes wrong, oh well.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 4 months ago

What is sketchy about downloading a torrent that it could save you from? Wouldn't it be executing whatever you downloaded on another machine that would be the risky part?