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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This is why I love linux (lemdro.id)

submitted 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

16 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I had a Chinese Android box gathering dust in a drawer. It had been sidelined because it was stuck on an outdated version of Android, with no updates in sight from the manufacturer. I started considering alternatives like a Raspberry Pi or a budget x86 mini PC to set up a PVR with TVheadend. But before placing an order, I wondered if I could repurpose the Android box as a Linux server. After all, it had decent specs: an Amlogic S905X2 chip, 4 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of internal storage.

A quick search revealed that it was possible to boot Linux on the box using a microSD card or USB stick. Within an hour, I had CoreELEC up and running. One of the great things about CoreELEC is the ease with which you can install Docker and TVheadend. This meant that my forgotten Android box was now transformed into a functional Linux server.

I hooked up a TV tuner (yes, I'm aware it's not exactly cutting-edge, but I need OTA TV for work) and installed TVheadend. It essentially turned the box into a budget-friendly HDHomeRun. I even set up AdGuard Home and configured my router to use it as a network-wide ad blocker.

Once you have Docker running, the possibilities are endless. To my surprise, I even discovered that you can boot Armbian on these inexpensive boxes and use them as a lightweight desktop. Or turn them into a router or pihole box using openwrt.

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[–] [email protected] 13 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago) (1 children)

You don't technically need docker though. It's just a convenience layer.

[–] [email protected] 4 points 3 weeks ago (1 children)

Coreelec doesn't have a package manager.

[–] [email protected] 8 points 3 weeks ago

You don't technically need a package manager though. It's just a convenience layer.