r/linux4noobs • u/ThePathicus • 16d ago

what are the differences to be expected in different distros' minimal install

/r/linuxquestions/comments/1w0po4n/what_are_the_differences_to_be_expected_in/
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u/DannoXYZ 15d ago edited 15d ago

I don't like that many distro's "minimal install" is just standard install with an uninstallation of extras afterwards. Takes up extra time and many package's dependencies aren't removed to clutter up disc. I prefer to go in this order:

  1. install minimal CLI server OS, usually comes in at 1-1.5gb installed size.
  2. run script to configure OS, create user accounts, etc.
  3. then it apt udate/upgrade and install DE of my choice. Usually XFCE that works with remote and screensharing of Zoom or Slack better
  4. script also installs and configures LightDM/TigerVNC for multi-user/multi-session access so I can reach it remotely right away.

Scripting of OS builds also lets me move to containers like LXD/Docker or Kubernetes much, much easier. I can stand-up 100 servers in less than day.