Linux that runs in ram

Linux in RAM: debirf way 2018

Do you want to have absolute disk speed nowadays, don’t you? Let’s revise how it could be done with versioning and automation in 2018.

От модератора: нам в Песочницу пришла статья на английском языке. Мы её прочитали и и в качестве пятничного эксперимента решили опубликовать. Не судите строго, всем peace and happy Friday! Let’s come together! Короче, фром зе боттом оф ауа хартс.

Changelog:

You must know before running this tutorial:

you can replace:

Steps to preparing

They are (optional) enable non-free components for basic installation. In addition, I think, you will need the non-free repository.

• open line number 107 of file /usr/bin/debirf like nano +107 $(which debirf)
• find function create_debootstrap
• find line like local OPTS=»
• add —components main,contrib,non-free in brackets

Up to start:

Let’s imagine, our flash drive:

• must to be fast, so it is recommended to use 8+ class, or booting will take enough time
• /dev/sdb
• formated
• mounted at /media/root/8B46-1189 .
• our working directory /root/Projects/debirf/

Install debirf

• mtools needed for create iso via debirf (not working, but needed)
• genisoimage needed for create real working iso (optional)

Prepare debirf working directory

And configure /root/Projects/debirf/rescue/debirf.conf

Create LiR

Test it

The command to start the virtual machine:

Test sample

Install grub to flash drive and copy LiR on it

I recommend you use bios legacy boot and package grub-pc. Not tested with UEFI, but must work. Next lines will be do:

• create mount point (on GUI-powered systems enabled auto-mount it isn’t needed)
• mount usb key to mount point (on GUI-powered systems enabled auto-mount it isn’t needed)
• install grub
• copy grub file
• copy initramfs (system)
• copy vmlinuz (kernel)
• unmount usb key
• remove mount point

Create bootable iso (optional)

• download isolinux.bin
• create isolinux config file
• create iso

Check result

minute you will see many lines. after it ends — press enter to see welcome message

login: root, no password

Customize it: Create custom debirf module

Module — executable sh script for running during LiR creating

• create module file
• the order of file’s names is important. In file network the resolving file will be changed to the system-resolved, and you can’t work with the network;
• lines from 1 to 3 must be present, line 3 must present file name
• if you want install package — use construction #DEBIRF_PACKAGE>+
• if you want work with rootfs — use $DEBIRF_ROOT
• if you want to run command in fakeroot — use debirf_exec

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Is there a linux OS that can be loaded entirely into RAM?

I have 32 GB of memory in my PC. This is more than enough for a linux OS. Is there an easy to use version of Linux (Ubuntu preferably) that can be booted via optical or USB disk and be run completely within RAM? I know a live disc can be booted with a hard disk, but stuff still runs off the disc and this takes a while to load. I’d like everything loaded into RAM and then run from there, completely volatile. Any files I need to create would be saved to a USB disk.

I’m aware of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_distributions_that_run_from_RAM but these all depend on a little bit of RAM. I’d prefer something like Ubuntu instead of these light versions.

9 Answers 9

I think all distros can be run from RAM, you only need to do some changes. Read this link

You need to have in mind that any changes (updates, and the like) that you do to the filesystem that is in memmory are lost when you turn of your machine, so you need to stablish a mechanism to update your HD with those changes BEFORE the system goes down, that will delay the shutting down of the system.

Ubuntu can run on RAM, but it requires some manual changes:

Puppy linux is a distro that can be and is designed to run from RAM.

Parrot Security OS. You have the option to load the OS directly into RAM, I believe MXLinux also allows that, no config files, straight from the boot loader you select load OS into RAM.

The Parrot & MX boot menu actually have a ton of options for different ways to run the OS. There are two versions ‘home’ and ‘security’, either one is suitable for a daily driver, unlike similar distros like Kali. Its basically a Debian MATE desktop and in the menu one of the tabs says parrot OS, in that tab you will find all of your hacker/cracker utils. Otherwise its just Debian MATE, a very nice looking Desktop.

Also it simplifies networking and starting/stopping processes in the applications menu. I loaded it into 10gb of ddr3 ram on a computer from 2012 and it runs fast. Also DietPi makes an X86 version that is crazy fast and runs in RAM.

If you do not care about package managers tiny core also runs in RAM its just and ‘odd’ distro.

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The Best Linux Distributions That Can Run Entirely On RAM

Running a Linux distribution completely from RAM has many benefits. First, reading/writing directly from RAM is exponentially faster than using a HDD/SSD. Second, running from RAM means you will have fewer problems with reboots and drive life. Third, running the entire operating system from RAM means you could potentially speed up virtualization. Fourth, it’s a great way to try out an operating system without having to fully commit. And finally, it’s a fun way to make old computers feel like new again. So here’s our top five list of Linux distributions that runs on RAM. Don’t forget that you can install any of these Linux distributions using Etcher.

Alpine Linux – When You Like It Simple And Secure

Five years ago, the Alpine Linux distribution was basically unheard of. But it has been gaining popularity in the last few years, mainly because of Docker. It’s a community-developed operating system, which began as an off-shoot of the LEAF (Linux Embedded Appliance Framework) Project. It is not GNU and instead uses musl and BusyBox. Alpine is lean and mean, coming in at only 5mb. It’s based on uClibc, which means it does not require much RAM. It’s also one of the most secure Linux distributions you can find, which is not surprising since it was originally designed for servers and routers. The packages are built using Stack Smashing Protection and PIE (Position Independent Executables). Alpine works best for things like Docker containers and embedded devices, but it could also be used as a desktop as long as you are comfortable with its limitations. You’re not going to get a “plug and play” desktop experience and will have to put it some work. However, its minimalist features make it ideal for using it on an older machine.

Porteus – When You Like Options

The Porteus Distribution is a comprehensive Linux operating system that was designed specifically to be used on portable devices. It is probably the most polished out of all of the distributions that can run from entirely from RAM. Porteus began in 2010 as a community project and was originally called Slax Remix. It’s fast and small–less than 300mb. It comes in both 32 and 64 bit versions and has support for several languages. Also, it can be installed without having to create a new partition. Porteus comes with a lot of software choices right out of the box, and the user chooses what options s/he wants before installing. This makes it a great choice for those who need a comprehensive system. It is also modular. The packages are separate modules with xzm extensions that can be activated or deactivated. The great thing about being modular is that it’s hard to break. It always boots “fresh”, meaning it deletes the module and brings things back to the way it was. This also makes it really easy to test out different things, like desktop environments. You can install Porteus using Rufus. Download a copy of Porteus and tinker away!

Knoppix – An Oldie But Goodie

Knoppix was initially released in September 2000 by Klaus Knopper. It was among the first Linux distributions that were actually designed to run entirely from RAM. There are two editions of Knoppix: there’s a 700mb CD-ROM version and there’s a 4.7gb DVD Maxi version (of course, either can be used on a flash drive). It comes with support for German and English. Out of the box, it works on 32 and 64-bit systems and has over 2600 applications. Out of all of the bootable distributions, Knoppix arguably has the best hardware detection capabilities. Additionally, Knoppix has removed systemd since version 8.5. If you’re not aware of the controversy surrounding systemd, it has long been accused of several security vulnerabilities. This distribution is based on the KDE environment, which means the desktop is quite visually appealing. It’s on the heavier side, so this is not one to use with older hardware. That being said, the heaviest Linux distribution is still much less taxing on system resources than Windows.

Puppy – When You Have An Older Computer And You Love Puppies

Puppy Linux was designed in 2003 by Barry Kauler and was made for home computing. This distribution is not a stand-alone distribution; it is actually a collection of various Linux distributions. The distributions in this collection share the same design principles, tools and applications, which provides for consistent behaviors. It’s lightweight, amazingly fast and easy to use. Because it was designed for home computing, it has a lovely GUI and comes out of the box with the typical applications needed for daily life. Once installed, Puppy is so user-friendly that even your Grandpa will enjoy it, but it’s not a great choice for a beginner to actually install. Some things are hard to achieve, and the install can be a bit clunky. Additionally, Puppy was also designed with older computers in mind, which makes it a great choice if you have an ancient machine but still want something that resembles Windows. It goes easy on system resources, as it uses Openbox window managers and JWM by default. So, dig out that 1999 Compaq with its CD-ROM drive and start having some fun.

Tails – When You’re Afraid Your Little Brother Is Reading Your Search History

If you had only one word to describe the Tails distribution, it would be privacy. Tails aims to provide complete internet anonymity for its users. Tails stands for The Amnesic Incognito Live System. It’s a Debian-based distribution that was first released in June 2009. Out of the box, it comes with a mail client, web browser, IRC client and instant messenger, which have all been designed with security as a top priority. The word “amnesic” in the Tails acronym means that every time you shut down your computer, all modifications and files that were created during that session will be deleted. Essentially, Tails always reverts back to its original state and once you remove your USB drive, no trace of you is left on the device. Perhaps more importantly, all incoming and outgoing connections must go through the Tor network, otherwise the connection is blocked. Tails says that these features allow users to enjoy the internet without the risk of censorship, surveillance or viruses. And if you are left with any doubt of this distribution’s security, this is the system that Edward Snowden used when he emailed documents to journalists and avoided detection by the NSA.

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Best Lightweight Linux Distributions For Older Computers

Last updated September 14, 2021 By Ankush Das 384 Comments

Brief: Don’t throw your old computer just yet. Use a lightweight Linux distro and revive that decades-old system.

What do you do with your old computers? The one which once had good a hardware configuration but now potentially outdated.

Why not revive your old computer with Linux? I am going to list the best lightweight Linux distributions that you can use on old computers.

Some of the distributions mentioned here are also a part of the best Linux distributions for beginners. So, you might want to check that if you’re new to the Linux universe.

While our focus is on older computers, you can also use most of these lightweight Linux distros on relatively new hardware. This will give you a better performance if you use your computer for resource-heavy usage such as video editing on Linux.

Let’s see which lightweight Linux distribution you can use.

Best Lightweight Linux distros for old laptops and desktops

Note: The list is in no particular order of ranking, take a look at the minimum system requirements to choose one for yourself.

16. Q4OS

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Q4OS is a Debian-based distribution which aims to provide a fast experience while also offering a 32-bit option. In fact, it is one of the best options for 32-bit systems. It features the Trinity Desktop for 32-bit edition and the KDE Plasma desktop on 64-bit image.

It may not offer the best looking user interface, but it is simple and it is indeed screaming fast on older hardware. You can easily try this on your old computer to test it out.

Minimum Requirements for Q4OS:

• RAM: 128 MB (Trinity Desktop) / 1 GB (Plasma Desktop)
• CPU: 300 MHz (Trinity Desktop) / 1 GHz (Plasma Desktop)
• Storage Space: 5 GB (Plasma Desktop) / 3 GB (Trinity Desktop)

15. Slax

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Slax is a really portable lightweight Linux distro based on Debian which you can use it on a USB drive without installing it.

The ISO file size is just under 300 MB – which makes it a great option for older computers. The user interface is simple and usable with essential pre-built packages for an average user. You can even try to customize the OS and make permanent changes on the fly if you require it.

Minimum system requirements for Slax:

• RAM: 128 MB (offline usage) / 512 MB (for web browser usage)
• CPU: i686 or newer

14. Ubuntu MATE

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Ubuntu MATE is an impressive lightweight Linux distro that runs fast enough on older computers. It features the MATE desktop – so the user interface might seem a little different at first but it’s easy to use as well.

In addition to the desktop support, you can also try it on a Raspberry Pi or Jetson Nano.

Minimum system requirements for Ubuntu MATE:

• RAM: 1 GB
• CPU: Pentium M 1.0 GHz
• Disk Space: 9 GB
• Display Resolution: 1024 x 768

13. Zorin OS Lite

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution. It offers a lite edition for older computers that features the Xfce desktop environment.

If you have a decent system (not too old), you can also try the regular Zorin OS to see if it fits your purpose.

Minimum system requirements for Zorin OS Lite:

• RAM: 512 MB
• CPU: 700 MHz Single Core
• Disk Space: 8 GB
• Display: 640 × 480 resolution

12. Xubuntu

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Xubuntu is one of the official flavors of Ubuntu that features the lightweight Xfce desktop.

You will find it easy to use and can also install it on your older computers with no issues. Head to their official website to download the ISO (32-bit/64-bit) you need and get started.

Minimum system requirements for Xubuntu:

• RAM: 512 MB (1 GB recommended)
• Processor: Pentium Pro or AMD Athlon

11. Linux Mint Xfce

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

If you have a decent hardware configuration (refer to the minimum requirements below), Linux Mint Xfce edition will be a great option to have.

While being an Ubuntu-based distro, it also features the Xfce desktop which makes it good enough for some old computers. Considering that Linux Mint as one of the best Linux distros, you can also try other editions (like Cinnamon) available.

Minimum system requirements for Linux Mint Xfce:

• 1GB RAM (2GB recommended).
• 15GB of disk space (20GB recommended).
• 1024×768 resolution

10. Peppermint

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

Peppermint is a cloud-focused Linux distribution that doesn’t need high-end hardware. It is based on Ubuntu and uses LXDE desktop environment to give you a smoother experience.

Originally created with the web-centric approach of netbooks in mind, Peppermint includes the ICE application for integrating any website or web app as a standalone desktop app.

You’ll find the documentation helpful as well. A dedicated forum also exists to help troubleshooting issues and answering your questions.

Minimum system requirements for Peppermint OS:

• RAM: 1 GB of RAM (recommended 2 GB)
• CPU: Processor based on Intel x86 architecture
• Disk space: At least 4 GB of available disk space

You can get more information about Peppermint on its official website.

9. Lubuntu

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes (older versions)

Next on our list of best lightweight Linux distributions is Lubuntu. As the name suggests, a member of the Ubuntu family but it utilizes either LXDE/LXQT desktop environment. From Ubuntu 18.10 and above, you will find LXQT as the default desktop environment and could find LXDE as the default in its previous releases.

Lubuntu supports older computers that have been buried (Just kidding! You can also use Lubuntu on modern hardware). Lubuntu is one of the lightest derivatives of Ubuntu so it specializes in speed and the support for older hardware.

Lubuntu has fewer packages pre-installed consisting mostly of lightweight Linux applications.

Software and repositories are the same so you will get all the software that you were using on Ubuntu from their repositories. However, I’d suggest to always prefer to select an application that doesn’t consume a lot of system resources.

Minimum hardware requirements for Lubuntu:

• RAM: 1 GB of RAM
• CPU: Pentium 4 or Pentium M or AMD K8 or higher

8. Linux Lite

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes (older versions)

As the name suggests Linux Lite is a lightweight Linux distro that does not need high-end hardware to run it. Even a beginner will be able to use it on older computers easily. Linux Lite is based on Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support) releases.

Even though it’s a lightweight distro – it comes baked with some essential tools.

For instance, you may find Firefox for web browsing, Thunderbird for emails, Dropbox for Cloud storage, VLC Media Player for Music, LibreOffice for office, Gimp for image editing and Lite tweaks to tweak your desktop. (this can change depending what version you’re using).

Considering that it is based on Ubuntu, you’ll have plenty of support and resources available online as you can follow the Ubuntu tutorials.

Minimum hardware requirements for Linux Lite:

• RAM: 768 MB RAM (recommended 1 GB)
• CPU: 1Ghz processor
• Display: VGA screen 1024×768 resolution (recommended VGA, DVI or HDMI screen 1366×768)
• Disk space: At least 8 GB free disk space

7. LXLE

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

LXLE is actually a respin of the Lubuntu LTS version. Now that Lubuntu ships with LXQT by default, LXLE is a great option for users who want to use the LXDE desktop environment.

Despite being lightweight Linux distro, LXLE tries to provide an intuitive UI and eye candies. The system is tweaked to improve performance and comes with a wide range of lightweight applications installed by default.

Minimum hardware requirements for LXLE:

• RAM: 512 MB (recommended 1 GB)
• CPU: Pentium 3 (recommended Pentium 4)
• Disk space: 8 GB

6. CrunchBang++

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes (older versions)

CrunchBang++ is also known as CBPP or #!++ or CrunchBang Plus Plus. Crunchbang++ is the clone of Crunchbang Linux which has been discontinued.

CrunchBang++ supports old computers and runs without any issue. CrunchBang++ is based on Debian 10 with the minimal design interface.

Some of the default applications in Crunchbang++ at the time of writing this were Geany IDE, Terminator terminal emulator, Thunar File Manager, Gimp for image editing, Viewnior image viewer, VLC Media Player for music, Xfburn CD/DVD burning software, and so on.

It may not be the best one around for every user- but you can give it a try and see it yourself.

Minimum hardware requirements for CrunchBang++:

• RAM: 1 GB of RAM
• CPU: Pentium 4 or Pentium M or AMD K8 or higher

5. Bodhi Linux

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes (older versions)

Yet another light Linux distribution – Bodhi Linux, that gives life to older PCs & Laptops. Bodhi Linux is quite known for its minimal approach and the support for low-end hardware.

It doesn’t feature a lot of things pre-installed – hence, you will notice that the ISO file size will be less than 1 GB.

The presence of Moksh Desktop makes Bodhi Linux is a decent choice for older hardware configurations while providing a good user experience.

Minimum hardware requirements for Bodhi Linux:

• RAM: 256 MB of RAM
• CPU: 1.0 GHz
• Disk space: 5 GB of drive space

4. antiX Linux

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes

antiX is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Debian Linux. If you are looking for something that does not include systemd, this is a great option.

antiX also uses icewm window manager to keep the system running on low-end hardware. It doesn’t have much pre-installed software so the ISO file size is around 700 MB. You can always download and install more software later if you have access to an active internet connection.

Minimum hardware requirements for antiX Linux:

• RAM: 256 MB of RAM
• CPU: PIII systems
• Disk space: 5 GB of drive space

3. SparkyLinux

SparkyLinux is another lightweight distro but at the same time, it also targets modern computers.

Depending on what you need – you will find two variants of SparkyLinux. One based on Debian’s stable release and the other based on Debian’s testing branch. So, you can opt for anyone you see fit.

In addition to the variants, you will also find different editions of ISO to download. For instance, an LXQT desktop-based edition, a GameOver edition with pre-installed stuff, and so on.

You can head down to their download page and click on “Stable” or “(Semi-)Rolling” releases to find all the editions listed.

Minimum hardware requirements for SparkyLinux:

• RAM: 512 MB
• CPU: Pentium 4, or AMD Athlon
• Disk space: 2 GB (CLI Edition), 10 GB (Home Edition), 20 GB (GameOver Edition)

2. Puppy Linux

Support for 32-bit systems: Yes (older versions)

Puppy Linux can be booted live with either a CD/DVD/USB.

Puppy Linux uses JWM and Openbox window managers by default which makes it very easy on system resources.

Because Puppy Linux is built to be fast, it does not come along with bundles of applications. It does have some basic apps, though. In other words, it can get your work done if you want to utilize a really old computer.

Minimum hardware requirements for Puppy Linux:

• RAM: 256 MB
• CPU: 600 Hz Processor

1. Tiny Core

Probably, technically, the most lightweight distro there is. However, it isn’t a complete Linux distribution for an average desktop user.

Tiny Core simply incorporates the fundamental core of an OS which includes the kernel and the root filesystem. In other words, it features the foundation of a desktop OS.

If you simply want a system to boot up coupled with a wired Internet connection, you can get started using it. But, you should not expect proper hardware support out of the box.

So, if you’re someone who knows how to set up or compile tools necessary with Tiny Core Linux to make it a complete desktop experience, you can give it a try.

Minimum hardware requirements for Tiny Core Linux:

• RAM: 64 MB (128 MB recommended)
• CPU: i486DX

Also, if you’re curious about similar tiny/smallest Linux distros for your old hardware, here are some suggestions to take a look at:

Conclusion

Most of the Linux distros should be easy to install on older computers without any hassle. If you’re inclined for a good user experience, easy to use UI, and stability, there’s a lot of options in our list.

Don’t forget to tell me about your favorite Linux distributions in the comment below.

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