How can I turn my old iMac into a Linux backup server and secondary monitor?
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TechnoNerd92
Hey folks! I've got an old 20-inch iMac from around 2008 or 2009, and I'm looking to breathe some new life into it. I'm considering installing Debian to create a home for backups, possibly using Nextcloud or Syncthing, especially since I dual-boot with Windows on my laptop. Additionally, I want to use it as a secondary monitor for both systems. I can connect it with HDMI cables or the iMac's display port. Does anyone have any tips on how to set this up?
Answers
You might want to check out r/linux_on_mac; there's a good chance someone there has worked on a similar project. You can definitely use it as a 'smart monitor' with a KVM switch software like Barrier, which is cross-platform and available in the Debian repo for a simple install. Plus, since your iMac is x86 architecture, installing Debian shouldn’t be a hassle. You could even try it out with a LIVE-USB first!
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CuriousCat01: But wouldn’t that still mean they're two separate machines? How does Barrier work without a direct connection? I’m hoping to manage backups and files easily. Is there a way to set up a virtual desktop from the first machine to the second using HDMI, Apple DisplayPort or USB for faster access compared to WiFi?