A. Linux 32-bit with Graphical ISO image
List Of 32-Bit Linux Distro Available In 2022 – Linux has now become an alternative operating system compared with Windows made by Microsoft. In addition to Open Source, Linux is also could be very fast in running software if compared with the Windows operating system which sometimes gets error-like crashes and does not respond to blue screens.
If you have an old PC or laptop that still uses a 32-bit architecture system, you are on the right page. The following is a list of Linux distros that still support 32-bit architecture where this architecture is very much used by outdated PCs.
Here I will share a list of Linux distros that support 32 Bit architecture.
1. AntiX 22
antiX is a lightweight and fast Linux distribution that is based on Debian. It is designed to run on old and low-specification computers, and it includes a range of desktop environments, including Fluxbox, IceWM, JWM, and others. The distribution is developed by a small team of volunteers and is known for its simplicity and ease of use.
antiX is designed to be a lightweight and fast Linux distribution, with a minimal set of pre-installed software. It also includes a range of tools and utilities for system administration and customization, including a package manager, a system backup and restores tool, and tools for configuring the system’s network and firewall settings.
One of the unique features of antiX is its use of the “sysvinit” system initialization process, which is known for its simplicity and reliability. This can make antiX a good choice for users who want a lightweight and reliable Linux distribution that is easy to use and customize.
antiX is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a lightweight and fast Linux distribution that is easy to use and runs well on older or low-specification hardware. However, it may not be the best choice for users who need a large set of pre-installed software or the latest versions of software packages.
AntiX Linux Minimum Requirements
- Processor Intel-AMD x86
- 256MB of RAM
- 5 GB hard disk size
2. Debian
Debian is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is known for its stability, reliability, and security. It was first released in 1993 and is developed by a large community of volunteers from around the world.
Debian includes a wide range of software packages, including desktop environments, office productivity software, multimedia players, web browsers, and more. It also includes a powerful package management system, which makes it easy to install, upgrade, and remove software packages. This package management system is one of the key features of Debian, and it provides a high degree of control over the software installed on the system.
Debian is also known for its focus on stability and security. The distribution is designed to be as stable and reliable as possible, with regular updates and patches to keep the system secure. This can make Debian a good choice for users who need a reliable and secure operating system.
Debian is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and it supports a range of desktop environments, including GNOME, KDE, Xfce, and others. It is also known for its strong focus on open-source software, and it includes only free and open source software by default.
Debian is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a stable, reliable, and secure Linux distribution with a large set of software packages and a powerful package management system. However, it may not be the best choice for users who need the latest versions of software packages or who need a distribution with a smaller footprint or faster release cycle.
Debian Minimum Requirements:
- Pentium 4 (1GHz)
- 256MB RAM
- Hard Drive 2GB
To download Debian, there are several types of files provided like small installation image (netinst.iso), cloud image, and complete installation image.
I suggest for those of you who are new to using Debian download the 32-bit DVD version (complete installation image) because in it there is already a DE option available.
3. Devuan
Devuan is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is known for its focus on providing a Debian-compatible operating system without the systemd init system. It was first released in 2017 and is maintained by a community of volunteers.
Devuan is designed to provide a stable, reliable, and secure Linux distribution that is compatible with Debian, but without the systemd init system. Instead, it uses the SysVinit system initialization process, which is known for its simplicity and reliability. This can make Devuan a good choice for users who prefer a Linux distribution without systemd or who require compatibility with older or custom-built software.
Devuan includes a wide range of software packages, including desktop environments, office productivity software, multimedia players, web browsers, and more. It also includes a powerful package management system, which makes it easy to install, upgrade, and remove software packages.
Devuan is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and it supports a range of desktop environments, including Xfce, KDE, and LXQt. It is also known for its strong focus on free and open-source software, and it includes only free and open source software by default.
Devuan is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a stable, reliable, and secure Linux distribution that is compatible with Debian, but without the systemd init system. However, it may not be the best choice for users who need the latest versions of software packages or who require a Linux distribution with a faster release cycle.
If you want to try this 32-bit devuan Linux, you can use the download button below.
4. Peppermint OS
Peppermint OS is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is designed to be fast, lightweight, and easy to use. It was first released in 2010 and is based on the Ubuntu operating system.
Peppermint OS includes a range of desktop environments, including Xfce and LXDE, and it uses the Openbox window manager. This gives the distribution a lightweight and minimalistic feel, while still providing a full-featured desktop environment with a range of applications and tools.
One of the key features of Peppermint OS is its use of cloud-based services and applications. The distribution includes a range of cloud-based tools, such as Dropbox, and Google Drive, and web-based applications like Gmail and Google Calendar. This can make Peppermint OS a good choice for users who rely heavily on cloud-based services and storage.
Peppermint OS also includes a range of software packages, including office productivity software, multimedia players, web browsers, and more. It also includes a package management system, which makes it easy to install, upgrade, and remove software packages.
Peppermint OS is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and it is designed to be easy to install and use. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a fast and lightweight Linux distribution that provides a range of cloud-based tools and services. However, it may not be the best choice for users who need a Linux distribution with a specific desktop environment or who require a large set of pre-installed software.
Peppermint OS Minimum Requirements:
- 1 GB of RAM
- Processor based on Intel x86 architecture
- Hard Drive 10GB
5. Linux Mint LMDE 5
LMDE stands for “Linux Mint Debian Edition”. This distro is created by the Linux Mint team with the aim of being able to replace ubuntu if ubuntu is no longer developed.
It’s been a long time, since Linux Mint is a derivative of Ubuntu. However, LMDE was created directly from Debian, where the base package is provided directly from Debian although it still uses a Linux Mint-like appearance in general.
LMDE is only available on the Cinnamon Desktop Environment Right Now.
Linux Mint LMDE 5 Minimum Requirements:
- 2GB RAM
- Hard Drive 20GB
Download Linux Mint LMDE 32-bit
6. MX Linux
MX Linux is a derivative of the Ubuntu Distro. One of the derivatives of Ubuntu is included in the lightweight Linux distribution. In accordance with the desktop environment they use, XFCE, KDE, and Fluxbox, making this OS can run lightly even on old computers.
Until now they also still support 32-bit Linux. If you are still using an old computer, this could be the right choice. The minimum hardware required is as follows.
Lubuntu Minimum Requirements:
- Modern i686 Intel or AMD processor
- 1GB RAM
- Hard Drive 6GB
- Download MX Linux 32-bit
7. Zorin OS Lite
Zorin OS Lite is one of the Linux distro choices for 32-bit. I have tried this distro and I admit that this Zorin OS Lite Linux runs very well on my old laptop.
There are several variants of Zorin OS such as Zorin OS Pro, Core, and Education which use the GNOME Desktop Environment, and Zorin OS Lite which uses XCFE. Nonetheless, the Lite version is very smooth to use on older laptops.
Zorin OS Lite Minimum Requirements:
- Intel/AMD Single Core 1 GHz
- 1GB of RAM
- 10GB of available disk space
8. Mageia
Mageia is a community-based Linux distribution that was first released in 2011. It is a fork of Mandriva Linux and is developed by a non-profit organization called Mageia.org. The distribution aims to provide a stable, secure, and user-friendly computing experience for both desktop and server users.
Some key features of Mageia Linux include:
- A choice of desktop environments, including KDE, GNOME, XFCE, LXQt, and Cinnamon
- Support for a wide range of hardware, including both 32-bit and 64-bit systems
- A large and active community of developers and users, who contribute to the development of the distribution
- A comprehensive package manager (urpmi) that allows users to easily install, update, and remove software packages
- A focus on security, with regular security updates and patches
Mageia Linux is a free and open-source operating system, and it can be downloaded from the Mageia website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a stable and reliable Linux distribution that is easy to use and comes with a wide range of software packages.
Mageia Minimum Requirements:
- Processor: any AMD, Intel, or VIA
- 512MB of RAM
- 5GB of available disk space
9. OpenSUSE
OpenSUSE is one of the oldest Linux distributions, born in the 1990s in Germany. Since Linux version 5.0, openSUSE adopted the RPM format from Red Hat which previously used YaST.
As of the release of this article, the version of OpenSUSE is 15.3. There are two sources that are owned, namely Tumbleweed and Leap. The difference is that OpenSUSE Leap releases the latest versions in specified years similar to Ubuntu. While Tumbleweed is a rolling version like Arch Linux.
For the 32-bit version, based on the OpenSUSE download site is only available for the Rolling version, Tumbleweed.
OpenSUSE Minimum Requirements:
- 2 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 2GB of RAM
- Over 40GB of available disk space
Download OpenSUSE 32-bit (Rolling Version)
10. Bodhi
Bodhi Linux 32-bit is Linux based on Ubuntu 18.04 with Non-PAE architecture. PAE (Physical Address Extension) is a memory management feature for the x86 architecture.
There are 3 types of ISO images provided by Bodhi, Standard, HWE, and AppPack. The difference is that ISO Image Standard is intended for desktop and workstation computers, HWE is for desktops and workstations with the latest hardware, and AppPack is an ISO version that comes with applications.
You can read the full differences here.
Bodhi Linux Minimum Requirements:
- 32bit, 500MHz (Non-PAE) processor
- 512MB of RAM
- 5GB of drive space
11. Emmabuntus DE4
Emmabuntüs is a Linux distribution that is based on Xubuntu and designed to be easy to use and install for beginners. It was first released in 2011 and is developed by a team of volunteers based in France. The distribution is named after Emma, a girl from a rural village in Cameroon, and “Buntu,” which means “humanity” in the African language of Zulu.
Emmabuntüs is built on top of Xubuntu and features a lightweight and customizable Xfce desktop environment. The distribution is designed to be easy to install, with a simple graphical installer that guides users through the process. It also includes a wide range of pre-installed software, including web browsers, email clients, multimedia players, office productivity software, and more.
One of the unique features of Emmabuntüs is its focus on the reuse and refurbishing of older computers. The distribution includes tools that can help users easily donate their old computers to non-profit organizations, schools, and other groups that can put them to good use. It also includes tools for maintaining and optimizing older hardware, such as a lightweight desktop environment and a low-resource system monitor.
Emmabuntüs is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a user-friendly and lightweight Linux distribution that is focused on reuse and making a positive impact in the world.
Emmabuntus DE4 Linux Minimum Requirements
- Processor Intel or AMD (from 1.4 GHz)
- 512 MB minimum, 1 GB recommended (1 GB minimum in Live mode for the Emmabuntüs 2) of RAM
- 20 GB minimum of disk space
12. Sparky Linux
SparkyLinux is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Debian. It was first released in 2011 and is developed by a small team of volunteers. The distribution is designed to be fast, lightweight, and customizable, and it is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
SparkyLinux includes a range of desktop environments to choose from, including LXQt, Xfce, MATE, and KDE Plasma. It also includes a variety of pre-installed applications, including web browsers, email clients, multimedia players, and office productivity software.
One of the unique features of SparkyLinux is its “rolling release” model. This means that instead of releasing new versions of the distribution every few months, it is constantly updated with the latest packages and software. This can be a good choice for users who want to stay up-to-date with the latest software without having to reinstall their operating system.
SparkyLinux also includes a range of tools for system administration and customization, including a system backup and restore tool, a package manager, and a tool for creating custom Live USB drives.
SparkyLinux is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a fast, lightweight, and customizable Linux distribution that is updated frequently with the latest software.
Sparky Linux Minimum Requirements
- Processor i686 (32bit) or amd64 (64bit) Pentium 4, or AMD Athlon
- 128 MB for CLI Edition, 256 MB for LXDE, LXQt, Openbox and 512 MB for Xfce of RAM
- 2 GB for CLI edition, 10 GB for Home editions, and 20 GB for GameOver/Multimedia disk space.
13. TinyCore
TinyCore is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is designed to be extremely small, lightweight, and flexible. It was first released in 2008 and is based on the Linux kernel.
TinyCore is known for its small size and minimalist design. The distribution includes only a basic set of software packages, and additional packages can be added as needed using the project’s package manager. This can make TinyCore a good choice for users who require a very small operating system, or who need a flexible Linux distribution that can be customized to meet specific requirements.
One of the key features of TinyCore is its use of a modular system design. The distribution includes a set of core components, such as the Linux kernel, the BusyBox toolkit, and the Tiny X Window System, which can be combined with additional modules to provide a complete operating system. This modular design makes it easy to create custom versions of TinyCore that include only the components that are needed for a particular use case.
TinyCore is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and it can be run from a live CD or USB drive. It is also designed to be easy to install on a hard drive or another storage device.
TinyCore is a good choice for users who need a very small and flexible Linux distribution that can be customized to meet specific requirements. However, it may not be the best choice for users who require a large set of pre-installed software, or who are not comfortable with the modular system design.
TinyCore Linux Minimum Requirements
- 48 megabytes of RAM
Attention! Before you download this Linux, make sure you have knowledge or are familiar with Linux systems before.
This distro by default not intended for new users and you may be confused by it because the tiny core provided is a minimal system. So you must already understand the Linux system such as modification of partitions, how to use folders, how to install new packages, etc.
if you want to see how to install and do it on your PC, I suggest you watch the installation video here before you do the installation on your PC.
14. Slackware
Slackware is one of the oldest and most established Linux distributions, first released in 1993 by Patrick Volkerding. It is known for its simplicity, stability, and adherence to the UNIX philosophy of “do one thing and do it well.” Slackware is developed by a small group of volunteers and is designed to be a minimal and customizable Linux distribution.
One of the defining features of Slackware is its package management system, which uses simple, plain-text files to manage software packages. This system allows users to easily install, upgrade, and remove software packages, and it provides a high degree of control over the software installed on the system.
Slackware is also known for its focus on simplicity and stability. The distribution includes a minimal set of software packages by default, and users can customize their installation to include only the software they need. This can make Slackware a good choice for users who want a minimalist and stable Linux distribution.
Slackware is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and it supports a range of desktop environments, including Xfce, KDE, and MATE. It is also known for its strong focus on security and stability, with regular updates and patches to keep the system secure.
Slackware is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for users who are looking for a minimalist and stable Linux distribution that provides a high degree of control over the software installed on the system. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or users who need a large set of pre-installed software.
If you are interested in trying it, please use the following button to go to the Slackware 14 download page.
15. Kali Linux
Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution that is specifically designed for penetration testing and digital forensics. It was first released in 2013 and is developed and maintained by Offensive Security, a cybersecurity training and consulting company.
Kali Linux includes a range of tools and software packages that are specifically designed for penetration testing and digital forensics. These tools include network analyzers, vulnerability scanners, password crackers, wireless hacking tools, and more. It also includes a custom kernel that includes support for a wide range of hardware, and it supports a variety of desktop environments, including GNOME, KDE, Xfce, and others.
One of the key features of Kali Linux is its focus on security. The distribution is designed to be as secure as possible, with regular updates and patches to keep the system secure. It also includes a range of security tools and features, including full-disk encryption, strong password policies, and secure boot.
Kali Linux is a free and open-source operating system that can be downloaded from the project’s website. It is a good choice for cybersecurity professionals, security researchers, and others who need a powerful and customizable Linux distribution for penetration testing and digital forensics. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or users who do not need the specialized tools and features provided by the distribution.
Kali Linux 2022 Minimum Requirements
- 2GB of RAM
- 20 GB hard disk size
If you know other than the above distro available 32 bit, please comment below. Hopefully this linux 32bit 2022 article is useful.
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B. Linux 32-bit with Installer From The Console
1. Debian
Debian also still includes a minimal installation CD version, but if you want to install additional software such as DE for example, you need an internet connection (network installation).
Make sure you understand and are familiar with console commands to use this minimal version of Debian.
If you are not familiar with the console, I suggest you to use the version of the Graphical User Interface which you can see at the beginning of this article.
To download a minimum 32-bit Debian installation, you can use the download button below:
Download Debian 32-bit Minimal Installation
2. NixOS
If you are familiar with Linux systems that use consoles, you can try Nix OS. 32 bit too. As of this writing, the available version for 32-bit nixOS is 22.05.
They provide Minimum ISO image for 32-bit architectural systems. So the small ISO size is less than 800mb and does not contain a graphical user interface. So, You must run the installer from the console.
To download a NixOS 32-bit installation, you can use the download button below:
May be you like:
Do you love Unity Graphical Interface? Ubuntu Unity is still alive. It’s available in Ubuntu 22.04 right now. To download it please read here.
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Puppy Linux could belong on this list.
Slackware -the oldest and best.
Hi David,
You are right, I have missed it.
I have added it to the list above, thank you.
Slackware 15 is offered in 32-bit version as well.
You are my inhalation, I possess few blogs and often run out from to brand.