[Hidden-tech] Computer for kids - how to convert

[Sam McClellan]

Hey Rich,

You probably know a fair amount about Chromium vs Chrome OS by now, but 
I've included all the info here for general consumption.

Chrome OS is Chromium OS redesigned for Google's Chromebooks but is also 
available for PCs. Chrome OS is designed for end users, whereas Chromium 
OS is designed for developers/geeks and requires more knowledge and 
maintenance and has less functionality targeted to kids and regular users.
https://www.chromium.org/chromium-os/chromium-os-faq

Chrome OS is a good choice for kids for five reasons -

1. designed to be simple to set up and maintain
2. has very good parental controls, whereas a standard Linux 
installation like Ubuntu can always be subverted
3. doesn't allow them free access to programs and the Internet.
4. set up to be used by schools and kids
5. can now also run many Android apps

The downsides:
1. It's very reliant on an Internet connection and can't run Linux or 
Windows apps (although the alternatives can run Linux apps)
2. If you don't have an actual Chromebook, there are some limitations 
although the alternatives can make up for these.
3. you have to be part of The Google to use it.

You can download ChromeOS for regular PC's here:
https://sites.google.com/site/chromeoslinux/download which just links to
http://getchrome.eu/download.php
but the first link at least shows you it's actually a Google download.

However, most reviews say that Neverware's version of Chrome OS is the best:
https://www.neverware.com/freedownload#intro-text

Here's a good recent review:
https://www.electromaker.io/blog/article/flint-os-vs-chromium-os-vs-cloudready-which-chrome-os-is-best

Other options for kids:

https://www.pcworld.com/article/2030685/make-your-pc-kid-friendly-with-four-custom-operating-systems.html

Best,
Sam

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Sam McClellan
*Itabix, Inc*
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sam at itabix.com
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On 4/14/2020 8:27 AM, Rich at tnr via Hidden-discuss wrote:
> All,
> I need some suggestions, I'm being asked to process a batch of Dell 
> laptops for the local school kids.
>
> SO I need to
>     (1) Wipe the hard drives
>     (2) install a chromebook (like) environment so they can use 
> typical virtual school sw.
>
> I'd prefer something free or close.
>
> I found 'Chromium OS'
>
> Any specific suggestions as to which of each you've had experience with.
> I will collect the suggestions as well as the results and post on HT 
> web site
> This is for the Greenfield school kids, if anyone is handling other 
> areas, please let me know and I'll make a list.
>
> (BTW, which has a set of covid-19 health and business (CARES act) 
> details.
>
> Thanks - Happy Tails and Stay healthy.
>

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