Linux Format

Linux Format is your complete guide to the world of Linux. Whether you've just discovered Linux, or you're a full-time guru, Linux Format has everything you need to make the most of your OS. The editorial formula is a mix of features, reviews and practical tutorials that tackle topics as far ranging as installing software to socket programming and network management. Thought-provoking features and interviews also provide a focus on key technologies, trends and issues in the fast-paced world of Free and Open Source software.

LINUX FORMAT • We’re kicking off 2023 with a selection of hot Pi projects – what maker builds or new open source ventures would you recommend for readers to try this year?

Build the future

Newsdesk • THIS ISSUE: CPU support » Rust »Linux on Apple » AMD ray tracing » Thunderbird for Android » RGB lighting

TURN TO RUST

EXPERT ADVICE

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Distro watch

BYE, 2022!

Kernel Watch • Jon Masters keeps an eye out for all the latest happenings in the Linux kernel, so you don’t have to.

ONGOING DEVELOPMENT

Answers • Got a burning question about open source or the kernel? Whatever your level, email it to answers@linuxformat.com

Mailserver

LETTER OF THE MONTH

Wix • Shashank Sharma takes the feature-rich site builder for a test drive.

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X • A beastly “budget” gaming CPU that Christian Guyton has found has one big temporary drawback.

WattOS R12 • Nate Drake explores how WattOS can bring your ancient hardware to life with this zippy, if spartan Linux distro.

Kali Linux 2022.4 • If you exist in the grey twilight between good and evil, and want to look cool while doing it, David Rutland has just the distro for you.

Nitrux 2.5.1 • An impressive beginner distro that’s well worth your time, even if you spend most of it tweaking the settings, says Mayank Sharma.

Victoria 3 • “The peasants are revolting,” cries The Management, but really it’s just Jonathan Bolding serving up their afternoon tea and biscuits.

Roundup • Element 1.11.14 » Cinny 2.2.2 » Mirage 0.7.2 » NeoChat 223.09 » Fractal 4.4.0

Ease of installation • Most applications offer multiple package formats for installation.

Look and feel

Logging in and getting started • Having conversations on Matrix is open until you set up your own groups.

Community and status

How are they made? • Language and framework make a long-term difference.

Encryption options • Look out for ways to protect privacy.

Frequency of updates • To use it, you need updates.

The Verdict

ALSO CONSIDER

Hot Pi projects • Dig in to our New Year smorgasbord of hot Pi projects, from Pico devices running MicroPython to full-Pi setups, with expert guidance from Les Pounder and Matt Holder.

I like to make it, make it • Welcome to the maker revolution – but first, get your Pi up to speed.

OVERCLOCK YOUR Pi

Play retro games • Defend the universe, save the princess, win the race and all without spending a 10-pence piece!

Make a media centre • Settle down with your own open source media centre and watch the latest blockbusters with a side of Pi and popcorn.

Build a Wi-Fi router • Create a Raspberry Pi-based Wi-Fi router as a secure option for use around the home.

Track and scan planes • Use your Raspberry Pi to track aircraft or detect local devices to keep an eye on all kinds of data.

Master the Pi Pico GPIO • Get to grips with the Raspberry Pi Pico’s GPIO to open the gateway to a range of simple projects.

Convert currency • Work with remote data using an API and the Pi Pico W to make a live currency converter.

Build a...