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Grml 2024.12 ''Adventgrenze'' drops x86 support and welcomes 64-bit ARM CPUs

Grml 2024.12 fluxbox desktop (Image source: Grml.org)
Grml 2024.12 ''Adventgrenze'' fluxbox desktop (Image source: Grml.org)
Grml, an Austrian Linux distribution based on Debian, has returned with version 2024.12. While it drops x86 support, this update is the first to bring this minimal, live Linux distro to 64-bit ARM hardware. In addition to these, Grml 2024.12 also comes with fresh Debian 13 software packages alongside many minor tweaks and fixes.

With a history of over two decades, Grml is one of the oldest Debian-based live distros which are still active. Built on Debian 13, the Grml 2024.12 update is the first release to support 64-bit ARM CPUs. On the other hand, it drops support for 32-bit x86 PCs. Obviously, these are not the only changes in store.

In addition to the highlights mentioned above, Grml 2024.12 also comes with the following:

  • UEFI 32-bit boot is supported on the amd64 flavor.
  • A new visual theme within the GRUB bootloader for UEFI boot.
  • Linux kernel 6.11.
  • Several bug fixes that have been detailed in the issue tracker.
  • The package lists for the current release can be found on this page.

Since this distro hails from Austria, it shouldn't be surprising that the "Adventgrenze" codename of Grml's latest update is based on the local culture. In this case, the Adventkränze, which is the local term used for Advent wreaths. Adventgrenze is pronounced similarly and was chosen to make life easier for English speakers.

While designed as a lightweight live distro, Grml can be run as a desktop OS as well thanks to its persistency capabilities. Although it packs multiple GUI apps, including Mozilla Firefox, it focuses on providing tools for sysadmins who would use the command line most of the time. The downloads can be initiated from this page.

Debian users, including those of most Debian-based distros currently in the wild, might want to check out Debian Security Essentials. This comprehensive guide is available for free with Kindle Unlimited and $5.90 to buy in Kindle format, as well as in paperback form, in which case the price is $18.90.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 12 > Grml 2024.12 ''Adventgrenze'' drops x86 support and welcomes 64-bit ARM CPUs
Codrut Nistor, 2024-12-20 (Update: 2024-12-21)