This is something I think we should do, provide some downloadable kits to include our preferred utilities and guides that fixers can burn to USB and take to events. It could also include a document or video or some sort of media that could be dropped onto fresh Linux installs to give the new user some starting info and links to support.
For now I think that discussion should continue here on Talk where I hope more people will join in. At a later date, perhaps a chat room might be a good idea. 
That kind of media is actually quite easy to create. With regularly updated ISOs for each distro : Ubuntu, Wubuntu, Debian, Kali, Zorin, etc.
The choice of distributions is also super important. Not every system fits every user. Some distros are more beginner-friendly (like Zorin or Linux Mint), while others are better suited for tech-savvy users (like Debian, Arch, or Kali). So having a curated mix also including lightweight options, privacy-focused distros, and full-featured desktop environments and can make a big difference in the success of a migration or repair.
We could easily build a 64-128GB USB drive that includes all of them, plus a general-purpose Live Boot environment (independent of distro) with essential tools for repair and default reconfiguration. Verify files and repair with the good iso, like a reset and auto update after.
We can also make it smart: automatic updates of tools and ISOs, so the USB stays fresh. With a simple crontab setup, we could include regular auto-updates, integrity checks, and system-specific automation scripts. The idea is to keep maintenance light and invisible for the user.
Each time the system boots, it could silently check for updates and apply them. If the user tries to shut down during the process, a quick warning would prevent interruptions and the command to handle that already exists and works well.
We’d also need a user creation tool that gives them access only to their personal directory, just like on Windows, with the rest of the system locked down. And if needed, passwordless installs can be handled via .bashrc tweaks or similar tricks, depending on the environment.
So yes, let’s definitely continue here for now. We could start by gathering links to useful tools and ISOs. I have several open FTPs available for uploads/downloads or live sharing. That said, during events, we rarely have stable internet access. So having everything ready offline is key but… Internet is needed to patch some distro or some ISO need web to install files. Web Install only.
Let’s build something useful!
Recommended Linux Distributions (for the USB kit)
| Distribution | Target Audience | Key Benefits | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zorin OS | Beginners, seniors | Familiar Windows-like UI, very user-friendly, polished look | Lite version available |
| Linux Mint | Beginners, general use | Stable, lightweight, huge community, very popular | Ubuntu-based |
| Wubuntu | Windows-minded users | Modern Windows-like UX (10/11), great for smooth migration | Newer distro, very promising |
| Ubuntu (LTS) | General use, supported | Reliable, well-documented, strong hardware compatibility | Great for beginners/intermediate |
| Debian | Advanced users | Rock-solid, clean, no commercial bloat, base of many others | Not beginner-friendly |
| Kali Linux | Security, diagnostics | Built-in tools for forensics, networking, recovery | Use with caution  |
| MX Linux | Older laptops, light use | Lightweight, Debian-based, great admin tools | Good alternative to Lubuntu |
| Porteus / Slax | Ultra-light, portable | Super fast boot, tiny footprint, ideal for USB repair kits | Best for quick jobs |
| ChimeraOS | Gaming / Steam | Steam Big Picture mode, plug-and-play gaming distro | Gaming-specific use |
| Tails | Privacy / sensitive use | Anonymous, amnesic, secure browsing & usage | No persistence by default |
Must-Have Tools on the Bootable ISO (UEFI/Legacy Compatible)
| Tool | Main Purpose | Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Rescuezilla | Clonezilla with GUI for backup & restore | Graphical |
| GParted Live | Disk and partition management | Graphical |
| SystemRescue | Sysadmin toolbox, disk repair, utilities | CLI + GUI |
| Boot-Repair-Disk | Fix GRUB, UEFI, bootloaders | Graphical |
| Super GRUB2 Disk | Detect and boot any installed OS manually | CLI |
| Memtest86+ | RAM diagnostics and stress testing | CLI (boot) |
| TestDisk & PhotoRec | Partition and file recovery | CLI |
| Shred / dd | Secure data wipe, disk imaging | CLI |
| Timeshift | Restore points & system snapshots | Graphical |
| NTFSFix | Basic NTFS partition repair (Windows volumes) | CLI |
| Ventoy (USB boot tool) | Boot any ISO on a single stick | Simple Menu |
Automation Ideas for Repair USB Kits
/home/username, rest of system restricted).bashrc or wrapper scripts)The choice of distributions really matters and not all users have the same needs. Having a curated set of beginner-friendly, lightweight, secure, and advanced distros gives more flexibility and a better chance of successful adoption.
I can definitely help with this side of things and I’ve already developed quite a few bashrc setup scripts and system automation tools, so I’m comfortable coding whatever we might need for the USB setup. Whether it’s auto-updating tools, silent install routines, user profile generators, or system-specific tweaks, I’ve got experience building those and can adapt them easily for this kind of project.
Happy to contribute scripts, test setups, or help integrate everything into a streamlined bootable environment. Just let me know what’s needed!
We could also go further and set up an iPXE-based network boot environment. It’s totally doable locally using a mini PC or a laptop as the boot server, even without internet access. The only downside is speed unless you’re on a 2.5 Gbps network or higher, installations over 1 Gbps LAN can easily take twice as long, especially for larger ISO files or full system images.
Still, for lab setups or fixed locations like a Repair Café hub, it could be a fantastic option and a great fallback if USB booting fails or is restricted.
I work for a charity refurbishing laptops for refugees. I am not super techie but I am now happy installing Linux on laptops that cannot take W11. I used Rufus to make a USB installer for Linux Mint Cinnamon. I am attaching the guide that I have made to help myself and others on this project
Loading Linux on to a laptop checklist Ref:……………
Make and model: ………………………………………… Serial number:
Down load Linux Cinnamon Mint ISO and unzip https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php
Make a bootable USB using Rufus. NB choose GPI and not MBR format
Boot from the USB stick by changing the Boot order in Bios
Linux will load but is now running off the USB. On the Linux desktop there is an icon to “Load Linux”.
Linus will now install onto the HDD/SSD
Choose English UK
If required make an admin password that is long enough. I used …
Choose to erase disc contents and install Linux Mint
Your name: …
Computer name will now be xxxxxx– latitude etc
Username xxxx(has to be lowercase)
Password …
Select “Require password to logon”
Restart and remove USB stick
Once Linux is now running: Click on LM icon which brings up options
Go to Driver Manager and check for updates â–ˇ
Go to Update Manager which will check for updates â–ˇ
Go to Firewall configuration. The default configuration is incoming Deny and Outgoing Allow. Click on the status slider to make this configuration active â–ˇ
Go to System Reports/System Information:
Processor: …………………. RAM:……………………… Battery% ….%
SSD: ……………
Libreoffice is installed automatically. Its best to change the default format for word documents to .docx
I work for a charity refurbishing laptops for refugees. I am not super techie but I am now happy installing Linux on laptops that cannot take W11. I used Rufus to make a USB installer for Linux Mint Cinnamon. I am attaching the guide that I have made to help myself and others on this project
@Boyd_Goldie
Hi there! First of all, thanks a lot for sharing this. It’s always appreciated when people take the time to contribute practical tools like this. Your checklist is super clear, beginner-friendly, and definitely useful for those getting started with Linux installations on older laptops. Great work!
That said, just a gentle note : this thread (and the forum topic more broadly) is actually focused on a slightly different issue. So while your checklist is great, it’s unfortunately not directly related to the original question or discussion happening here. No worries at all, it’s just to help keep things tidy and relevant for everyone following along.
Now, regarding your checklist specifically, a few friendly thoughts for future improvements or broader use:
Linux Mint Cinnamon is indeed a great choice for Windows users switching to Linux, it’s stable, well-maintained, and the interface is familiar. But it’s worth mentioning that:
As for browsers since you mentioned installing Gmail as a web app (which is great), here are a few lightweight and privacy-respecting alternatives that might work well on older machines:
On my side, I’m actually working on a toolkit for automatically detecting the specs of the target laptop and offering tailored options to either repair or install a compatible OS. Kind of an all-in-one assistant for refurbishing machines for charity use or older.
It includes:
.sh script for use directly on Linux machines:
.CSV or .ODS if needed lol!!! @Monique, if you’re reading, we could link this to your spreadsheet ords.So yes, I love what you’re doing, and your guide definitely has value for beginners!
Just not quite on-topic here, but maybe you could repost it in a dedicated thread for beginners or Linux Mint-specific tips? That way it won’t get lost and people who need exactly that can find it more easily.
Keep up the great work, and don’t hesitate if you want to collaborate or test the tool when it’s ready!
FWIW I have loaded Linux mint Cinnamon onto the following machines without any issues or incompatabilities. I have either wiped the SSD or put in a new one before loading. These laptops are all destined to be given to refugees in need of digital access:
Dell Latitude E7270 i5 8Gb RAM 3 separate laptops
Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Carbon i5 8Gb RAM
HP Elitebook 840 G4 i5 8Gb
HP Elitebook x360 G2 i5 8Gb
I have tested on my own Lenovo Thinkcentre m190q i7 16Gb and it runs. My plan is to swap in a new SSD so all files are then on an external drive and if it goes horribly wrong I can put the original SSD back in place
Just wanted to say - spare a thought for the *BSDs - like Ghost BSD & NomadBSD. For someone transitioning from Windows it may matter little whether they switch to linux or BSD - and GhostBSD may tick all boxes.
Keen to hear about issues with Mint as that’s the distro I reach for first (except for a Macintosh).
Boyd - if you haven’t - take a look at balenaEtcher as an alternative to Rufus. It’s likely to be easier to use for anyone not used working with ISOs - or at least - less daunting.
Also, Rufus is currently only available as a Windows executable afaik, whereas balenaEtcher has downloads for multiple platforms.
Ventoy doesn’t even need to be installed, just unzipped to your local drive. It provides a GUI or can be simply run from cmd line to create a bootable USB drive, then you just copy ISO files to it, as many as will fit. I have 20 ISOs on a 256GB stick.
I’ve been trying them out on nearly 20 rescued laptops.
You can also test drive Linux distros at Distrosea although you don’t get a choice of hardware to run on, but it’s good for checking out interfaces and default apps etc.
I really appreciate the variety of perspective! Tt reinforces how important context and flexibility are when recommending and deploying Linux (or alternatives in general). Let me respond to each of your points:
Thanks a lot for sharing those details. You’re absolutely right but Linux Mint works only great on mid-range+ hardware, especially with SSDs and at least 8GB RAM. The Dell Latitude and Elitebook series are generally very Linux-friendly. In fact, for those specs, Mint Cinnamon is a solid, stable choice, especially when the systems are clean and fresh.
My focus was more on low-spec or aging machines (Core i3, older i5s, celeron, under 4GB RAM, spinning HDDs or old SSDs, weak iGPUs, etc.), which is where Mint starts to struggle a bit. You’re absolutely on point: swapping in a fresh SSD often makes all the difference. The upgrade from an old HDD to even a modest SATA SSD brings machines back to life for around €20–30, and that’s a huge win.
Your approach of preserving the original drive and working with a clean SSD is smart and sustainable, especially for deployments to sensitive communities like refugees. Great work!
Good shout on GhostBSD and NomadBSD! You’re totally right. Great for users coming from Windows, the underlying kernel matters far less than interface familiarity, driver support, and available apps. GhostBSD in particular is surprisingly polished, and the MATE desktop makes for a nice bridge for new users.
BSDs do tend to need a bit more care on the hardware compatibility side, but they’ve come a long way and in some cases they offer a more stable base than some Linux distros.
Also, 100% agree: Mint isn’t bad at all, and I still recommend it frequently… But, just with context. It’s more about not treating it as a universal solution for every machine.
Totally agree on balenaEtcher being cross-platform and that’s a major advantage when working with volunteers on macOS or Linux. I do often still use Rufus for quick tasks on Windows (especially when building ISOs with persistence), but it’s definitely not cross-platform friendly.
Ventoy, though, is the game changer. I use it daily and I’ve built a multiboot key with dozens of distros and repair tools (Rescuezilla, GParted, Boot-Repair, etc.), and I just drop updated ISOs onto it as needed. No formatting, no hassle. Combine that with a script for silent updates and it’s a dream.
Also yes!!! I’ve played around with DistroSea as a quick demo tool. It’s great to show someone the look and feel of a distro without needing to install anything, but of course, it lacks hardware testing espacially which, as we’ve all seen, is often the real bottleneck.
In summary, I think we’re all moving in the same direction: more flexible, context-aware choices, with tools that empower users instead of locking them in. I’m glad we’re having this discussion and sharing real field feedback again… It’s how we improve together.
By the way, I’ve set up a Gitea instance for anyone interested in following or contributing to the project. It’s self-hosted and accessible on request.
Here’s the link: https://git.onedayweb.be
If you’d like access, just reach out and I’ll be happy to create an account for you. Looking forward to building this together!
If there’s interest, I’m happy to share some of my scripts for Ventoy customization, automated ISO syncing, and lightweight post-install setup routines.
“Once it’s properly ready and I’m actually at my desk or then we’re good to go, lol!”
Thanks again to all of you!
I think one thing we mustn’t lose sight of is the goal of this exercise.
The goal could be “provide new life to a laptop” or “move a laptop to Linux”. I suggest the goal is the former, and “move a laptop to Linux” may be a result of that.
However, in order to prevent these devices from becoming paperweights, it’s vital that we match the solution to the user. The device MUST be useable and USED by the customer.
So if the customer is unlikely to use the device once its on Linux (maybe because they don’t understand it, or it doesn’t work with their favourite program, or it doesn’t work with some peripheral they have, or they can’t keep it up to date) then Linux is not the solution for them. This might mean the solution for a customer is pay for Windows 10 support or even to have unsupported Windows 11.
Ensuring, that the solution is right for the customer is key to keeping the device out of recycling.
So whilst I love the enthusiasm around the technicalities of installing Linux/BSD/RiscOS/Solaris/SCO/SunOS/George/VME, there’s a very very important step that comes before that!
The Linux Gotcha List:
Any other Gotchas?
Accessibility is a very good point and not something I have tested for but will do now!
Accessible-Coconut – Linux distro dedicated to accessibility
6 Linux Distros for Visually Impaired People
Linux Mint: How to Enable Visual Accessibility Features
I’ve actually already translated a similar list (in French) and shared it in another forum post (not on restarters). We’ve been using it internally within our group, so I’ve now merged your notes with ours and here’s the result.
I’ll hope it usefull!
Most hardware works fine these days, but always check for:
Tip: Always test hardware compatibility before committing to a switch and especially if the user depends on it daily.
Tip: For document-heavy users, test the full scan-to-PDF pipeline with OCR before rollout.
Tip: Ask what they do, not what they use / then suggest alternatives if they exist.
Tip: Always test that one game they care about and not just “gaming in general”. (double boot with ChimeraOS for gaming and working OS or other gaming distro)
Tip: Provide visual cheat sheets and desktop shortcuts. Consider enabling Flatpak or Snap for simplified app installs.
Tip: Set up automatic background updates where possible (e.g., unattended-upgrades on Ubuntu/Debian), and explain how updates work. Silent update and upgrade.
Tip: Plan for support after the install:
Tip: Stick to mainstream distros and DEs unless the user specifically asks. Document everything you change.
Tip: Before switching, back up the Windows system (full image), or dual-boot if space allows. Freedom includes the freedom to backtrack.
Tip: Teach empowerment. Explain that they own the system, and can learn at their pace. It’s okay not to be an expert.
There’s also the possibility of copying the Winux theme and making it compatible with all Linux versions, depending on the desktop environment… but I really feel sorry for the person who has to do it, haha!
For my purposes, the aim is to provide a working device for basic uses. As Mint comes with Firefox and Libreoffice that is two boxes ticked. I have been adding gmail and wondered about VLC and YouTube to get them started, I do make sure that I change the default for LibreOffice to save documents as *.docx to try and avoid compatability issues. And yes I know that Google Docs can be used but *.docx is pretty ubiquitous
Boyd
Like I said before, That’s a solid approach, @Boyd_Goldie ! Getting people started with Firefox and LibreOffice already covers a huge part of most basic use cases.
As for document compatibility: you’re absolutely right to switch LibreOffice’s default to .docx… It helps avoid confusion when users send files to others using Microsoft Office. That said, just as a heads-up: ODS, ODT, and other OpenDocument formats are also fully supported by Gmail and Office (both online and desktop versions can open them just fine these days). But .docx definitely remains the “safe default” for sharing.
VLC is a great addition too, lightweight, universal, and it just works. Don’t forget to add the repository for larger codec support. Like HXXX, WEBX and NVC, APNG, etc. And for YouTube, installing a privacy-friendly front-end like FreeTube or using extensions like uBlock can offer a smoother experience, especially on older hardware.
Don’t forget to check out this document shared by @Monique . It gives a great overview of cases where Linux Mint didn’t perform well on certain types of devices.
It really helps illustrate how, on older or low-spec machines, Mint can sometimes be too heavy, even with a clean install. The same testing process applied to other distributions can give very different results lighter distros like MX Linux, Bodhi, or AntiX often handle those systems much better.
Worth a look if you’re trying to match the right distro to the right hardware!
At the end of the day, we’re here to share knowledge and offer guidance. Isn’t the whole point of these events to help people learn and become more self-sufficient? 
I’m preparing a quick guide to de-Googling using rClone Browser, an rclone GUI that comes with Mint Linux, and a few others, afair. I used to be a paying subscriber to Google Drive and had hundreds of spreadsheets, documents and presentations on it, also had the Drive local sync software installed - but it is Windows only and the reason I dual booted for a long time. I wanted to get them out of Drive for ages but the scope of the task was depressing and I never found the time to make scripts to do it.
Anyway, I found rClone Browser and it beats Google’s wretched G drive partition and their old Backup and Sync by far - neither of these converted the files to store locally, they merely made links to them in Drive. Using rClone browser I was able to mount Drive and create custom tasks to convert and download the files. Once I’d figured out how to use it (didn’t take too long), set up my tasks and test them, it took less than an hour to convert and download hundreds of files to the folders I selected, and with my chosen file extensions (ods, odt etc). I then cleaned out my remote Drive, stopped paying for premium storage and I actually own my files again!
Yes I know that you can do it all from the command line but this way is mega convenient, plus it connects to dozens of different remote servers, and I’ve only scratched the surface of its functionality. Recommend getting a little familiar, it could prove really useful for some users.
rClone… wow!
Thank you so much, @Monique
I’ve been looking for something like this for at least six months! I don’t know this!!!
Until now, I was creating symlinks to remote directories using tools like Mountain Duck (Owncloud + Cryptomator) or other paid Linux software, just to get remote sync (push & pull) and offline access to my files.
This looks like exactly what I needed and it’s free. Can’t wait to test it out! Great
Would one of you be willing to share a list of the Linux distributions you use and recommend most often, sorted by:
Low spec – Medium spec – High spec LINUX (for laptops roughly between 2004 and 2021)
I’d love to see what you all lean towards depending on the hardware and especially for community refurbishing projects or Repair Café setups!
That way, I can generate an auto-updated JSON/CSV list based on your answers and integrate it directly into the toolkit we’re building.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Where can I get some Ventoy support. I downloaded and then ran the installer plus update to get
Seems not exactly plug & play and not as simple (for me) as making a stick with Rufus. I think I will stick with what I know. Thanks
@Boyd_Goldie I have some time tomorrow afternoon for Ventoy if you want… However, I’m in Belgium. I don’t know if that fits your time zone or if it would be evening for you, so I’ll check if it’s within my available hours.
