Tech Refreshing, odisha, Rourkela (2026)

19/08/2026

Should You Disable Fast Startup Before Installing Linux? Here’s Why It Matters

If you’re planning to install Linux alongside Windows 11, there’s one setting you should check before you begin: Windows Fast Startup.

It sounds useful—and for many Windows-only users, it can be. Fast Startup is designed to reduce the amount of time Windows takes to boot after a shutdown. But when you’re creating a Windows and Linux dual-boot system, that convenience can sometimes create unexpected problems.

The reason is simple: Fast Startup doesn’t always perform a completely fresh shutdown. Windows may save part of the system state so it can start faster the next time you turn on your PC.

That can become a problem when Linux tries to access the same Windows drive.

For example, you may boot into Linux and discover that your Windows NTFS partition is mounted as read-only. In some situations, Linux may refuse to mount the partition normally because Windows has left it in a hibernated state.

If you’re new to dual booting, this can look like a Linux problem when the real cause is actually a Windows setting.

Why disable Fast Startup before installing Linux?

Turning off Fast Startup can help make the relationship between Windows and Linux much cleaner.

A complete Windows shutdown ensures that the Windows partitions are properly closed before Linux starts using the computer. This can reduce the chances of:

• NTFS partitions appearing locked
• Windows drives mounting as read-only in Linux
• Problems accessing files stored on your Windows partition
• Confusion between Windows Fast Startup and BIOS/UEFI Fast Boot
• Unnecessary troubleshooting after setting up dual boot

This is especially important if you plan to regularly access files on your Windows drive while using Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, Debian, or another Linux distribution.

One important distinction: Windows Fast Startup and BIOS/UEFI Fast Boot are not the same thing.

Windows Fast Startup controls how Windows shuts down and starts again. UEFI Fast Boot is a firmware feature that reduces some hardware checks during startup.

For most dual-boot users, Windows Fast Startup is the setting that deserves the most attention.

The good news is that disabling it is straightforward, and you can always reconsider the setting later depending on how you use your system.

If you’re preparing your PC for a Windows 11 and Linux dual boot, it’s worth understanding this setting before you resize partitions or begin the Linux installation.

We’ve explained what Fast Startup does, why Linux users may want to disable it, how to turn it off, and what to check if Linux is already installed.

👉 Read the complete guide:
https://techrefreshing.com/should-you-disable-fast-startup-before-installing-linux/

Have you ever faced locked or read-only Windows partitions while dual booting Linux? Share your experience in the comments.

18/08/2026

TUXEDO OS Review 2026: Is It Worth Using?

If you enjoy Linux but want a desktop that feels polished without spending hours fixing drivers and changing basic settings, TUXEDO OS is an interesting option to look at in 2026.

TUXEDO OS has always been closely connected with TUXEDO Computers’ Linux laptops and desktops, but you don’t actually need to own TUXEDO hardware to try it. The operating system is available as a free ISO and can be installed on many regular PCs and laptops.

What makes it different from a standard Ubuntu or Kubuntu installation?

For starters, TUXEDO OS uses KDE Plasma and puts a lot of effort into making the desktop feel ready for everyday use. It also removes Snap packages, uses Flatpak alongside native .deb packages, and includes TUXEDO’s own hardware optimizations.

For people who prefer a Linux system without unnecessary extras, another attraction is privacy. TUXEDO OS comes with no telemetry enabled by default and avoids the kind of bundled software many users simply don’t want.

But there’s a bigger reason TUXEDO OS is worth talking about in 2026.

🚀 TUXEDO OS is moving from Ubuntu toward Debian.

The familiar stable version—now called TUXEDO OS Legacy—continues to use Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. Meanwhile, TUXEDO is testing a new Debian-based generation that brings a newer KDE Plasma environment, Wayland by default, Btrfs, and other major changes.

That sounds exciting, but there is an important catch: the new Debian edition is currently a beta. It isn’t the version we would recommend putting on an important work machine just yet.

For everyday use, the Ubuntu-based Legacy release remains the safer choice.

🎮 What about gaming?

TUXEDO OS can also be a good option for Linux gamers. Steam, Lutris, Proton, MangoHUD and other popular gaming tools are available, while TUXEDO’s attention to NVIDIA and general hardware support can make setup easier on compatible systems.

So, is TUXEDO OS worth using in 2026?

For TUXEDO hardware owners, the answer is easy: it is one of the most natural Linux choices for the hardware.

For everyone else, it is still worth considering if you want a polished KDE Plasma Linux distro, prefer a Snap-free Linux experience, value privacy, or simply want something a little different from standard Ubuntu and Kubuntu.

The new Debian direction also makes TUXEDO OS one of the more interesting Linux distributions to watch going forward.

👉 Read our complete TUXEDO OS Review 2026, including installation, hardware compatibility, gaming, privacy, Ubuntu vs Debian differences, pros and cons, and our final verdict:

https://techrefreshing.com/tuxedo-os-review-2026-is-it-worth-using/

💬 Would you install TUXEDO OS instead of Ubuntu, Kubuntu or Fedora? Let us know in the comments.

17/08/2026

Does Linux Support Face Unlock on Laptops in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve used Windows Hello before, you already know how convenient face unlock can be. Open the laptop, look at the camera, and you’re signed in within seconds. But what happens when you switch to Linux?

The good news is that Linux does support face unlock on laptops, although the experience is still different from what you get with Windows Hello.

Most popular Linux distributions do not currently include universal facial recognition as a built-in login option. Instead, Linux users generally rely on third-party tools that integrate with PAM, the authentication system used by many Linux distributions.

One of the most well-known options is Howdy, which has been used for years to bring Windows Hello-style face authentication to Linux. There are also newer projects and alternatives being developed for users who want facial recognition on Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch Linux, openSUSE and other distributions.

But there’s one important detail: your laptop camera matters.

A regular we**am may work with some Linux face recognition tools, but an infrared or IR camera usually provides a better experience. IR cameras can detect your face in low-light environments and may provide more reliable recognition than a standard RGB we**am.

That’s why laptops originally designed with Windows Hello hardware can sometimes be particularly interesting for Linux users. The hardware may already be there—the challenge is getting Linux software to use it properly.

Security is another factor worth considering.

Face unlock can be extremely convenient, but not every Linux facial recognition solution offers the same level of protection as dedicated biometric hardware. Depending on the software and camera being used, facial authentication may be better treated as a convenience feature rather than the only security layer protecting your laptop.

Fingerprint readers can also be a good alternative. Many modern Linux distributions now provide better fingerprint support than they did a few years ago, although compatibility still depends on the fingerprint sensor inside your laptop.

So, is Linux face unlock worth trying in 2026?

For Linux enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their systems, absolutely. The technology has improved, more projects are appearing, and support for modern laptop hardware continues to evolve.

However, users should still expect some manual configuration compared with Windows.

We’ve put together a complete guide explaining how face unlock works on Linux laptops, which tools are available, IR camera requirements, distro compatibility, security considerations, and alternatives such as fingerprint authentication.

🐧 Read the full guide here:
https://techrefreshing.com/does-linux-support-face-unlock-on-laptops/

Have you tried face unlock on Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch Linux or another distro? Share your experience in the comments—especially your laptop model and whether you’re using an IR camera.

14/08/2026

GPT vs MBR for Linux Dual Boot: Which One Should You Actually Use?

Planning to install **Linux alongside Windows**? Before creating partitions or launching the Linux installer, there’s one technical detail worth checking first: is your drive using GPT or MBR?

It might sound like something only advanced Linux users need to worry about, but the partition table can have a big impact on how smoothly your dual-boot setup works.

MBR (Master Boot Record) is the older partitioning system designed for the BIOS era. It has been around for decades and can still work perfectly well on older computers. But it comes with limitations, including support for only four primary partitions and a maximum usable disk size of around 2TB.

GPT (GUID Partition Table) is the modern alternative and is designed to work with UEFI firmware. It supports much larger drives, allows far more partitions, and keeps backup partition-table information that can help protect against certain types of corruption.

So, which should you choose for a Linux and Windows dual boot?

For most modern computers, GPT + UEFI is the better choice.

If your PC already runs Windows 11 or a recent Windows installation in UEFI mode, there’s a good chance the system drive is already using GPT. In that situation, Linux should normally be installed in UEFI mode as well.

One of the easiest ways to create dual-boot problems is to mix boot modes.

For example, Windows may already be installed using UEFI + GPT, but the Linux installation USB gets accidentally booted in Legacy BIOS mode. Linux may install, but afterward you could encounter problems with GRUB, Windows Boot Manager, or the system booting directly into only one operating system.

That’s why checking your existing setup before installing Linux is so important.

MBR isn’t completely obsolete, though. It can still make sense if you’re using an older computer that only supports Legacy BIOS, maintaining legacy hardware, or working with certain older storage devices.

But for a current desktop or laptop, particularly one running Windows 11, GPT is usually the practical choice.

💡 Before starting your dual-boot installation:

✅ Check whether Windows uses UEFI or Legacy BIOS
✅ Check whether the disk is GPT or MBR
✅ Boot your Linux USB in the same firmware mode
✅ Back up important files before resizing partitions
✅ Double-check the target drive before making changes

A few minutes spent checking these things can save you from hours of troubleshooting GRUB and boot-loader problems later.

I’ve explained **GPT vs MBR for Linux dual boot** in much more detail, including partition limits, UEFI, Secure Boot, Windows compatibility, common installation mistakes, and how to check your current partition style.

👇 Read the complete guide here:

https://techrefreshing.com/gpt-vs-mbr-for-linux-dual-boot/

Have you ever had a Linux dual-boot installation fail because of a **GPT/MBR or UEFI/Legacy mismatch**? Share what happened in the comments—it may help someone preparing their own setup.

13/08/2026

SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta Review: Should Steam Deck Users Install It?

Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta, bringing another round of fixes and improvements for Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and other supported handheld gaming PCs. On paper, the update looks promising—but there is also an important performance issue that may make some Steam Deck users think twice before installing it.

One of the biggest areas Valve is focusing on with SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta is hardware compatibility and stability. The update includes improvements related to Steam Machine sleep and wake behavior, along with fixes for HDMI, Bluetooth audio, Wi-Fi, and other system-level issues.

Valve is also continuing to expand SteamOS support beyond the Steam Deck. The latest beta includes improvements for several third-party handheld gaming PCs, which is another sign that SteamOS is gradually becoming a broader Linux-based gaming platform rather than something designed only for Valve hardware.

Another notable change is the updated Linux 6.18.42 kernel. Kernel updates can bring better hardware compatibility, driver improvements, security fixes, and general system stability. For Linux gaming enthusiasts, this is one of the more interesting technical changes included in the release.

However, there is an important reason Steam Deck owners may want to remain on the stable SteamOS channel for now.

Valve has acknowledged a performance regression involving FSR and composition-heavy workloads in SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta. If you regularly use AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution to improve performance in demanding games, this issue could affect your gaming experience.

That does not necessarily mean SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta is a bad update. Beta releases are specifically designed to test upcoming improvements before they reach everyone. Bugs, regressions, and unexpected behavior are always possible.

For users who enjoy testing new SteamOS features, own compatible third-party handhelds, or want to experiment with Valve's latest fixes, SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta could still be worth exploring.

For most regular Steam Deck users, though, staying on the stable SteamOS release is probably the safer choice until Valve resolves the known performance regression.

In our full SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta review, we take a closer look at what's new, the important fixes, supported handheld improvements, the known FSR issue, and whether upgrading makes sense for different types of users.

🎮 **Read the complete review here:
https://techrefreshing.com/steamos-3-8-25-beta-review/

Have you already installed SteamOS 3.8.25 Beta on your Steam Deck or handheld PC? Have you noticed any performance differences? Share your experience in the comments.

12/08/2026

The Linux Directory Structure Finally Explained — What Do /etc, /var, /usr and /proc Actually Do?

If you’re new to Linux, one of the first things that can make the operating system feel confusing is its directory structure.

Open the root `/` directory and suddenly you’re looking at folders called `/etc`, `/var`, `/usr`, `/proc`, `/dev`, `/opt`, `/boot` and several others.

Where are your programs stored?
Where does Linux keep configuration files?
What is `/proc`, and why does it seem to contain files that aren’t really files?

Once you understand the **Linux directory structure**, Linux starts making a lot more sense.

Unlike Windows, Linux doesn’t organize everything around drive letters such as `C:\`. The entire Linux filesystem begins at one root directory — `/` — and almost everything else branches out from there.

For example:

📁 `/home` is where regular users keep their personal files and settings.

⚙️ `/etc` contains many of the system-wide configuration files you’ll eventually encounter while configuring Linux.

📊 `/var` stores data that changes regularly, including logs, caches and other variable information.

💻 `/usr` contains a large portion of the programs, libraries and shared resources installed on a Linux system.

🧠 `/proc` is particularly interesting. It is a virtual filesystem that gives you access to information about running processes and the Linux kernel rather than behaving like an ordinary folder stored on your drive.

🚀 `/boot` contains important files involved in starting your Linux system.

🔌 `/dev` represents devices connected to or recognized by the system.

Understanding what these directories are meant for can make everything from using the terminal to troubleshooting Linux much easier.

And there’s another important detail: **not every Linux distribution organizes everything in exactly the same way**.

Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch Linux, openSUSE and other distributions generally share the same basic filesystem concepts, but there can be differences in package management files, configuration locations and how certain directories are implemented.

That’s why simply memorizing a list of Linux folders isn’t enough.

It’s far more useful to understand **why each Linux directory exists and what kind of files you should expect to find there**.

We’ve put together a detailed beginner-friendly guide covering the major Linux directories, what they contain, how the Linux filesystem hierarchy works, practical navigation tips, and some important differences between popular Linux distributions.

Whether you’ve just installed Linux for the first time, are learning Linux administration, or simply want to understand what’s happening behind the terminal, this is one guide worth bookmarking.

👉 Read The Complete Guide to Linux Directories:
https://techrefreshing.com/the-complete-guide-to-linux-directories/

Which Linux directory confused you the most when you were getting started — `/etc`, `/var`, `/proc`, `/usr`, or something else? 👇

07/08/2026

🐧 What Really Happens When You Press the Power Button on a Linux PC?

You press the power button, wait a few seconds, and your Linux desktop appears.

It feels simple. But during those few seconds, your computer goes through a surprisingly complex sequence of events. Understanding this Linux boot process can also make troubleshooting much easier when your PC refuses to start normally.

So, what actually happens?

⚡ It Starts With Power and Hardware

The moment you press the power button, electricity reaches the motherboard, processor, memory, storage devices, and other components.

Your system firmware—usually UEFI on modern PCs or BIOS on older machines—begins checking and initializing the hardware needed to start the computer.

But Linux isn't running yet.

💾 The Bootloader Takes Over

Once the firmware finishes its job, it needs to find something capable of starting the operating system.

This is where the bootloader enters the picture.

On many Linux systems, that bootloader is GRUB. If you've ever seen a menu asking you to choose between Ubuntu, Windows, an older Linux kernel, or another operating system, you've already interacted with it.

GRUB locates the Linux kernel and loads it into memory.

🐧 The Linux Kernel Wakes Up

Now we finally reach Linux itself.

The Linux kernel begins initializing critical parts of the system. It detects hardware, prepares memory management, initializes drivers, mounts the necessary filesystem, and gets the environment ready for user space.

This is one of the most important stages of the entire Linux startup process.

⚙️ Then Comes systemd

On most modern Linux distributions, the kernel eventually starts systemd as the first user-space process.

systemd then begins starting everything your working Linux system needs: networking, background services, logging, device management, display services, and much more.

Different services can start in parallel, helping modern Linux systems boot surprisingly quickly.

🖥️ Finally, Your Desktop Appears

After the required services are running, the system can start a graphical login manager or give you a command-line login.

You enter your credentials, your desktop environment starts, and Linux is ready to use.

All of that happened because you pressed one button.

And knowing these stages isn't just interesting Linux trivia.

If your computer freezes before GRUB appears, fails while loading the kernel, drops into emergency mode, or never reaches the login screen, understanding the boot sequence gives you a much better idea of where to start troubleshooting.

We've broken down the entire journey—from the power button to the Linux desktop—in our latest TechRefreshing guide.

👇 Read the complete step-by-step explanation:

https://techrefreshing.com/what-happens-when-you-press-the-power-button-on-a-linux-pc/

💬 Have you ever had to troubleshoot a Linux PC that wouldn't boot? What caused the problem?

06/08/2026

🚀 AerynOS 2026.08 Review: Is This Linux Distribution Worth Upgrading To?

The Linux desktop ecosystem never stands still, and AerynOS 2026.08 is another reminder that innovation doesn't only come from the biggest distributions. While Ubuntu, Fedora, and Arch Linux continue to dominate the headlines, AerynOS has quietly been building a reputation for offering a modern, clean, and forward-looking Linux experience.

Our latest AerynOS 2026.08 review explores everything that's new in this release and answers the question many Linux users are asking: **Should you upgrade?**

One of the biggest highlights of AerynOS is its focus on a modern desktop experience. The latest version brings noticeable improvements in performance, system responsiveness, and overall polish. Whether you're browsing, coding, or simply exploring the desktop, the experience feels fast and refined.

Another area where AerynOS stands out is its unique approach to software management. Instead of following the traditional package management model used by many Linux distributions, it continues to develop its own modern ecosystem. Combined with an atomic-style approach to system updates, the result is a platform designed to be more reliable, easier to maintain, and better prepared for the future.

Of course, no Linux distribution is perfect. While AerynOS offers several exciting ideas, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Users who rely on extensive software repositories or prefer long-established ecosystems may find a learning curve. That's why our review doesn't just highlight the strengths—we also discuss the limitations, helping you decide whether it's the right distribution for your needs.

If you're someone who enjoys trying new Linux distributions or wants to stay updated with the latest developments in open-source operating systems, AerynOS 2026.08 is definitely worth a closer look.

In our complete review, you'll discover:

✅ What's new in AerynOS 2026.08
✅ Performance improvements
✅ Desktop experience and usability
✅ Installation overview
✅ Pros and cons
✅ Who should upgrade—and who might want to wait

If you're considering installing AerynOS or upgrading from an earlier version, our detailed review will help you make an informed decision.

👉 Read the full review here:
https://techrefreshing.com/aerynos-2026-08-review-worth-upgrading-to/

We'd also love to hear from you! Have you already tried AerynOS 2026.08? What are your first impressions? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation with fellow Linux enthusiasts.

05/08/2026

🐧 4MLinux 52.0 vs Puppy Linux: Which Lightweight Linux Distro Should You Choose in 2026?

If you have an old laptop or desktop collecting dust, you don't necessarily need to buy a new computer. Installing a lightweight Linux distribution can breathe new life into aging hardware, making it fast and usable again. Two of the most popular choices are 4MLinux 52.0 and Puppy Linux—but which one is actually the better option?

That question inspired us to put both distributions side by side and compare them in real-world scenarios.

At first glance, both are designed for older computers and systems with limited RAM. They boot quickly, use very little storage, and can run smoothly on hardware that struggles with modern operating systems. However, once you start using them, the differences become much more noticeable.

4MLinux 52.0 focuses on simplicity, speed, and stability. It includes essential applications out of the box, making it a practical choice for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, multimedia playback, and system recovery. If you're looking for a lightweight Linux distribution that "just works" without much customization, 4MLinux is worth considering.

Puppy Linux, on the other hand, has built a loyal following over the years because of its incredible portability and flexibility. It can run entirely from RAM on supported systems, resulting in an impressively responsive experience. Many users also appreciate its ability to run from a USB drive without installing anything to the hard disk, making it ideal for rescuing old PCs or carrying a portable operating system wherever you go.

In our latest comparison, we looked beyond the specifications. We explored startup speed, memory usage, software availability, ease of installation, user experience, and the situations where each distribution performs best. Instead of declaring a one-size-fits-all winner, we explain which distro is better depending on your needs and hardware.

Whether you're a Linux beginner searching for an easy-to-use lightweight operating system or an experienced user trying to revive an older machine, this guide can help you make an informed decision.

👉 Read the complete comparison here:
https://techrefreshing.com/4mlinux-52-0-vs-puppy-linux/

💬 We'd love to hear from the Linux community!

Which lightweight Linux distribution do you prefer for older computers?

* 🟢 4MLinux
* 🔵 Puppy Linux
* 🟡 Another lightweight distro (tell us in the comments!)

If you found this post useful, don't forget to Like, Share, and Follow Tech Refreshing Media for more Linux tutorials, distro comparisons, software reviews, and open-source technology news.

04/08/2026

Archcraft 26.08 Review: A Lightweight Arch Linux Distro That Keeps Getting Better

If you're searching for a lightweight, fast, and visually polished Linux distribution, Archcraft 26.08 deserves your attention. Built on the power of Arch Linux, Archcraft combines performance with an elegant desktop experience, making it a great choice for users who want a modern Linux system without the heavy resource usage of traditional desktop environments.

I recently explored the latest Archcraft 26.08 release, and it's clear that the developers have focused on refining both usability and stability. This update introduces a smoother installation process, improved hardware compatibility, and a new Sway Wayland session, giving users even more flexibility. Whether you're installing it on a modern laptop, an older desktop, or a virtual machine, the experience feels more polished than previous versions.

One of the biggest strengths of Archcraft is its carefully designed interface. Unlike many lightweight Linux distributions that sacrifice appearance for speed, Archcraft delivers both. The preconfigured window managers, beautiful themes, and responsive performance create a desktop that's enjoyable to use from the first boot. It offers the customization power of Arch Linux without requiring hours of manual configuration.

Performance is another highlight. Thanks to its minimal design and efficient resource usage, Archcraft boots quickly and remains responsive even on modest hardware. Developers, students, and Linux enthusiasts looking for a distraction-free environment will appreciate how lightweight the system feels while still providing access to the extensive Arch Linux software repositories.

Of course, Archcraft isn't designed for everyone. If you're completely new to Linux, distributions like Ubuntu or Linux Mint may still provide an easier starting point. However, for users who want to move beyond beginner-friendly distributions and experience the flexibility of Arch Linux with less setup effort, Archcraft offers an excellent balance.

In my full review, I cover everything you need to know about Archcraft 26.08, including its new features, installation experience, desktop improvements, performance, advantages, limitations, and whether it's the right Linux distribution for your needs. If you're planning your next Linux installation or simply curious about the latest Arch-based releases, this guide will help you decide.

👉 Read the complete review here:
https://techrefreshing.com/archcraft-26-08-review/

If you've already tried Archcraft 26.08, I'd love to hear about your experience. Which Linux distribution are you currently using—Archcraft, Arch Linux, Fedora, Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or something else? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion with fellow Linux enthusiasts.

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