Using Linux

Soon, you will be given assignments that require you to get hands-on with Linux. Due to our unorthodox class situation these days, I'm expanding the menu of possibilities here, but know that I'm giving them to you in descending order of preference (that is, your choice will not affect your grade, but it may give you less of a learning experience).

Note, if you already use Linux, i.e. you have a physical or virtual Linux computer on which you have root and can run sudo commands (and are willing to use for this class, nothing destructive) then you're already good to go. But feel free to do one of the following anyway.

1) Buy or otherwise obtain a Raspberry Pi. (or use one if you already have it)

I put this one first because not only will you learn during this class, you're very likely to find it rewarding beyond this class as well. The Raspberry Pi is a complete Linux computer, usable and used in a VERY wide array of real-life fun and useful projects; ANY model is acceptable, though the later the better; the current "4" is just the small "board," (good for other projects) and there is also the 400 which is embedded in a keyboard. You will likely need not just the board, but a "kit" which includes a case and cords for hooking it up to a TV or Monitor, as well as a mouse and keyboard.


2) Install a virtual machine

This has traditionally been the required method for getting this done in my class, and I will demonstrate it in class. A longer write-up is below, but if you'd like to bring your computer and follow along in class, do the following first:

Visit http://virtualbox.org and download and install the appropriate version: the "host" refers to your real PHYSICAL computer and that's the one you should download.

Visit https://lubuntu.me/downloads/ and download a LTS ISO It is a BIG file, which is why I want you to do it beforehand.
DO NOT INSTALL OR DOUBLE CLICK THE ISO ITSELF — it won't break anything, but it also probably won't do what you want it to. Just confirm that it exists and that you can "locate" it.

Much more detail here:
Tech Guides:Linux:Virtual Install Complete Instructions