Upgrade your slow Windows laptop to run Linux.
Upgrade your slow Windows laptop to run Linux.
Previously, I bought an affordable Windows 11 home laptop. It comes from HP with mediocre specifications. The system runs at 1366x768 resolution, Intel Celeron N4120 processor, 4 GB RAM, and includes Intel UHD Graphics 600. When opening Chrome tabs, it feels extremely sluggish. I purchased it because I needed a budget machine for additional tasks. However, if you plan to use it as an entertainment device—like browsing the web or streaming—it will likely perform poorly. Now I’m considering replacing it with a new Chromebook due to outdated updates, screen and keyboard problems. But what about converting this slow Windows 11 HP laptop into Linux? Would that be feasible? Could I always switch back to Windows 11 Home later? My intention is mainly for casual use—web browsing, forums, streaming—but sometimes I encounter malware or viruses. I’ve never faced such issues with my old Chromebook, which was rarely used for anything serious. Should I invest in a new Chromebook for these purposes, or should I try to adapt this Windows 11 machine into Linux? Now I’m thinking about downloading videos and files, possibly storing them on an external drive. Is it safe to run Linux on this system? Because with my old Chromebook, I didn’t worry about that. Also, I know I could always perform a factory reset on the Chromebook if needed. With a similar processor and 4 GB RAM, the slow Windows laptop might still function in Linux, though performance could vary. Would you recommend proceeding with that conversion, or would a fresh Chromebook be more suitable for your needs?
You might also consider converting the gadget to a Chromebook: https://chromeenterprise.google/os/chromeosflex/
It relates to how the system handles updates and software interactions. A 32-bit OS/CPU affects compatibility with security patches and browser functionality.
The system has limited memory and storage performance is likely slow. Consider replacing the RAM first if it’s soldered. A fresh Windows installation from Microsoft’s image might work better. Many manufacturers add unnecessary software to cheap laptops, so a clean install could help. ChromeOS Flex is another option. Any heavy desktop Linux distro will feel as resource-heavy as a standard Windows 11 setup. This processor is a 64-bit model released in 2019, and there’s no 32-bit version available.
Current systems and programs are no longer compatible with older 32-bit architectures. Most applications now require 64-bit support. ...I wasn't aware a 64-bit Celeron or Atom existed. But I'm familiar with older Pentium 2-4 chips being reduced versions of those processors.
It certainly is a 64 bit CPU. Personally I'd put Linux Mint Cinnamon on it and it would be "good to go". As the CPU was released in 2019, it would be one of the more modern laptops I've done an installation on. I have, sitting waiting for an SSD to turn up tomorrow and have Linux Mint installed, an old HP Compaq 6730c and a release date 2008. Now that tends to be old. I don't know why the talk of Chromebook when that laptop would be a good one with a properly set up Linux installation. If it can run Windows 11, it should fly with Linux and have everything needed to make it useful by default without buying any extra software which you would have to with Windows.
Linux is secure for you. It won’t work well on Windows because of the higher risk of viruses. What you’re asking about is exactly what I do regularly—checking and downloading music videos, browsing info sites, etc. External storage is fine and safe. No viruses are present that target Linux systems. If you use Mint, it comes with Firefox by default; you can install Chrome if needed. It includes a basic office suite, LibreOffice (free), and is more capable than paid Microsoft Office. There’s a video player there, and you can install VLC or other apps as desired. For privacy, consider using Tor as your browser—it won’t get infected by malware or viruses.
I plan to use this device for downloading adult content and saving it to my laptop. Afterward, I’ll move these files to an external hard drive I already own, which I use for storing videos and pictures. I’m using the same external drive with my current Chromebook, so I won’t connect it to my main laptop. I also watch adult videos through streaming services, which often contain viruses, so I prefer a separate machine for this purpose. This setup avoids any financial transactions on my primary device. I’m not using it for any financial activities, which is why I stick with a Chromebook. However, since my current Chromebook needs replacement due to screen issues and no more updates, using an older Windows 11 laptop is fine for this task. You’re suggesting I run Linux—this is perfectly safe. I won’t be handling money-related tasks on the same laptop, which is why I choose a Chromebook. But since my Chromebook’s screen is outdated and won’t receive updates, using Linux with an older Windows machine works well. The HP laptop you mentioned is the one I currently have. Would you recommend using this setup for Linux? Any concerns about opening many Chrome tabs? The main drawback I have is the screen resolution is very low at 1366x768. If it can handle many Chrome tabs quickly, I probably won’t need a new Chromebook. I’ve always found Chromebooks to be simpler.
You asked about downloading Linux onto a USB flash drive and installing it on this laptop. Yes, you’d need a USB drive for that process. The time required depends on the size of the Linux installation, but it should be manageable. Formatting the Linux machine is straightforward and usually takes a few minutes. Overall, this setup should meet your needs for entertainment and content consumption.
First, it doesn't appear to be old. As mentioned, as far as I'm concerned old is 10 years or more. Common installations I do are on 5 year old laptops. The two laptops we commonly use are only 8 years old. Chrome tabs? What do mean by that? Do you mean browser tabs in what ever web browser you are using? If so with 4GB there can be a limit but I see Chromebooks with only 2GB so it should be better. The laptop? HP 14" Intel Celeron, 4gb memory 64gb-emmc - no model number there. Downloading the iso file should be quick. You then need to burn the iso file to a USB stick. NOTE - not "copy" it, burn it. Use something like Rufus for that on Windows. You will need to go into the BIOS and probably switch OFF Fast Boot, Secure Boot and set it to Legacy. you will also need to make the stick the first item to be looked at, before the hard disk. It usually takes me about 8 minutes to install from the stick. When setting it up you can set it without needing a password on boot-up, tick the wee box below where the password for the system is entered. Also go and switch off password on Screensave if so desired after it is all installed. After that updates, possibly another 6 - 8 minutes, .... another cup of coffee. I bring up Text Editor and put in in the Panel (Task Bar) and write the password in that and save. You do need the password if installing any apps. I'd suggest for what you are doing to install Tor from their website. There is a very good and helpful discussion forum for Linux Mint. Message me if you run into problems. I should have another installation to do today when the SSD for the old HP is dropped off to me.