Managing software packages is crucial to maintaining a clean and efficient system on your Raspberry Pi. In this article, we guide you through the various methods of uninstalling packages on Ubuntu, ensuring your system remains optimized and clutter-free.

From using the powerful terminal commands to leveraging the user-friendly graphical interface, we’ll cover all you need to know to confidently remove packages, prevent system bloat, and keep your Ubuntu experience smooth and enjoyable.

How to Uninstall Packages on Ubuntu Using the Terminal

This is the fastest and easiest way to uninstall packages when using Ubuntu as an operating system.

This section will show you a few ways to use the apt package manager to uninstall packages using the terminal.

You can open the terminal by pressing  CTRL + ALT + T.

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Using the apt Package Manager to Uninstall Packages

apt remove "PACKAGENAME"

As long as you know the name of the package that you want to uninstall, the apt package manager on Ubuntu makes this process very easy.

All you need to do is use “apt remove” followed by the package’s name, as shown in the command above.

It is worth noting, that the “remove” function could potentially leave config files behind. If you need these files removed as well, you will need to use the “purge” command instead.

If you wanted to uninstall the “wget” package from your system, you would use the following command:

apt remove wget

You can also uninstall multiple packages at once, by typing each package’s name. The following command will uninstall the “wget” and “curl” packages.

/cpde

apt remove wget curl

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Purging a Package from Ubuntu

apt purge "PACKAGENAME"

Remember that when using the “remove” command, files can be left behind when uninstalling a package on Ubuntu.

The “purge” command removes both the package and the associated files from the system.

Uninstalling Unused Packages from your System

apt autoremove

Using the “autoremove“ command, you can clean up your ubuntu system by uninstalling unused packages.

It does this by looking for packages that belong to applications, or programs that are no longer installed.

Uninstalling Snap Packages

snap remove "PACKAGENAME"

Occasionally you will come acrosss a package that isn’t able to be removed using the apt package manager.

If this happens it could be that the package was installed using snap, and you will need to use snap to remove

Using the Desktop Interface to Uninstall Packages

If you prefer the graphical interface of Ubuntu, there’s a convenient tool available for uninstalling packages. However, it’s important to note that this method is limited to removing packages installed via the Ubuntu Software Center.

Guide to Uninstalling packages using the Ubuntu Software Application.

Access the Activities Screen: Start by navigating to the activities screen. You can open this screen by clicking on the top or bottom left corner of your desktop.

Search for Ubuntu Software: Once in the activities screen, locate the search box at the top (1.) and enter “Ubuntu Software”. When “Ubuntu Software” appears in the search results (2.), click on it to launch the application.

Navigate to the ‘Installed’ Tab: In the Ubuntu Software application, switch to the “Installed” tab. This can be done by clicking on “Installed” in the navigation bar at the top of the application.

Uninstall Applications: In the “Installed” tab, you’ll see a list of all applications and utilities installed on your Ubuntu system through the Ubuntu Software Center. To remove any of these applications, simply click the “Uninstall” button associated with the specific application you wish to remove.

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Conclusion

By now you should have a solid understanding of the various ways that you can uninstall packages on Ubuntu.

The apt package manager is the simplest way to remove packages from your system, but you can also you the Ubuntu Software application to uninstall apps. This method can only be used to remove programs that were installed using the Ubuntu Software application.

Understanding how to restart Ubuntu is an important skill for those using this operating system. There are times when restarting Ubuntu is necessary for it to work correctly.

For example, if you change the system’s swap size, you need to restart your computer to make these changes work. Also, after updating the kernel, which is a core part of the operating system, you need to restart to start using the new version.

In the next parts of this guide, we will look at three different ways to restart your Ubuntu system easily. If you are using Ubuntu on a desktop computer, you can use these methods through the terminal, which you can open by pressing CTRL + ALT + T.

Restarting Ubuntu using the Reboot Command

The simplest way to restart Ubuntu within the terminal is by using the reboot command. This command is very simple to remember and doesn’t require any extra arguments to execute a restart.

As this command is a core part of Linux, it should work on any Linux-based system.

reboot

Since you need super user privileges to restart Ubuntu, you may be required to include “sudo” in front of the command.

sudo reboot

Should your Ubuntu device fail to restart following the execution of the reboot command, there is an option to force a restart. It’s important to note, though, that forcing a reboot carries the risk of data loss, so it should be used with caution.

You can force a restart on Ubuntu by using the following command within the terminal.

sudo reboot --force

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Using the shutdown Command to Restart Ubuntu

Even though its name is “shutdown”, you can also use this command to restart the Ubuntu operating system. While it isn’t as completely straightforward to use as “reboot”, it is still very simple.

One of the key differences this command has over reboot is that you can schedule when a restart will occur.

The easiest way to utilize this command is to use “shutdown” followed by the “-r” or "--reboot” arguments. When using the command, your device will be rebooted 1 minute from when you ran the command.

sudo shutdown -r

Or, if you wanted to specify how many minutes should pass before your Ubuntu device is restarted, you could use the following.

Just ensure that you replace “MINUTES” with the number of minutes you want to be passed before the reboot occurs.

sudo shutdown -r +MINUTES

As an example, you would use the following command to restart Ubuntu in 30 minutes.

sudo shutdown -r +30

Just like using the reboot command, you can restart Ubuntu immediately by writing “now” in the place where you would specify the time.

sudoshutdown -r now

It is possible to cancel any pending restarts using the “-c” option alongside shutdown.

sudo shutdown -c

Using systemctl to Restart Ubuntu

Finally, it is also possible to use systemctl to restart your Ubuntu device. You may be familiar with this tool if you are using it to manage services running on Ubuntu.

To restart Ubuntu using systemctl, all you need to do is type the following into the terminal.

sudo systemctl reboot

When using this command, the restart will occur immediately. There will be no delay.

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Final Thoughts

This article has provided a detailed guide on how to restart your Ubuntu system using terminal commands. While the process is generally straightforward, it’s important to approach it with an understanding of the potential risks, such as data loss when forcing a reboot.

These commands are invaluable tools for managing and maintaining the health and performance of your Ubuntu system, ensuring that updates and changes are effectively applied.

Whether you’re a seasoned Ubuntu user or new to the operating system, mastering these restart techniques is essential for efficient system management.

The Raspberry Pi’s versatility extends beyond the official Raspberry Pi OS. While it’s the default choice, numerous other distributions cater to different models, objectives, and personal preferences. In this post, I’ve explored various alternatives and compiled a list of my top recommendations to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Here’s a quick guide to the best distribution for specific Raspberry Pi uses:

In this article, I’ll dive into 15 standout distributions that are worth considering if you’re on the hunt for the ideal operating system. Additionally, it’s worth noting that most of these distributions can be installed on an external SSD drive.

If you’re new to Raspberry Pi and need assistance getting started, this site offers a comprehensive set of articles that will guide you through your Raspberry Pi journey. From selecting the right hardware to installing your first system and completing your initial projects.

Make sure you take the time to look around.

The Best Operating Systems For Raspberry Pi

1 – Raspberry Pi OS

Raspberry Pi OS, the official distribution for the Raspberry Pi, is built on the Debian framework, emphasizing stability and performance.

With significant enhancements since its 2012 debut, it now features the PIXEL desktop environment (based on LXDE), transforming the Raspberry Pi into a daily-use desktop computer. Pre-installed applications include Chromium, Minecraft Pi (legacy version only), Scratch, and LibreOffice. The APT Packet Manager simplifies the installation of additional packages or alternative desktop environments.

If you’re familiar with Debian or Ubuntu, the process will be straightforward. Additionally, you can opt to install Debian directly on your Raspberry Pi for a different experience. Raspberry Pi OS stands out for its compatibility, reliability, and suitability for beginner projects, performing well across all Raspberry Pi models.

You can download Raspberry Pi OS from the official website, and the 64-bit version of Raspberry Pi OS is now available, potentially offering a significant performance boost.

2 – Ubuntu

Ubuntu has quickly risen to become the world’s most popular Linux distribution, thanks to its shorter development cycle based on Debian, which delivers the latest updates much sooner. If you’re accustomed to Ubuntu and seeking an alternative to Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi is an excellent choice.

Despite limited support from developers and the Raspberry Pi community, its widespread use in the PC world makes it an intriguing option for deeper exploration. Ubuntu offers a more modern interface with core packages similar to those in Raspberry Pi OS, such as LibreOffice, Minecraft PI, and Scratch, with Firefox as the default browser.

Additional packages can be installed using the apt command. Ubuntu’s appeal lies in its more attractive and up-to-date work environment compared to Raspberry Pi OS, though it may sacrifice some stability and community support on the Raspberry Pi.

To download Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi, visit this page. The server version is available for download, but you can easily install your preferred desktop environment using the commands provided at the end of the page. A Raspberry Pi 4 is recommended for the best desktop experience.

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3 – Batocera

Batocera Linux is a popular retro gaming operating system designed to transform your Raspberry Pi into a comprehensive emulation console. It is inspired by Recalbox and builds upon its foundation, incorporating all the good features while adding enhanced performance and additional functionalities such as a built-in content downloader.

The distribution is user-friendly and provides an easy setup process, allowing you to start playing your favorite classic games from systems like NES, SNES, Atari, and more, with minimal effort. To get started, you simply need to download ROMs from the internet and transfer them to your Raspberry Pi, where they will automatically appear in the Batocera menu.

For an authentic gaming experience, you can connect a controller, such as an SNES-style gamepad, and relive the nostalgia of playing games from your childhood. Batocera’s interface is designed to be intuitive, making it easy to navigate through your game library and settings.

4 – Manjaro

Manjaro, a recent discovery for me on the Raspberry Pi, is an Arch Linux-based distribution that aims to be fast and user-friendly. It’s a departure from the more common systems on the Raspberry Pi, offering a chance to explore and learn something new.

Manjaro comes in various flavors with popular desktop environments like XFCE, GNOME, KDE, Cinnamon, LXDE, and Mate. Alternatively, you can start with the Architect version, a minimal setup that lets you install only what you need and configure everything yourself.

Manjaro is compatible with the Raspberry Pi 4, and I recommend using this model for the best graphical experience. You can download system images from the official website. If you’re a fan of Arch Linux, EndeavourOS is another option to consider, though it hasn’t yet earned a spot on this list.

5 – LibreELEC

LibreELEC may appear similar to other distributions running Kodi at first glance, but it’s a unique beast, built from the ground up to run Kodi and only Kodi.

As a fork of OpenELEC, LibreELEC aims to provide the lightest possible distribution for optimal Kodi performance. Like OSMC, it supports universal remote controls (such as the popular Harmony remote from Amazon) with a simple USB adapter.

LibreELEC is not based on Raspberry Pi OS or any other operating system; it’s a distinct entity that was born in 2016 as the OpenELEC project started to decline.

6 – Retropie

Retropie transforms your Raspberry Pi into a retro-gaming console, enabling you to play classic games from various platforms. Built on Raspberry Pi OS, it offers a straightforward setup and user-friendly interface.

Before playing, you need to download ROMs from the internet (find my top website recommendations here) and upload them to your Raspberry Pi, where they’ll automatically appear in the Retropie menu. You can enhance your gaming experience by adding a controller like the SNES, reliving childhood memories.

Retropie is included in this list for its popularity and ability to introduce many players to the Raspberry Pi, contributing to its fame.

Download pre-made images for the Raspberry Pi here, or opt for a pre-installed SD card with thousands of games on Amazon, offering a cost-effective solution that saves you hours of game hunting.

7 – DietPi

DietPi is my preferred minimal distribution for the Raspberry Pi, closely resembling Raspberry Pi OS Lite but with an easier setup and fewer pre-installed packages. It’s ideal for those seeking better performance or wanting to install only what they need.

Created around 2015, DietPi boasts an image size under 1GB (compared to Raspberry Pi OS Lite’s 1.8GB) and comes with half the packages installed by default. A setup wizard assists you in configuring your system upon first boot.

Download the system from the official website. DietPi is compatible with the Raspberry Pi 4 and serves as an excellent OS for small servers, like file or VPN servers at home.

8 – Kano OS

Kano OS is a kid-friendly distribution designed to teach children how computers work. Kano, the manufacturer, offers computer kits for schools and kids, which include hardware components and a free open-source operating system for the Raspberry Pi.

After installing Kano OS, a fun wizard helps users create an account, turning them into characters in an adventure. The Story Mode introduces various features, and the menu offers common apps like Minecraft, YouTube, and a web browser, along with kid-friendly projects.

Children can start exploring the Raspberry Pi at a surprisingly young age, with many suitable projects available (see my blog post for some of the best options). The Kano website provides numerous resources to get started with this distribution. Download the latest images from this page.

If you’re interested in Kano’s kits, they’re available on Amazon, including the Kano computer kit, which contains everything needed to build a computer (Pi 3, case, wireless keyboard, etc.). Once assembled, it becomes an excellent educational toy for kids aged 6 and up.

Note: Kano seems to be moving away from Raspberry Pi with their latest products, so while you can still try Kano OS, updates may no longer be available.

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9 – Gentoo

Gentoo is a lightweight, customizable distribution that allows you to install only the packages you need. With the discontinuation of Arch Linux support for Raspberry Pi development, Gentoo could become a new standard for project flexibility (alongside Manjaro).

Established in 2000, Gentoo has come a long way, making package installation easier with tools like Emerge and Portage. Unlike other distributions where packages are pre-compiled, Gentoo compiles packages locally on your computer, optimizing them specifically for your system.

10 – RecalBox

RecalBox is another excellent option for retro gaming on the Raspberry Pi, supporting games from platforms like NES, SNES, and Atari. Unlike Retropie and Lakka, RecalBox integrates everything into its interface, eliminating the need for additional configuration tools like Raspi-config or the Retropie setup script.

Currently, Raspberry Pi 4 is not supported, so if you’re looking to play on that model, Lakka might be a better choice. The ROMs compatible with RecalBox are the same as those for Retropie, so you can follow the same tips to find ROMs online easily.

Download the RecalBox image directly from the official website.

11 – Kali Linux

Kali Linux is a highly regarded distribution in the cybersecurity world, renowned for its comprehensive suite of penetration testing and security auditing tools. It is specifically designed for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of information security, offering an extensive array of utilities for tasks such as wireless attacks, password cracking, forensics, web application testing, network sniffing, and vulnerability scanning, among many others.

Developed and maintained by Offensive Security, Kali Linux has evolved from its predecessor, BackTrack, to become a standard in the security industry. The distribution is known for its robustness and adherence to the needs of security professionals, with a vast repository of pre-installed tools that are regularly updated to address the latest security challenges.

Kali Linux is not only limited to professional use but also serves as an excellent platform for learning and honing cybersecurity skills. It is fully supported on the Raspberry Pi, making it accessible for a wide range of users who wish to explore the world of ethical hacking and security testing on a compact and affordable device. With its strong focus on security and a comprehensive toolset, Kali Linux remains a go-to choice for anyone looking to dive into the intricacies of cybersecurity.

12 – OSMC

Open Source Media Center (OSMC) is a versatile and user-friendly media center platform designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi and other devices. Based on Debian Linux and utilizing Kodi as its front-end interface, OSMC provides a seamless experience for organizing and playing a wide range of media content, including movies, TV shows, music, and photos.

OSMC is renowned for its simplicity and ease of installation, making it an ideal choice for users looking to set up a home media center without the need for extensive technical knowledge. The system supports most media formats and can stream content from various sources, ensuring compatibility with a broad array of media libraries and online services.

The Kodi interface, which powers OSMC, offers an attractive and intuitive user experience, with features such as automatic library updates, customizable skins, and a vast selection of add-ons for extending functionality. Additionally, OSMC is designed to be lightweight and efficient, ensuring smooth playback and a responsive interface, even on the modest hardware of the Raspberry Pi.

13 – Fedora

Fedora, a popular Linux distribution with around 1.5 million users, is based on RedHat and has been available for Raspberry Pi in stable releases for some time now.

If you’re new to Fedora, you’ll find it similar to other distributions like Debian or Ubuntu, with a few notable differences in commands, package managers, and file locations. Fedora is officially supported on Raspberry Pi, with ARM/AARCH64 versions included in the latest releases.

You might also consider trying OpenSUSE or Rocky Linux as alternatives, both of which are derived from Red Hat.

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14 – OpenMediaVault

OpenMediaVault is an excellent choice for creating a low-cost network drive. Based on Debian, it provides a NAS solution with essential services like SMB, SSH, FTP, and NFS.

It’s easy to install and ideal for home or small office use. You can expand storage capacity by adding a larger SD card or an external hard drive. OpenMediaVault also supports various plugins to enhance functionality, such as building a web server with Nginx and MySQL. The distribution is known for its reliability and ease of use, making it a great option for beginners looking to set up a server.

The latest system images are compatible with Raspberry Pi 4 and can be downloaded from Sourceforge.

15 – Pop!_OS

Pop!_OS is a relatively new distribution in the Linux world, based on Ubuntu and using GNOME as the desktop environment. It has gained attention for its performance on PCs and is now available for Raspberry Pi.

Pop!_OS offers a modern-looking desktop with several optimizations that may make it even more appealing than Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi users. The distribution is best experienced on a Raspberry Pi 4 or 400 with sufficient RAM.

You can expect a smooth desktop experience with features like a dock, launcher, and app store.

Final Thoughts On The Best Raspberry Pi Operating Systems

From the official Raspberry Pi OS for general use and education, to specialized distributions like Batocera Linux for retro gaming, Kali Linux for cybersecurity, and OSMC for media center applications, there’s an operating system to suit almost every need.

Each of these distributions offers a unique set of features and capabilities, making the Raspberry Pi an even more adaptable and powerful tool. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, exploring these operating systems can enhance your Raspberry Pi experience and open up new possibilities for your projects and applications.

You can use the find tool to search for files and directories within your system using a specified expression.

You can even search for files based on their specified properties. For example, you can search for a file based on the permissions that have been set to it, or the owner, or file size.

Even more interesting, you can use find on Linux to execute actions on every file that your expression matches against.

This guide will walk you through some of the various ways to use the find tool on your Linux system.

Finding Files in Linux Using the Find Command

The find command is an essential tool in any Linux user’s arsenal, allowing for efficient file searching based on various criteria. This article will guide you through its syntax and usage, providing examples to help you master file searching in Linux.

Syntax of the Find Command

The basic syntax of the find command is:

find [path] [options] [expression]

• [path] specifies the directory to search.
• [options] are global options that affect the overall operation.
• [expression] defines what to search for and what to do with the results.

The syntax for the find tool is quite simple, the most important things to focus on are the path and the expression. The expression is how you control what the tool funds in the directory.

It is important to note, the order of your expression does matter. If you wanted to execute a command, it should be at the end of the expression to ensure a match event occurs.

Basic Usage of Find on Linux

The simplest and most basic way to use the find tool is to specify only the directory that you want it to search through.

find "directory"

When using this command, replace "directory" with the directory you want to search.

When using this command, the tool will list every file and object in the directory. There are not many times you will want to do this, and there are better commands to use that we will get in to.

Example of Using Find on a Directory

To search a directory located at "/home/raspians/example/", we would use the following command:

find /home/raspians/example/

This will give you a complete list of all the files and folders in this directory.

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Filtering the File Type with Find

  find "directory" -type "filetype"

Using this command, you can filter the type of file that will be returned. To search only for files or directories, use the "-type" option, and a letter that is used to designate the file type.

This list gives you the file types you can specify, and the letter that represents that file type. The types you are most likely to use are “r” Regular Files and “d” Directories.

• d – Directory
• f – Regular File
• p – Named Pipe
• l – Symbolic Link
• c – Character
• b – Block
• s – Socket
• D – Door

Only Searching for Files

As an example, we will use the -type option to list the files (f) in our directory.

  find /path/to/directory -type f

This will return all the files inside your chosen directory.

Searching for Directories

 This time we will use the same command as our last example, but we will search for directories instead of searching for files.

This means that we will be using the letter “d“, instead of using the “f”  letter alongside the “-type” option.

  find /path/to/directory -type d

Now you will see all the directories instead of the individual files.

Finding Files on Linux by Name

This is the most common way that you will use the find tool. To search for files by name using the the find tool, you need to use the the “-name” option alongside the "find" command.

Using the “-name” option will perform a case-sensitive search, to perform a non case-sensitive seach you would use the “-iname” option.

• Performing a Case Sensitive Search

  find /path/to/directory -iname filename

• Performing a Case Insensitive Search

  find /path/to/directory -iname filename

Using a Wildcard to Perform a Search

The find tool on Linux lets you to use wildcards (*) within the filename. This comes in handy when you want to find files by their file extension.

In this example, we will find all the files within our example that are a “.txt“. To do this search, we will use the asterisk (*) followed by “.txt“.

  find /path/to/directory -type f -name *.txt

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Using Find to Search by Size

The find command in Linux also allows you to locate files based on their size using the -size option. This option is straightforward to use and can be combined with other options for more precise searches.

To search for files of a specific size, use the following syntax:

find DIRECTORY -size FILESIZE

The -size option supports various suffixes to specify the size unit, eliminating the need to provide the size in bytes only:

• b – 512-byte blocks (default if no suffix is specified)
• c – Bytes
• w – Two-byte blocks
• k – Kilobytes
• M – Megabytes
• G – Gigabytes

To search for files larger or smaller than a specified size, prepend the size value with a plus sign (+) for greater than or a minus sign (-) for less than:

find DIRECTORY -size +10M

– Finds files larger than 10 megabytes.

find DIRECTORY -size -10M

– Finds files smaller than 10 megabytes.

Finding FIles in a Size Range

You can combine multiple size parameters to search for files within a specific size range.

For instance, to locate all files between 12 Megabytes and 22 Megabytes, you would use two size options:

• The first option represents the minimum size. In our case, this would be +12M.
• The second option indicates the maximum size. For our example, this would be -22M.

The command would look like this:

find DIRECTORY -size +12M -size -22M

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Finding Files by their Modification, Access, or Change Time

The find command in Linux offers the capability to search for files based on their last modified, accessed, or changed times.

In Linux, each file has three different timestamps that record the last time an operation was performed on the file. The options to check for these operations are as follows:

• -atime: This option allows you to find files based on their last access time. A file is considered accessed whenever its contents are read.
• -mtime: Use this option to search for files based on when they were last modified. Linux considers files modified when their contents have been changed.
• -ctime: This option helps you find files based on when the file’s attributes were modified. The change time should not be confused with the modification time. A file is considered changed when its metadata, such as permissions, have been modified.

The basic syntax for these options is as follows, where the value represents the exact number of days since the file was modified, changed, or accessed:

find DIRECTORY -mtime DAYSSINCEMODIFIED

These options also support the less than (-) and greater than (+) operators.

Finding Files Modified on a Specific Day

To search for files based on their modification date, simply specify the exact number of days since the modification occurred.

For instance, to find a file modified exactly 7 days ago, use the -mtime option with the number 7:

find /home/raspians/example -mtime 7

This command will scan the specified directory for any file with a modification date of 7 days ago.

Identifying Files Modified After a Certain Date

To locate files modified after a specific number of days, prepend the number of days with a plus sign (+). For example, to find files modified more than five days ago, use +5:

find /home/raspians/example -mtime +5

This will search for all files in the specified directory that have been modified later than five days ago.

Locating Files Modified Before a Certain Date

Similarly, to find files modified before a certain number of days, use the minus sign (-). For instance, to find files modified within the last 4 days, use -4:

find /home/raspians/example -mtime -4

Searching for Files Modified Within a Date Range

The find command allows you to combine options to search for files modified within a specific date range. For example, to find files modified between 12 and 30 days ago, use both -mtime +12 and -mtime -30:

find /home/raspians/example -mtime +12 -mtime -30

This command will locate files that were modified later than 12 days ago but before 30 days ago.

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Search for Files by Owner

The find command allows you to locate files on your Linux system based on their ownership.

To find files owned by a specific user, use the -user option followed by the username:

find DIRECTORYNAME -user USERNAME

Similarly, to find files owned by a specific group, use the -group option followed by the group name:

find DIRECTORYNAME -group GROUPNAME

Search for Files with Specific Permissions

You can also use the find command to search for files with certain permissions.

This can be particularly useful for security purposes, such as ensuring that no files or folders have been set to overly permissive settings like 777.

To search for files with specific permissions, use the -perm option followed by the numerical permission value:

find DIRECTORY -perm NUMERICALPERMISSION

For more detailed control, you can prefix the permission value with one of two operators:

• The forward slash (/) indicates that any of the specified permission bits must be set for a file to match:

  find DIRECTORY -perm /NUMERICALPERMISSION

• The minus symbol (-) indicates that at least the specified permission bits must be set:

  find DIRECTORY -perm -NUMERICALPERMISSION

For example, searching with -perm -111 will match files where all permission groups have the execute permission.

Executing Commands on Found Files

One of the most powerful capabilities of the find command is the ability to execute a command on each file it finds.

To do this, use the -exec option followed by the command you wish to execute, the placeholder for the results, and the delimiter:

find DIRECTORY -exec COMMAND {} DELIMITER

Results Placeholder

To include the full pathname of each found file in the command you’re executing, use curly brackets ({}). The find command will replace these brackets with the pathname of each file found. You can use this placeholder multiple times within a single command.

For instance, to change the permissions of all files in a directory to 644, you can use the following command:

find /home/raspians-type f -exec chmod 644 {} \;

In this example, the curly brackets are replaced with the pathname of each file found.

Delimiters

The -exec option in the find command requires a delimiter to indicate the end of the command and how to process the results.

There are two types of delimiters you can use, each with its own use case:

The Semicolon Delimiter

The semicolon (;) is used to execute the command for each file found separately. It must be escaped with a backslash (\) to prevent the shell from interpreting it as a command delimiter.

For example, to echo the pathname of every file found, use the following command:

find /home/raspians/example -type f -exec echo {} \;

This command executes the echo command for each file individually, displaying the pathname of each file.

The Plus Sign Delimiter

The plus sign (+) is an alternative delimiter that tells the find command to concatenate all the results before executing the command. This means the command is executed only once, with a list of all found files separated by spaces.

For example, to echo the pathnames of all found files in one go, use the plus sign delimiter:

find /home/raspians/example -type f -exec echo {} +

This command differs from the semicolon delimiter in that it combines all the results into a single execution of the echo command.

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Conclusion

The find command is a powerful tool for searching files in Linux based on various criteria. By mastering its syntax and options, you can efficiently locate files and directories, filter by type, size, and modification time, and even execute commands on the found files.

With practice, you’ll find that find becomes an indispensable part of your Linux toolkit.

If you prefer a video explainer, Learn Linux TV has put together a great resourc that I’ve shared below.

Are you running out of disk space on Raspberry Pi that is running Ubuntu OS? Maybe you’re getting warning messages that your root partition is almost full, and you’re not sure what to do about it. 

Well, don’t worry, because in this post we’re going to tackle the topic of how to resize and expand Ubuntu partitions on your Raspberry Pi. With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to increase your storage capacity and keep your Pi running smoothly.

Let’s dive in. 

Before You Start Expanding Ubuntu partitions 

Before we discuss how to resize and expand Ubuntu partitions, there are a few things you need to have in order. Here are the prerequisites to make sure you have before diving in:

• A backup of your important data
  
  First things first, make sure you have a backup of your important data. Seriously, don’t skip this step. There’s always a chance that something could go wrong when you’re working with partitioning or disk management, and you don’t want to lose your precious files.
  
• Enough free space
  
  You need to have some free space on your hard drive to expand the partitions. If you don’t have any free space available, you’ll need to delete some unnecessary files or move them to an external storage device.
  
• Gparted:
  
  This is a powerful yet user-friendly partition editor that you’ll use to resize and expand Ubuntu partitions. Gparted is typically included with most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu. If it’s not installed on your system, you can easily install it using the command line or the Ubuntu Software Center.
  
• Time
  
  Expanding partitions can take some time, especially if you’re working with a large hard drive. Be prepared to dedicate enough time to the process and don’t rush through the steps – even if you’re in a hurry!

How To Resize And Expand Ubuntu Partitions Using Gparted (GUI)

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to dive into the process of resizing and expanding Ubuntu partitions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Launch Gparted
   
   Open up Gparted, either from the command line or by searching for it in your application menu. Make sure you have administrative privileges so that you can make changes to your partitions and unmount them if needed.
   

2. Identify the partition you want to expand
   
   Look for the partition you want to expand in the list of partitions. It should be labeled with the file system type and the amount of space it currently occupies.

3. Shrink the neighboring partition (if necessary)
   
   If the partition you’d like to expand is surrounded by other partitions, you’ll need to shrink the neighboring partition(s) to make room. Right-click on the partition and select “Resize/Move”. Then, drag the slider to shrink the partition and create some unallocated space.
   
4. Expand the partition
   
   Now it’s time to expand the partition you want to enlarge. Right-click on the partition and select “Resize/Move”. Drag the slider to the right to increase the partition size and take advantage of the unallocated space.

RELATED: How To Partition A USB Drive

5. Apply the changes
   
   Once you’re happy with the partition sizes, click the “Apply” button in the toolbar. Gparted will show you a summary of the changes you’re about to make. If everything looks good, click “Apply” again to confirm the changes.
   
   
6. Wait for the changes to take effect
   
   The partition resizing process can take a while, depending on the speed of your hard drive and the amount of data you have stored on it. Don’t panic if it takes a while – just sit back, relax, and let Gparted do its thing.
   
   
7. Reboot
   
   Once the changes have been applied, you’ll need to reboot your computer for the changes to take effect. Don’t forget to save any open files and close any running programs before you reboot.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully resized and expanded your Ubuntu partitions. Now you can enjoy more space on your hard drive and an optimized Ubuntu experience.

Optional: Ubuntu Expand Root Partition

Expanding the Ubuntu system partition is a bit trickier than expanding a regular data partition, but it’s still doable with the right tools and knowledge. 

This is mainly because if you want to resize a partition, you need to unmount it first. However, the system partition can’t be unmounted, which is why you may need to boot on a Live-USB key. 

Here’s how to expand Ubuntu server partition:

1. Download Ubuntu from the official website.
   
2. Flash it on a USB key using a tool like Etcher or Rufus.

3. Insert the USB key into your computer, and boot on it by pressing F12 or DEL (depending on your computer) to access the boot menu.
   
4. Choose the live boot option (remember, we’re not looking to reinstall Ubuntu).
   
5. Once you’re in the Live-USB environment, you can follow the same steps as if your partition is no longer hosting your system.

Top Tip: It’s important to note that this process is only required if you want to extend the system partition. In other cases, you can resize the partition directly from your Ubuntu session (as discussed previously).

How To Resize And Expand Ubuntu Partitions Using Command Line

If you’re comfortable with using the Terminal, you can also resize and expand Ubuntu partitions using Command Line. 

Here’s how:

1. Ensure that the partition isn’t mounted
   
   Type the following command and adjust the parameter to fit your partition name:
   
   This will unmount the partition so you can safely modify it.
   
2. Open fdisk to make changes to the partition table
   
   
   This will open the fdisk utility, which lets you manage partitions on your disk.
   
3. Delete the corresponding partition
   
   
   Type the corresponding number (in this example, it’s “1”). If you have multiple partitions, adjust the number accordingly. Remember, this won’t format your disk’s content, it’ll just delete the partition so you can create a new one.
   
4. Create a new partition:
   
   Follow the prompts to create a new partition. You can either keep the default size or set the new partition size by using something like “+12GB” for the sector.

5. Check that the new partition table is correct
   
   
   This will display the new partition table. Make sure it’s what you wanted.
   
6. Write the changes to your hard disk
   
   
   This will save the changes you made to the partition table.
   
7. Resize the file system to fit the new partition size
   
   
   This command will resize the file system to fit the new partition size.
   
8. Mount your partition
   
   
   You have now mounted your partition and can start using it with the new size.
   

And with that, you’ve successfully finished the process to expand Ubuntu partitions from the Terminal.

Key Takeaways

After going through my guide, you should now be able to resize and expand Ubuntu partitions to accommodate your growing data needs. 

Here are some important highlights to remember:

• Before attempting to expand your partitions, it’s essential to back up your data, so you don’t lose anything in case something goes wrong.
  
• When expanding system partitions, it’s recommended to boot into a Live-USB key to safely unmount the partition.
  
• To expand your Ubuntu partitions, you can use either the graphical method or the command line method.
  
• When using the graphical method, you can use tools such as Gparted to resize and expand Ubuntu partitions.
  
• If you choose to use the command line method, you need to boot into a live USB key and use tools such as “fdisk” and “resize2fs” to resize and expand your partitions.
  
• It’s essential to ensure that the partition you’re resizing is not mounted to prevent data corruption or loss.
  
• Finally, always make sure to double-check your work and ensure that everything is working correctly before closing the terminal or shutting down your computer.
  

As someone who has experienced data loss due to a failed partition expansion attempt, I cannot stress enough the importance of backing up your data before attempting any changes. 

It’s also crucial to follow the steps carefully, especially when using the command line method, to prevent any irreversible damage to your system. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

If you would like to see a video walkthrough on expanding Ubunti partitions, be sure to check out this clip from SavvyNik.

One of the more appealing aspects of the Orange Pi is its ability to run Raspbian, the official operating system of the Raspberry Pi. This compatibility means that you have access to a vast array of software and tutorials that have been developed for the Raspberry Pi community.

Raspbian is a lightweight and flexible operating system that can easily be customized to suit your needs. Whether you’re using the Orange Pi for gaming, as a media server, or for any other purpose, Raspbian provides a solid foundation that you can build on.

So if you’re looking for a versatile and capable single-board computer, then the Orange Pi hardware and Raspbian software combination might be just what you’re looking for.

What Is The Orange Pi?

Orange Pi is an open-source mini-computer that is built to operate in largely the same way as the Raspberry Pi (and other powerful options), but with a few key differences.

One of the notable differences is the fact that the Orange Pi is designed to operate using just about any operating system you could choose from. Besides Raspbian, the Orange Pi can run a host of other operating systems, including Debian, Android, and Ubuntu.

This versatility makes the Orange Pi a great option for developers and hobbyists who want to experiment with different software and configurations.

There are a few other things about the Orange Pi that sets it apart including; that it comes with a powerful 2.4GHz 8-core 64-bit processor and can be specified with up to 32GB of RAM. That is a huge step up from most of its competitors.

The Raspberry Pi 4 for example, sports a quad-core 1.5GHz processor and is maxed out at 8GB of RAM.

The Step By Step Guide To Run Raspbian On An Orange Pi

Rasbian, the ever-popular Linux-based operating system, is a great choice for the Orange Pi due to its stability, low system requirements, large community base for support, and user-friendly interface.

In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of installing Rasbian on your Orange Pi.

Step 1 – Download The Raspbian OS

The first step towards getting Raspbian OS running on your Orange Pi is to download the necessary files containing the operating system.

We recommend downloading the version available on the Raspberry Pi website because it is best optimized for use within the Orange Pi architecture, and it is also the safest and most up-to-date version of the operating system. 

Step 2 – Move The Raspbian OS To Your Micro SD Card

Now that you have the appropriate imager that activates Raspbian OS, it is time to move this image over to the Raspberry Pi. To do this, you will need a Micro SD card and the Win32Disk Imager.

The Win32Disk Imager is a program that is designed to convert operating system images into programs that different computers can run. Putting the operating system through this imager will allow Raspbian OS to work on the Orange Pi computer when you plug it in. 

The process is simple enough, and you can simply let your computer get to work while it writes your image over to your Micro SD Card.

Step 3 – Run Raspbian OS On Your Orange Pi!

Now that you have added the Raspbian OS image to the Micro SD Card, simply hook it up directly to your Orange Pi, in the correct input slot, and boot the system up.

This will cause the Raspbian OS to kick in, allowing you to access the Orange Pi as if it were a Raspberry Pi.

To Wrap Up

There we have it. Operating the Orange Pi via the Raspbian OS can easily be done, and is also easily the best option preferred by many Orange Pi users thanks to its customizability and security. 

Make sure to follow our guide above closely to ensure that you get it all up and running safely!  If you’re wanting to know more about operating systems, or alternatives to the Raspberry Pi, be sure to check out our other articles.

TechHut has put together a handy video that outlines everything you need to know about the Orange Pi. Check it out below, and as always, don’t forget to have a look at the FAQs just after the video.

Frequently Asked Questions

As such, these small computers are incredibly popular amongst people looking for a simple computer that they can take with them on the go.

As well as this, Raspberry Pi computers are highly customizable and are great for learning programming thanks to the level of control that they offer to users. 

However, one hurdle that many people encounter while getting to grips with the Raspberry Pi is its reliance on the Debian infrastructure that allows the Raspberry Pi OS to operate.

Most people are used to using Windows infrastructure with a computer.

But is it possible to get an operating system, such as Windows 10, running on a Raspberry Pi 400 computer? What sorts of hurdles would you have to tackle, and how do you get it to run well? 

Read on – we’ve got you covered! 

Can A Raspberry Pi 400 Run Windows 10?

Technically speaking, no, a standard Raspberry Pi 400 computer could not possibly run Windows 10. The reason for this is simply that Raspberry Pi 400 is made to work using the Debian-based infrastructure. 

The Debian infrastructure is thus totally incompatible when used in tandem with Windows 10. 

However, there are ways that you can get Windows 10, and even Windows 11 running on a Raspberry Pi 400, and it involves a little bit of downloading.

In order to get Windows 10 or 11 running on your Raspberry Pi 400, you would need to download and install the WoR-flasher, which will help to host Windows on this Debian-based device.

How Do You Install Windows 10 On A Raspberry Pi 400?

In order to get Windows 10 running on your Raspberry Pi 400, you will need a few things. 

Make sure that you have a computer that uses the Debian infrastructure to download the WoR-flasher. Of course, you will also want to make sure that you have access to your Raspberry Pi 400 unit. 

You will also want a USB flash drive and a MicroSD card to install the program onto the Raspberry Pi itself. 

Step 1 – Install The WoR-Flasher To The Raspberry Pi 400

On your computer, open up a terminal window and enter the command:

‘Git clone https://github.com/Botspot/wor-flasher’

This will cause the necessary packages needed to run WR-Flasher to be downloaded. Ensure that the flasher is installed onto your Micro SD card.

Once the Flasher has been installed, you can then run the script for the flasher, by entering the following command:

‘~/wor – flasher/install – wor – gui.sh’

This will cause the flasher to start running, which will allow you to start setting up the Raspberry Pi version of Windows 10 or 11. 

Step 2 – Select Your Version Of Windows

You should now be seeing a small options box on your screen.

On this options box, you will be able to choose the specific version of Windows that you are looking to download, and which specific Raspberry Pi model you will be installing it on.

Make sure to pick the correct version of Windows you want, and then pick the appropriate Raspberry Pi model.

Once you have done that, click ‘Next’, and then you will be able to choose the language in which the version of Windows will work. Choose the language you wish, and then hit the ‘Next’ button.

From here, all you then need to do is choose the correct device to install the flasher onto, which, in this case, will be the chosen MicroSD card that will contain the flasher. Once you have done that, again, hit ‘Next.

From here, you will be able to make some specific changes to your options using the ‘advanced’ settings. 

Once you are happy with your selected version of Windows for your Raspberry Pi 400, simply hit the button marked ‘Flash’.

This will cause the version of Windows to be downloaded directly onto the flash drive that you inserted! However, keep in mind that this process can take a bit of time to complete!

Step 3 – Move Windows 10 To Your Raspberry Pi 400

Once the Windows 10 package has been fully installed onto the Micro SD card, you can simply eject it safely, and then move it over to the chosen Raspberry Pi 400 device. 

Once the SD card has been inserted into the Raspberry Pi, you can then simply boot the unit up, and it will boot up using the Windows-based firmware.

Make sure to give it some time to boot up because it will take a good few minutes.

The first thing you should see upon fully booting up is a small window that will introduce you to the new firmware that your Raspberry Pi 400 is now running on.

On this window, simply click ‘Next’, and then hit ‘Install’, which will begin the final installation process.

Again, leave the computer to install this system for a few minutes as it may take some time.

Once the firmware has been installed, the Raspberry Pi 400 will simply reboot, and once the screen comes back on, you will notice that it is now running on a version of Windows 10 or Windows 11. 

Step 4 – Final Checks

At this point, you should be able to utilize Windows 10 on your Raspberry Pi 400 with ease, but if you encounter any problems, it may need to be updated.

If this is the case, you will need to make use of an ethernet cable, as there is no Wifi compatibility with the WoR version of Windows 10!

Make sure to also be calm and slow with the Raspberry Pi 400 version of Windows 10, because it can be volatile and prone to freezing if overloaded.

To Wrap Up

There we have it!

Though Windows 10 does not run natively on a Raspberry Pi 400, due to having a very different infrastructure, it is possible to get it running through the use of a flasher that can easily be downloaded from the web and installed into the unit. 

Make sure to follow all of the steps we detailed above as carefully as you can so that the installation does not face any hiccups and you do not end up damaging your Raspberry Pi 400 model! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Installing a Linux distribution like Arch Linux on a Raspberry Pi can seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with the Raspberry Pi’s compact size and user-friendly interface, it is a perfect platform for learning programming and computing skills.

If you’re looking to install Arch Linux on your Raspberry Pi, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the installation process step-by-step, making it easy for even the most novice Raspberry Pi users to master.

Let’s dive in!

How Do You Install Arch Linux On A Raspberry Pi?

Let’s start by gathering everything you need. To get Arch Linux up and running on Raspberry Pi, you will need the Raspberry Pi device itself, as well as a PC, with a card reader, that already has the Linux framework running.

You will also want a MicroSD card that has at least 8 gigabytes of storage capacity.

If you are unsure of which Raspberry Pi model to choose we have put together a handy guide comparing each model.

To Wrap Up

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Arch Linux on your Raspberry Pi. You can now explore the endless possibilities that come with having a powerful Linux distribution on your compact device.

From experimenting with new programming languages to setting up servers and running complex applications, the sky’s the limit. We hope this guide has been helpful in simplifying the installation process for you.

Remember to keep exploring and learning new things with your Raspberry Pi and Arch Linux. You might like our guides on how to install Chrome on a Raspberry Pi, or how to rename a Linux directory.

Good luck!

As always we have included a handy video from maketecheasier for those of you who are more visual learners.

From beginner-friendly options to more advanced choices, there is an operating system out there for everyone. 

So, let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your Raspberry Pi 4.

Our Top Picks For The Best OS For Raspberry Pi 4

Choosing an OS for Raspberry Pi devices was tricky during the early days of development as there was only a handful of operating software that supported it. 

Luckily, these days we have a long list of Operating Systems to choose from for the Raspberry Pi 4.

Here are our top picks for the best OS for the Raspberry Pi 4 in 2023. 

Raspberry Pi OS (also known as Raspbian)

Previously known as Raspbian (due to being based on Debian), this is the official OS produced by the Raspberry Pi Foundation for its devices.

Raspberry Pi OS is often considered the best OS for Raspberry Pi 4 because it packs the following features:

• High stability 
• Snappy performance
• It allows the downloading of other Debian packages
• Has an inbuilt PIXEL desktop system 
• It comes with many pre-installed applications like Python 2/3, Mathematica, Scratch, MATLAB, LibreOffice tools, and a Web Browser.

All-in-all it’s an excellent choice for people who use their Pi devices as desktops due to it having an intuitive graphical interface and a suite of pre-installed software and tools to get you up and running quickly.

Plus, because it is the official operating system for the Raspberry Pi, Raspbian is regularly updated and well-maintained. Meaning, you can trust that it will work well on your Raspberry Pi 4, without the need to worry about compatibility and stability issues.

Windows on Raspbeery (WoR) Project & Windows IoT

A Raspberry Pi-Windows collaboration was done to produce a Raspberry Pi OS. It was done to provide Windows developers with a way to use Raspberry Pi 4 OS for their development projects. 

This collaboration resulted in the development of two Raspberry Pi OS versions: the unaffiliated WoR Project and Windows loT Core. 

WoR comes with a relatively complicated installation procedure. However, if you’re at least somewhat tech-savvy it shouldn’t be too difficult. 

On the other hand, Windows loT Core is a less extreme and watered-down version of Windows 10. Using it is very easy and the OS can be downloaded from Microsoft’s website for free to boot!  

At the end of the day, both of these could be suitable choices for people who have been using Windows-based systems for development for years and are reluctant to shift to a new platform.

Additionally, they also support Azure IoT services — Microsoft’s cloud computing platform that offers a range of tools for building and deploying IoT solutions.

This means that with Windows 10 IoT Core, you can easily connect your Raspberry Pi 4 to Azure and take advantage of these services to create sophisticated IoT projects. 

However, keep in mind that Windows 10 IoT Core is not a full-featured or optimized operating system like Raspbian or Ubuntu, and may not be suitable for users who aim to use their Pi devices for different tasks and projects.

Raspberry Pi 4 Lineage OS

LineageOS is a Raspberry Pi 4 OS that is based on the Android mobile operating system. It offers a range of features and benefits for users, including support for a wide range of applications and tools, and a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.

One of the biggest advantages of Lineage OS is its compatibility with the Android ecosystem. Because it is based on Android, Lineage OS supports many of the same applications and tools that are available for Android smartphones and tablets. 

This can be a big plus point for users who want to use their Raspberry Pi to run Android apps and games, or to use Android-compatible tools and services.

Another highlight of Lineage OS is its user-friendly interface. Lineage OS features a simple, easy-to-use interface that is similar to what you would find on an Android smartphone or tablet. 

This makes it easy to navigate and use, even for those who are new to the Raspberry Pi or to Linux-based operating systems.

Ubuntu desktop for Raspberry Pi

Another option to consider for your next Raspberry Pi 4 OS is Ubuntu, a popular Linux-based operating system.

Ubuntu specializes in providing a full desktop experience from any kind of device. It offers a wide working array that allows its user to work, surf the internet, and develop multiple software

And similar to Raspbian, it also comes with a modern interface and a bunch of pre-installed apps to help get you started right away.

RetroPie

For users who want to use their Raspberry Pi as a retro gaming console, the RetroPie OS is an excellent choice. 

RetroPie allows users to easily install and configure a variety of emulators for popular retro gaming systems, including the: 

• Sega Genesis
• Super Nintendo
• Nintendo DS
• Commodore 64
• Classic Gameboy
• Nintendo Wii

Overall, with its intuitive interface and comprehensive collection of emulators, RetroPie makes it easy to relive the golden age of gaming on the Raspberry Pi 4 and is one you should definitely consider trying out on your device.

Chromium OS

Last but not least, Google’s Chromium OS is also worth mentioning in this list of the best OS for Raspberry Pi 4. 

This OS is an open-source version of Google’s own Chrome OS and you can easily download and run it on your Pi device.

And much like the original, it’s a web-centric OS that uses minimum device space just like Chrome OS. This lightness is what makes it perfect for running on SBCs with limited processing speeds like the Raspberry Pi 4.  

So, What OS Should I Use For My Raspberry Pi 4?

Ultimately, the best OS for your Raspberry Pi 4 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. 

For example, for users who want a full-featured and user-friendly operating system, Raspbian and Ubuntu are excellent choices. 

Both of these OS offer a wide range of pre-installed software and support for the Raspberry Pi’s hardware, making them great options for beginners and experienced users alike.

Alternatively, for users who want a more lightweight OS for simple browsing, internet activities or online data entry jobs, Chromium OS is a great option. 

Lastly, for users who want to use their Raspberry Pi as a retro gaming console, the RetroPie OS is also a solid choice. 

Don’t just take our word for it though, the crew over at Explaining Computers have put together a handy video outlining their pick of the best OS for the Raspberry Pi 4. Check it out below.

Arguably, one of the key factors that contribute to its popularity is the availability of different operating systems (OS) that can be installed on the device. 

These operating systems include the two official releases; Raspberry Pi OS Lite, and Raspberry Pi OS Desktop – which are designed to cater to the different needs and preferences of users.

In this post, we will take a closer look at the key differences between the two official Raspberry Pi OS versions, their features, capabilities, and use cases to help you make an informed decision about which one is the right fit for your needs.

What Is Raspberry Pi OS Lite?

In simple terms, Raspberry Pi OS Lite is a minimalistic version of the official Raspberry Pi Desktop OS. 

It is designed to be lightweight, resource-efficient, and easy to run on older Pi devices with slower processing speeds.

This means it is ideal for users who are looking to build custom applications or projects that require a bare-bones operating system with minimal overhead.

Some of the key features of the Raspberry Pi OS Lite version include:

• Based on the Debian GNU/Linux operating system
  The Raspberry Pi OS Lite and the Desktop (check out our full guide to the best operating systems for Raspberry Pi here) version are both built on the stable and secure Debian GNU/Linux operating system, which is known for its reliability and long-term support.
  
• Bare-bones desktop environment
  The operating system doesn’t come with a graphical user interface (GUI) or many pre-installed applications. This allows users to customize their operating system according to their needs and preferences.
  
• Headless configuration
  The OS is well-suited for users who want to run their Raspberry Pi in a headless configuration, which means that it is not connected to a display. This makes it ideal for use in a variety of applications such as network-attached storage (NAS), home automation, and remote access.
  
• Lightweight and faster
  Because this OS makes use of ssh connections and remote access via CLI (Command Line Interface) to control the device instead of a heavy GUI desktop interface, it’s also much faster and less demanding to run on Pi devices (especially old ones).

Overall, the Raspberry Pi OS Lite is a versatile and customizable operating system that is well-suited for experienced users who have lower spec, or older model Pi devices around the house that they want to use for custom projects.

Plus, if you ever feel like you’d much rather prefer having a desktop environment, you can always add a desktop GUI to this Raspberry Pi OS version by simply installing the necessary packages down the line!

What Is Raspberry Pi OS Desktop?

On the other hand, the Raspberry Pi OS Desktop is a full-fledged operating system that comes with a complete GUI and a wide range of pre-installed applications. 

This means it is ideal for users who want a more traditional desktop experience and do not want to spend time setting up and configuring their operating system.

The key features of this Raspberry Pi OS version include its:

• User-friendly interface
  This operating system comes with a user-friendly interface based on the LXDE desktop environment. This makes it easy for users to navigate and use the operating system, even if they are new to using Pi devices.
  
• Pre-installed applications
  The Desktop version also comes with a wide range of pre-installed applications such as a web browser, text editor, and media player. This makes it easy for users to get started with their Raspberry Pi and perform common tasks without having to install additional software.
  
• Versatility
  It’s also well-suited for a wide range of applications such as gaming, media playback, and productivity due to the variety of tools and drivers it comes pre-installed with. This makes it easy to get started with your Pi device, regardless of your level of expertise.

However, because of the heavy pre-installed GUI desktop interface, this OS does have greater recommended system and hardware requirements. Therefore, it may run poorly on older hardware.

Additionally, because this OS is cluttered with pre-installed apps and comes with a standard GUI, it’s not as customizable as its bare-bones alternative – The Raspberry Pi OS Lite.

Raspberry Pi OS Lite VS Desktop – Which Is The Right Operating System For You?

As with most things in life, ultimately, the choice between the Raspberry Pi OS Lite and the Desktop version will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

For example, if you are an experienced user looking to build custom projects on your Raspberry Pi and have low RAM or slow processing speed devices, then this Raspberry Pi OS version may be right up your alley.

But, if you’re someone who uses more powerful Pi devices and wants a more traditional desktop experience, then Raspberry Pi OS Desktop may be a better fit. 

At the end of the day, the choice between the Raspberry Pi OS Lite and Desktop variants will depend on your goals, hardware, and experience level.

Both operating systems offer their own unique set of features and capabilities that you need to consider when deciding on which one is the right fit for your needs. 

But having said that, you can’t go wrong with either one of them as they’re both made by the official Raspberry Pi foundation and are reliable operating systems. 

So, whether you choose the Raspberry Pi OS Lite or Desktop, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality operating system that is designed specifically for use on the Raspberry Pi.

Plus, you can always start with one operating system and switch to the other if you find that it doesn’t meet your needs. 

After all, the Raspberry Pi is a versatile and flexible device, and it is easy to install and switch between different operating systems as most of them aren’t nearly as big as those found on Desktop computers!

If you are already using Pi OS Lite, and want to move to a more full-featured and conventional operating system, RaspberryTips have put together an awesome video showing what’s involved in upgrading from Pi OS Lite to Pi OS Desktop.

It is often used by people to learn and explore computing in a simple way, and is especially good to learn simplistic programming languages like Python or Scratch.

One of the problems with Raspberry Pi computers is their limited internet connection options. Because of this, many users choose to build their own with their Pi and operating systems such as OpenWrt.

OpenWrt is a great system, however, can be a bit intimidating if you’re new to Pi computing. How hard is it to install? What are the steps I need to take to install OpenWrt on my Raspberry Pi? 

Well – if these are some of the questions you’re wondering about, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article we’re going to take you through everything there is to know about Raspberry Pi and OpenWrt.

We’ve also made sure to include a short FAQ section to help define some of the more technical terms used in this article.

So let’s get right into it! 

Why Use OpenWrt On A Raspberry Pi?

There are a few main reasons why the router on a Raspberry Pi isn’t great unless you use additional hardware. The first is that it comes with a small WiFi chip, which means you won’t get total WiFi coverage.

The second is that you’ll notice Raspberry Pi’s only come with 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port, meaning that you can only ever have one connection. Even though this is a difficult thing to overcome, there are a few ways you can broaden the horizons of your tiny PC.

Many users decide to use additional hardware to fix this problem, strapping their Raspberry Pi up to an external router. However, with this solution comes another problem—you need some form of distribution software to make it all run smoothly. This is where OpenWrt comes in. 

What Is OpenWrt?

OpenWrt is an embedded Linux distribution that can be installed on different routers. Linux (see also ‘Does Linux Need Antivirus?‘) users choose it as a way to power routers and manage network traffic.

It’s particularly useful for smaller systems such as the Raspberry Pi that use Linux and don’t come with the best default firmware (see also ‘How To Update 8BitDo Firmware‘) to allow you smooth internet browsing. 

OpenWrt comes with a web interface that allows you to configure different options and customize them for your own needs. One thing to note here is you might something see OpenWrt referred to as ‘LEDE,’ but this is just the previous name of the software. 

How To Install OpenWrt On A Raspberry Pi 

If you’re building your own router with a Raspberry Pi, then you’re going to need a few things before you get started. You’ll need a Raspberry Pi, some kind of storage card (for example a USB stick or a Micro SD card), and a network connection.

You can use your Raspberry Pi’s built-in Wifi/Gigabit Ethernet Port, or an additional dongle. You’re also going to need another computer of some kind that will allow you to format the storage card of your choice.

A quick note here: we’re only going to be dealing with the installation of OpenWrt, not how to build an entire custom router.  With these components in place, you can begin to install OpenWrt on your Raspberry Pi. We’re going to break this down into a few simple steps.

Download The Correct Install Image For Your Raspberry Pi Model

The first thing you’re going to need to do is to install OpenWrt on a Raspberry Pi from the right install image. You can find this by following the link here and navigating down to the right Pi model. 

Download Raspberry Pi Imager 

Next up, you’re going to need to download Raspberry Pi Imager from this link here. This will give you the correct operating system that will allow your Raspberry Pi to work.

There are a few different options here (Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu) so make sure you pick the right one and install it. 

To install the Pi imager onto Raspberry Pi OS, type the following command into a terminal window:

sudo apt install rpi-imager

Open Raspberry Pi Imager 

From here you’ll get a small interface that will include three distinct options. The first will say ‘CHOOSE OS’ under ‘Operating System.’ The second will say ‘CHOOSE STORAGE’ under ‘Storage’ and the third will give you an option to ‘WRITE.’

For now, all you need to do is select CHOOSE OS and select the ‘Use Custom’ option. 

Find The Install Image You Downloaded Previously

Next up, we’re going to direct the imager to use the image that we downloaded during the first step of our guide.  Find the install image and ensure it’s the right one before moving on to storage.

Select Storage

Remember the USB stick or SD card we mentioned earlier? This is the step where this comes in. Under the ‘Storage’ section of the interface, click on the ‘CHOOSE’ option and direct the interface to your preferred storage device.

A quick note here—you need to make sure that you select the right one, as any data on your storage device will be wiped when you select it. 

Confirm And Final Steps

So from here, you’re going to need to check over all the configurations you’ve done and make sure you’ve selected the correct storage device and operating system. Once this is done, click on the ‘WRITE’ option, and OpenWrt will begin to install onto your device. 

Once this is done, the storage device will have OpenWrt installed, and you can slot it into your Raspberry Pi to begin using it. 

Using OpenWrt

We’re not going to go into great detail on how to use OpenWrt and the options it gives you, but once you’ve slotted your storage device into your you can access it within your web browser of choice (check out our guide on downloading Firefox for Raspberry Pi).

You need to first ensure that your Raspberry Pi is connected to your internet network via an ethernet cable, in-built WiFi, or external dongle. From here, you’re going to need to connect it to this address:

http://192.168.1.1

From here, you’ll find a login screen that will allow you to configure additional network settings. 

Frequently Asked Questions :

Final Thoughts

So from there, you‘re going to be able to start using OpenWrt to power your WiFi. There is a lot you can do with OpenWrt, and we’re not going to get into that now, but installing is relatively simple and can be done without a lot of expensive hardware. 

We hope that this article has explained the basics of how to install OpenWrt onto your Raspberry Pi and that you’re now more confident in the whole process.

Raspberry Pi computers are great, inexpensive gadgets that can help you learn the basics of computing. We wish you the best of luck and hope that you get everything running smoothly! 

Fortunately for you, in this guide, we’ll go through all the basics and explain how to develop GUI for Raspberry Pi, as well as some tips on how to get started.

So, let’s begin!

What Is A GUI?

Before we start talking about how to develop a GUI for the Raspberry Pi, it’s important to first define what a GUI is. 

A GUI, or graphical user interface, is a kind of interface that lets users control their devices in a graphical way, typically through icons and visual indicators such as windows, menus, images, sliders, and buttons. 

In simple words, in these interfaces, users understand the icons and widgets on the interface while the computer knows the commands associated with them.

And it’s no secret that we’ve grown accustomed to using highly responsive smartphone and desktop user interfaces. However, as you’ll find out below, developing GUI applications for Raspberry Pi or other embedded platforms requires you to go through several steps. 

How to Develop GUI for Raspberry Pi? 

Now that you know what a GUI is, let’s take a look at how to develop one for the Raspberry Pi.

Below, we’ve discussed two easy methods to install, run, and develop GUI in your Raspberry Pi. 

Method 1

If during the process of installing Raspbian, you failed to set up the GUI properly and now need to install GUI in your Pi, method 1 might be perfect for you.

Step 1: Log in to your Pi 

To begin with, log in using your username and password as you boot into the command line. For those who haven’t changed the defaults, the username and password should be “pi” and “raspberry,” respectively. 

Step 2: Establish An Internet Connection 

You can skip this step if you already have a stable Ethernet connection. But, if you need to connect to Wi-Fi, type the command sudo iwlist wlan0 scan. 

Pressing enter will provide you with a list of Wi-Fi SSIDs in your location. Note your network’s SSID and enter the following command to add it to your device. 

Sudo nano /etc/wpa_supplicant/wpa_supplicant.conf

Now, type these code lines at the end:

• network = {
• ssid = “YOUR_SSID”
• psk = “YOUR_PASSWORD”
• }

Save the document by pressing Control+O and exit by pressing down Ctrl+X. 

Step 3: Installing the Graphical User Interface 

You need to install the rip-chromium-mods and raspberrypi-ui-mods after updating apt. Here’s the command you need to type:

“sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get -y dist-upgrade && sudo apt-get install raspberrypi-ui-mods rpi-chromium-mods”

Once the process is complete, restart your Raspberry Pi using the sudo reboot command.

Step 4: Configure 

If you fail to start GUI on Raspberry Pi even after booting (see also ‘Can Raspberry Pi Boot From USB?‘), you can enable the graphical user interface manually from the configuration file by typing sudo raspi-config 

Navigate the “Enable Boot to Desktop” tab and press it. Now choose Login user ‘Pi’ on the desktop. 

Follow the on-screen instructions, and you’ll successfully start GUI on Raspberry Pi. 

Method 2

To develop GUI for Raspberry Pi using the second method, as a prerequisite, you’ll need to install both Python 3 and the Guizero Python module on your device. 

Once installed, here’s an example of how to make a simple GUI for Raspberry Pi in Python from scratch:

Step 1: Create A Script

• Open Python 3 and click on File 
• Open New File and save it as gui_test.py 
• Now, you’d need to add a code line to the top of your file – it will help import the App class from guizero. 

from guizero import App 

• Add three more commands to create and display the App on your screen

app = App (title= “GUI Test”)

message= Text (app, text= “hello world”)

app. display ()

• Save the file and run it by typing 

Sudo python3 gui_test.py

• There you have it! You have successfully developed a simple GUI that can display text messages in Raspberry Pi 

Step 2: Add Widgets 

Now that you know how to make a GUI for Raspberry Pi, you can start adding content and widgets to your graphical user interface using Guizero. These can include anything like text boxes, text, pictures, and buttons. 

Here’s what you can do to start adding widgets to your GUI:

• First, you must always import any new widget you’re willing to use from the Guizero library. The first code line on your screen will be from guizero import App 
• So, if you want to use a text widget, you can import it using the code of line: from guizero import App, Text 
• Or, if you need something else, like a push button widget, you can import it using the code: from guizero import App, Pushbutton
• For the complete library of Guizero widgets and how to add each one individually, click here.

Just remember, the key is to always add an import statement and make sure to always add the code above the app.display() or event loop and below the code line when adding widgets. 

You have to do this because the code line starts in the event loop. Once you implement it, the graphical user interface waits for user actions or events, like pressing a button. 

The GUI will then track your actions and update the display accordingly. However, once the event loop is blocked, the code you write after it won’t execute! 

The Takeaway: How To Develop GUI for Raspberry Pi

Developing and setting up a GUI for the Raspberry Pi is a relatively complex process, especially for beginners with little to no coding experience. However, the two methods outlined above should hopefully get you started on the right track.

It’s important to note that while many tools and programming languages can be used to develop GUI for Raspberry Pi, the key thing is to choose the right tool for the job and to have fun throughout the process! 

Finally – if you’re more of a visual learner – the video below is a great walkthrough that will help you build out an easy GUI! Check it out:

As part of this, the Raspbian OS, which is the base operating system for all Raspberry Pi computers, continues to be updated constantly, in order to provide bug fixes, solutions for digital problems, and brand-new features.

Raspberry Pi computers are used, day to day, by millions of people, as educational platforms for learning to code, program, and build computers, or even as portable personal computers that can be slipped right into your pocket with ease.

With so many different users operating these computers for different purposes, it is inevitable that patches and Raspbian OS updates will come about to improve their experience. One of our favorite projects is using the Raspberry Pi as a retro gaming machine hooked up to a big TV!

But how do you actually tell if your Pi is updated to the latest Raspbian version? And how do you find out exactly which version you are using? Does the latest Raspbian OS work on all Pi devices? Even the oldest models? 

If you’ve ever wondered what version of Raspbian OS your Pi is running on, prepare to wonder no longer, as we are going to show you exactly how you can find out what version of the popular OS your Pi is running on!

How Do I Know What Version Of Raspbian I Have?

There is a very simple method that you can use to find out exactly what version of Raspbian OS your Pi computer is operating on. Open up the terminal on your Pi and, on a new row, type in:

cat /etc/os-release

By typing in this command, you will be met with the information you are looking for. The information includes such things as the version, its name, and where it was downloaded from.

The terminal will tell you the name of the OS you are running on, and exactly which version you are running, as determined by the number just under the name.

You can also see exactly where the particular OS was downloaded from, and where you can get more information on it.

How Do You Update Your Raspbian OS?

If you find that your Pi is not operating on the current version of the Raspbian OS, don’t worry, it is very easy to download the latest version.

Open up the Pi terminal and then type in the following command:

sudo apt update

This will download the latest available Raspbian OS, ready to be installed onto the computer itself. 

From there, head back to the terminal and type in:

sudo apt dist-upgrade

This will cause the update file to be implemented and installed onto the computer. Wait for the updated OS to install. This can take some time, so while you wait, give yourself a pat on the back for making it this far! 

Once the update file has been installed into your Raspberry Pi computer, all you then need to do is restart the Raspberry Pi itself. When the Pi reboots, it will now be running on the latest version of the OS that you recently installed. 

How Do You Know Which Model Of Raspberry Pi You Have?

There is a very simple command that you can type directly into the Rapsbian OS’ terminal to find out exactly which model of Raspberry Pi you are using. Simply open up your terminal window, create a new row, and then type in:

cat/proc/cpuinfo

This will bring up all kinds of data about the CPU of the Raspberry Pi you are operating on (see also ‘Does Overclocking Reduce CPU Lifespan‘). It will tell you exactly the board your Pi is built from, as well as who manufactured it.

This can help you to narrow down exactly which Raspberry Pi you are using. 

Does The Latest Version of Rapbian OS Work On All Raspberry Pi Models?

Yes. Even the very latest version of the Raspbian OS will operate smoothly on even the oldest model of Raspberry Pi computer.

This is because the Raspbian OS is highly optimized, and works perfectly no matter where it is installed, as it is designed to not be overly taxing on computer systems. 

If you’re worried that your current Raspberry Pi model will not be able to handle the latest version of the Raspbian OS, don’t worry, it will work perfectly fine!

Can A Raspberry Pi Run On Any Other OS Than Raspbian OS?

Yes. Though the Raspbian OS is perfectly optimized to work amazingly on your Raspberry Pi computer, a Pi can also run on a number of other operating systems, so you can customize your experience as you see fit.

A few examples of operating systems that run on the Raspberry Pi include Ubuntu, which has a very straightforward UI and runs quite well.

However, in order to run Ubuntu, you will need to ensure that your Raspberry Pi is model 2 or higher, or it will not run effectively. 

Other operating systems include Arch Linux ARM, which is a more advanced operating system option for those who have lots of experience with computers and know their way around.

FydeOS allows you to access an operating system that is incredibly similar to the Google Chrome OS. This is great for those who want a simple and easy-to-understand OS for things such as video and music streaming.

This is just a small number of operating systems that can effectively run on a Raspberry Pi computer.

However, it is important that we mention that Raspberry Pi computers are designed to run on Raspbian OS, and thus you may encounter serious issues when running other operating systems upon it. 

Make sure to exercise caution and moderation when running any other kind of OS on your Raspberry Pi, so that you can be sure it will not overheat or become overloaded and run the risk of becoming irreparably corrupted.

What Are Our Finishing Thoughts?

Finding out which version of the Raspbian OS you are running on is incredibly easy, and this information can be found with just a few commands pumped into the terminal of your Pi computer.

The Raspbian OS is perfectly optimized for Raspberry Pi computers, and thus it operates perfectly on every single model of Raspberry Pi.

Pi computers can run on other operating systems, but some work slightly better than others. You should also be careful to ensure that you do not overload your Pi computer by making it run from another OS that it was not designed for use with.

Check out the video below for a walkthrough on how to find out what version of Raspbian is running on your Raspberry Pi.

Frequently Asked Questions