content:en_us:kb_howtos_clearos_on_a_laptop

ClearOS on a Laptop

ClearOS is typically run on a server or dedicated hardware like a ClearBOX. However, you can also run it on a standard laptop.

If you don't have a CD/DVD drive, see ClearOS USB installer.

Pros

  • A laptop has a built-in UPS!
  • Easy to move around
  • Built-in keyboard & screen

Cons

  • Laptops are not designed for years of 24/7 operation so they can overheat.
  • Only one RJ-45 network interface (Use this one to connect to your modem)
  • ClearOS may have trouble detecting some of your devices, especially if the laptop is quite recent

Unless you use ClearOS only as a server (and not as a gateway), you will likely need a second (or even third) network interface. Since laptops typically have only one NIC, you should purchase a USB-NIC. See USB Network Cards.

If you are installing at home, you should configure your router to make the ClearOS instance be in the “DMZ”. Of even better, transform your ClearOS instance into a wireless access point

Tips

  • Try CentOS live on your system to check if
    • If it's 32 or 64 bits (so you know which ISO to download)
    • If you network card and wifi is detected. You really need a network card.

Related links

content/en_us/kb_howtos_clearos_on_a_laptop.txt · Last modified: 2015/03/02 00:14 (external edit)