I have a mini PC that only has a mouse and display, and I want to install a lightweight Linux distribution without needing a keyboard for the installation process. I have both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, and my goal is straightforward: I just want to transfer some data to it and access it via Tailscale. I've tried Ubuntu Server, but the keyboard-less setup was quite challenging. I'm looking for a simple and fast solution for a fully automated headless Linux installation, preferably using a USB stick with an ISO that can run the installation without manual input. Ideally, I'd like to be able to log in via SSH before the installation starts or have the installation preconfigured to pull settings automatically. Any suggestions for a lightweight and easy headless Linux setup?
3 Answers
You might want to check out the FAI Project. It offers tools for fully automated installations. Should help you a lot in your case!
I run a headless server on my mini PC too, and I manage everything remotely with SSH from my Windows machine. It works well for me—just make sure you set it up right. But I get that you want an automatic install, and that can be tricky! You may need to create an install script that runs from the USB stick during boot to handle everything without a keyboard.
Debian is also a great option that allows for a myriad of automated installs. You can do a super lightweight install, and it might be what you're looking for.
Exactly! Auto-installation needs some prep work, doesn’t it? Just using SSH afterward won't cut it for the initial setup.