====== Operating System Selection =====

Choose the right Linux distribution for your hardware.

> //The operating system you choose affects ease of setup, performance, and long-term maintenance.//

===== Overview =====

Selecting the right operating system is crucial for a smooth hosting experience. Consider your hardware, Linux experience, and the services you plan to run.

===== For x86 Hardware =====

**Laptops, desktops, mini PCs:**

**Ubuntu Server**
  * Most documentation and tutorials available
  * Good for beginners
  * Regular releases with long-term support
  * Large package repository

**Debian**
  * Stable and minimal
  * Excellent for servers
  * Less frequent updates
  * Rock-solid reliability

**Fedora Server**
  * Cutting edge features
  * Latest software versions
  * Good for development
  * More frequent updates

**Arch Linux**
  * Rolling release
  * Requires more Linux knowledge
  * Minimal and customizable
  * Excellent documentation

===== For ARM Hardware =====

**Raspberry Pi and single-board computers:**

**Raspberry Pi OS**
  * Official for Raspberry Pi
  * Optimized for Pi hardware
  * Good documentation
  * Debian-based

**Ubuntu Server for ARM**
  * Familiar if you use Ubuntu elsewhere
  * Good community support
  * Regular updates

**Debian for ARM**
  * Stable and minimal
  * Excellent for servers
  * Long-term support

===== For Android Phones =====

**Termux-based solutions:**

**Termux + proot-distro**
  * Run Debian or Ubuntu inside Android
  * Full Linux environment
  * Most flexible option

**UserLAnd**
  * Alternative to Termux
  * GUI support available
  * Easier for beginners

===== Installation Tips =====

  * Download ISO from official distribution website
  * Create bootable USB using Rufus (Windows) or Etcher (macOS/Linux)
  * Choose minimal server installation to save resources
  * Create non-root user account during setup
  * Enable SSH during installation if available

===== Post-Installation Setup =====

  1. Update system: `sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade`
  2. Install SSH server: `sudo apt install openssh-server`
  3. Configure SSH key-based authentication
  4. Set up firewall: `sudo ufw enable`
  5. Configure automatic security updates

===== See Also =====

  * [[hosting:hardware:start|Hardware Overview]]
  * [[hosting:hardware:old_laptops|Old Laptops and Desktops]]
  * [[hosting:hardware:raspberry_pi|Raspberry Pi]]

Last updated: 2026-06-19
  * [[hosting:start|Return to hosting]]