Top operating system for a home theater computer.
Top operating system for a home theater computer.
I'm working on an HTPC build using older components and trying to keep costs low. The system is based on an old machine, but it doesn't need high performance. You're considering Windows 7—would it be worth it, or should you opt for Linux instead? The specs are: CPU - Pentium 4, RAM - 512MB DDR2, HDD - 160GB, GPU - integrated, and a few other parts from the past.
XBMC for Ubuntu is available at the provided link and supports remote control.
Need Netflix without issues? You can use xbmc versions for Windows to get it working smoothly.
XBMCbuntu functions well. A standard Ubuntu version would also be suitable. Windows 7 could be a viable choice, though it might be too heavy for your system. Windows XP might be an option if you prioritize online access and security isn't critical. It's a relatively simple OS compared to modern requirements, and it has a solid track record. Android-based PC configurations could also meet your needs. Try different setups and see what suits you best.
Windows if you prefer not to struggle (could slow down) XBMC on Ubuntu if you're handy (lightweight so it performs better on your system)
Are there any operating systems that support running Netfix, Google Play, and Google Music while allowing remote control? I understand this is similar to Chromecast, but it might sound a bit odd; I’m after a setup with a wired internet connection and file browsing features.