USB-thumbdrive for older computers

[Gerregerbil]

Hi there,

I'm looking for a lightweight linux distro that will fit on a USB-drive and will keep any data/programs installed on it. What distro do you recommend? I've heard about DSL, Slitaz and Puppy linux. Are those good?
I have Ubuntu installed right now and i'm not very tech-savvy, so are there some easy tools to create a persistent lightweight Live-USB?
Are there any requirements for the USB-stick? (apart from the size, ofcourse :P )

I've also heard that some older computers (like the ones on my school :P ) can't boot from USB and need a CD to boot from, is this true and can a Live-cd be made persistent?

Thanks for your help,
Gerregerbil

[oz]

Welcome to the forums!

I've never done what you are wanting to do, but take a look here for lots of info on putting distros on usb flash drives:

Boot and run Linux from a USB flash memory stick | USB Pen Drive Linux

Hope it helps!

[reed9]

It's true that older computers may not be able to boot from a USB drive, and it is possible to have a persistent live CD. The settings can be stored on your harddrive or on an external storage device.

Here is some info on making a persistent Ubuntu live cd, for example.
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/LiveCD/Persistence

Of the three lightweight distros you mentioned, Puppy is probably the most complete desktop out of the box, and the easiest for a new person. But I recommend trying them all, if you're able. I'd throw in the option of TinyCore Linux as well.
Welcome to Tiny Core Linux
Tiny Core: The Little Distro That Could | Linux Magazine