What is Puppy Linux? Everything you need to know about Puppy Linux

You probably already know that Linux runs on almost any device. You also know that it can perform most tasks from supercomputers, web servers, or even low-end systems.

A Linux distro that can run on virtually any computer with minimal configuration and computing resources is Puppy Linux.

What is Puppy Linux?

First released in 2003, Puppy Linux is the fastest, compact, lightest member of the Linux operating system family.

Puppy Linux weighs just under 300MB, with all the usual essentials in it. It will be suitable, easy for all ages, anyone can use this operating system.

What's more, Puppy Linux comes with the same dock as it does on macOS. You can also edit desktop themes and wallpapers.

Puppy Linux has been around for so long that it has become so popular. In addition to official versions, hundreds of 'personalized' versions have been created to cater to specific needs.

The light capacity means you can install Puppy Linux on the same CD-ROMs, USBs, SD cards, or whatever hard drive you have. You can install Puppy Linux on a PC, a virtual machine or even a USB device.

Puppy Linux is not .

Puppy Linux is unlike most other Linux distributions. First, it is not a single distribution. It is a combination of many different distributions that share the same operating philosophy.

These distributions will provide consistent performance and functionality, so you should choose which version to use without problems. Puppy Linux is divided into 3 main groups:

1. The official Puppy Linux distributions are for general use and are maintained by the Puppy Linux team, using a system called Woof-CE.
2. A 'Woof-built' distribution built on Woof-CE is also available, mostly designed for special use.
3. Puplet is the third type, commonly used by the Puppy Linux community. They are non-English versions or special feature versions.

Puppy Linux is not based on a distro, you will find versions for Raspbian Buster (for Raspberry Pi) and Ubuntu. It even has Slackware version.

The important features of Puppy Linux

Since this is a lightweight distribution we can't expect great things from Puppy Linux. The desktop looks pretty cool, the default theme can be changed to new themes and wallpapers if needed.

In fact, one of the first things you see when you install Puppy Linux is to choose to tweak it.

Besides, you can also install more applications. The Puppy Linux package manager can deliver more Linux software than you might imagine, although pretty much all the basic elements are missing. Some apps and widgets can install a bit.

In addition, Puppy Linux has a wide range of utilities covering everything a music player to a networking tool.

Which Puppy Linux should I use?

Wondering which version of Puppy Linux to use, because there are so many. This really depends on what device you will be using it on.

1. If you have a modern 64-bit PC, use a version of BionicPup64 based on Ubuntu Bionic 64. The version will be compatible with all Ubuntu repositories.
2. If you want to install a widely supported distribution, Ubuntu Xenial's XenialPup has 32-bit and 64-bit versions available.
3. For older systems, Ubuntu Tahr has 32 and 64 TahrPup systems.
4. If using a Raspberry Pi? Rasp is the best choice, and it's lighter than the Raspbian Lite.
5. For the simplest Linux experience, SlackoPuppy is based on Slackware available in 32 and 64 bit versions.

How to install Puppy Linux

Installation is very simple. Just copy the downloaded ISO to a bootable device, run it on your computer, restart and wait for the live boot menu.

The small size makes Puppy Linux can be stored in any CD or USB and run with a low CPU and low memory. If the machine does not have a hard drive, Puppy Linux can run on bootable USB devices.

This is the easiest Linux installation you can do. Select Applications> Setup> Puppy Installer and follow the instructions. There will be a slight difference from the installation of other operating systems.

If you intend to manually partition, use the GParted domain manager that comes pre-installed on the machine. Wait a moment then right click on the new region and flag as root to save time later. When you choose the device to install, confirm all the options and choose the Frugal setting .

This has a number of benefits, such as keeping individual settings in a separate file, improving running two operating systems, etc.

Frugal's installation means that you will have to save your session when you shut down Puppy Linux. However, the operating system is so light that you can do it often. Click Save , choose a name, choose your passcode method, and then choose a storage location.

Installation is complete when you install Grub4dos to create a boot menu. This depends on whether your computer has another operating system installed or not.

It is very simple and makes sure your settings are saved when the system upgrades.

Can Puppy Linux be used on a high-end PC?

If you have a low-end computer, it is not surprising if you choose an operating system that requires very few resources. But what if your machine is in a terrible configuration?

You should find an operating system that matches your machine's operating system. In theory, Puppy will run smoothly, efficiently, and extremely fast on computers with great specs. Regular updates are essential, minimize security problems, and it's best to use the built-in firewall.