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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Are older, but Linux compatible computers capable of running the newest kernel/version of various distros? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 1 year ago by Macaroni9538@lemmy.ml to c/linux@lemmy.ml

68 comments fedilink hide all child comments

Guys I truly don't mean to spam the community but these are legit questions. Yesterday I posted about linux compatibility and computers and every single person gave me knowledge to use and you're all awesome.

Now my question is, I will undoubtedly be purchasing an older machine, would an older but good running machine still be able to install the latest kernels or versions of distros or are you limited to older versions only, based on the era of your laptop or is it really about the hardware you have? I know ram, disk space, basic stuff like that matters with distros, but I know that will not be a problem. I guess I'm thinking beyond that like processors. are older processors or anything else hold certain machines from being compatible with the newest and greatest kernels? Thanks!

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[–] Psythik@lemm.ee 3 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (1 children)

So, strictly speaking: yes, almost any computer that was ever capable of running Linux should still be capable of running the newest kernel version, with the sole exception of 386s.

So the 286 and 8086 are still compatible, then? :P

What about chips from other ancient architectures? Can I run the latest version of Linux on a 6502?

[–] grue@lemmy.world 26 points 1 year ago

So the 286 and 8086 are still compatible, then? :P

No. My comment was carefully worded: if it could ever run Linux, then it still can (unless it's a 386). Mainline Linux has always required an MMU, so 8086 and 286 were never capable of running it to begin with! 🤓