How to Install a Lightweight Bodhi Linux Distro

If you're looking for a lightweight and customizable Linux distribution, Bodhi Linux is definitely worth checking out. This operating system is based on Ubuntu and uses the Enlightenment desktop environment, which provides a sleek and minimalistic interface.

In this guide, we'll go through the steps to install Bodhi Linux on your computer. We'll cover the requirements, the installation process, and some tips to get started with your new Bodhi Linux system.

Requirements

Before installing Bodhi Linux, you'll need to make sure your computer meets the following requirements −

• A 64-bit processor

• At least 512 MB of RAM (1 GB recommended)

• At least 5 GB of free hard drive space

• A DVD drive or a USB flash drive with at least 2 GB of storage capacity

• A stable internet connection

• If your computer meets these requirements, you're ready to proceed to the next step.

Downloading Bodhi Linux

The first step to install Bodhi Linux is to download the ISO file from the official website. The ISO file is a disk image that contains the operating system files, and you can burn it to a DVD or create a bootable USB drive from it.

To download the ISO file, go to the Bodhi Linux website and click on the Download link. Choose the version you want to install (e.g., 6.0.0) and select the appropriate architecture (32-bit or 64-bit). Then, click on the Download button to start the download.

Creating a Bootable USB Drive

Once you've downloaded the ISO file, you can create a bootable USB drive using a tool like Rufus or Etcher. These tools allow you to create a bootable USB drive from an ISO file, which you can use to install Bodhi Linux on your computer.

To create a bootable USB drive, insert a USB flash drive into your computer and open Rufus or Etcher. Select the ISO file you downloaded and choose the USB drive as the destination. Then, click on the Start button to create the bootable USB drive.

Booting from the USB Drive

After creating the bootable USB drive, you'll need to boot your computer from it. To do this, restart your computer and press the key that opens the boot menu (e.g., F12 or Esc). Then, select the USB drive as the boot device and press Enter.

The Bodhi Linux installer should start loading from the USB drive. If you encounter any issues, make sure to check the BIOS settings to enable booting from USB drives.

Installing Bodhi Linux

Once the Bodhi Linux installer has loaded, you'll see a welcome screen with several options. Choose the Install Bodhi Linux option to start the installation process.

The installer will guide you through several steps, such as selecting the language, time zone, and keyboard layout. Make sure to read and follow the instructions carefully.

Next, you'll be prompted to select the installation type. You can choose to install Bodhi Linux alongside your existing operating system, erase the entire disk and install Bodhi Linux, or manually partition the disk.

If you're new to Linux or want to keep things simple, we recommend choosing the first option to install Bodhi Linux alongside your existing operating system. This will create a dual-boot setup that allows you to choose between Bodhi Linux and your other operating system at startup.

After selecting the installation type, you'll be prompted to select the disk where you want to install Bodhi Linux. Make sure to select the correct disk, as this will erase all the data on the selected disk.

Next, you'll be asked to confirm the installation settings, such as the disk layout and partition scheme. If everything looks good, click on the Install button to start the installation process.

The installation process may take some time, depending on your computer's speed and the installation type you selected. Once the installation is complete, you'll be prompted to reboot your computer.

After rebooting, you should see the GRUB bootloader screen, which allows you to choose between Bodhi Linux and your other operating system (if you installed Bodhi Linux alongside it). Select Bodhi Linux to boot into your new operating system.

Getting Started with Bodhi Linux

Congratulations, you've successfully installed Bodhi Linux on your computer! Here are some tips to get started with your new operating system −

Customizing the Enlightenment Desktop

One of the main features of Bodhi Linux is the Enlightenment desktop environment, which provides a sleek and minimalistic interface. You can customize the desktop by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting Settings.

From here, you can change the theme, wallpaper, and other settings. You can also add new desktop widgets by clicking on the shelf at the bottom of the screen and selecting Add Widget.

Installing Applications

Bodhi Linux comes with a set of pre-installed applications, including a web browser, a file manager, and a text editor. You can install additional applications using the Synaptic Package Manager or the apt-get command.

To open the Synaptic Package Manager, click on the Bodhi button at the bottom left of the screen and select Synaptic Package Manager. From here, you can search for and install new applications.

Alternatively, you can open a terminal window by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T and use the apt-get command to install applications. For example, to install the VLC media player, type the following command −

sudo apt-get install vlc

Updating Bodhi Linux

It's important to keep your operating system up-to-date to ensure stability and security. You can update Bodhi Linux using the Update Manager or the apt-get command.

To open the Update Manager, click on the Bodhi button at the bottom left of the screen and select Update Manager. From here, you can check for and install updates.

Alternatively, you can use the apt-get command to update your system. Open a terminal window and type the following command −

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade

Joining the Bodhi Linux Community

Bodhi Linux has a strong and supportive community of users and developers. You can join the community by visiting the Bodhi Linux forums or the Bodhi Linux subreddit.

Here, you can ask questions, share tips and tricks, and connect with other Bodhi Linux users. The community is a great resource for learning more about Bodhi Linux and getting help with any issues you may encounter.

Additionally, Bodhi Linux is known for its minimal resource usage, making it a great option for older or less powerful computers. Its focus on simplicity and customization allows users to create a tailored experience that fits their specific needs.

One of the unique features of Bodhi Linux is the AppPack system, which allows users to install pre-configured application bundles that are designed for specific use cases. For example, the Multimedia AppPack includes a variety of multimedia applications, such as video players and audio editors.

Bodhi Linux also includes the Moksha desktop environment, which is a fork of the Enlightenment desktop environment. Moksha provides a modern and flexible interface that is designed for stability and ease of use.

If you're interested in trying out Bodhi Linux, you can also test it out using a live USB drive. This allows you to run Bodhi Linux without installing it on your computer, giving you a feel for the operating system before committing to an installation.

Overall, Bodhi Linux is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight and customizable Linux distribution. Its focus on simplicity and customization, combined with its minimal resource usage, makes it a unique and powerful operating system.

Conclusion

Bodhi Linux is a lightweight and customizable Linux distribution that provides a sleek and minimalistic interface. Installing Bodhi Linux is a straightforward process that requires a 64-bit processor, at least 512 MB of RAM, and a DVD drive or a USB flash drive.

To install Bodhi Linux, you'll need to download the ISO file from the official website, create a bootable USB drive, and boot your computer from the USB drive. The installer will guide you through the installation process, and you can customize the desktop, install applications, and join the Bodhi Linux community.

We hope this guide has been helpful in getting started with Bodhi Linux. With its lightweight and customizable interface, Bodhi Linux is a great choice for anyone looking for a sleek and minimalist operating system.