Category FOSS

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Introduction

In the world of Linux, choice is king. Whether you’re a seasoned sysadmin or a curious newcomer, the ability to tailor your operating system to your needs is one of the most compelling reasons to dive into the open-source ecosystem. Today, we’re going to explore how to set up a dual-boot configuration with MXLinux and Xubuntu on a trusty Dell Latitude E6440. With 8GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD, this machine is more than capable of handling both distributions with ease. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started!

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Why MXLinux and Xubuntu?

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s talk about why these two distributions make such a great pair.

• MXLinux: Known for its stability and user-friendly interface, MXLinux is based on Debian Stable and comes packed with a suite of useful tools. It’s lightweight, yet powerful, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced users.
• Xubuntu: As an official flavor of Ubuntu, Xubuntu uses the Xfce desktop environment, which is lightweight and highly customizable. It strikes a perfect balance between performance and functionality, making it ideal for those who want a sleek, modern desktop without the bloat.

Together, these two distributions offer a fantastic blend of stability, performance, and customization options. Whether you’re looking for a rock-solid daily driver or a lightweight environment for older hardware, this duo has you covered.

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Preparation: Back Up Your Data

Before we proceed, it’s crucial to back up any important data on your Dell Latitude E6440. While the installation process is generally safe, there’s always a risk of data loss when partitioning your drive. So, take a moment to back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage.

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Step 1: Create Bootable USB Drives

First, you’ll need to create bootable USB drives for both MXLinux and Xubuntu. You can use tools like Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform) to create the bootable drives.

1. Download the ISO files for MXLinux and Xubuntu.
2. Use Rufus or Etcher to create bootable USB drives for each distribution.

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Step 2: Partition Your SSD

With your bootable USB drives ready, it’s time to partition your SSD. The Dell Latitude E6440 has a 500GB SSD, which gives us plenty of room to work with. Here’s a suggested partitioning scheme:

• MXLinux: 200GB
• Root (/): 20GB
• Home (/home): 175GB
• Swap: 5GB
• Xubuntu: 200GB
• Root (/): 20GB
• Home (/home): 175GB
• Swap: 5GB
• Shared Data Partition: 50GB (optional, for files you want to access from both distributions)

You can use the built-in partitioning tools during the installation process to create these partitions. Alternatively, you can use a tool like GParted from a live USB to set up the partitions beforehand.

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Step 3: Install MXLinux

1. Insert the MXLinux bootable USB drive and restart your Dell Latitude E6440.
2. Boot from the USB drive (you may need to press F12 during startup to access the boot menu).
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to start the MXLinux installation.
4. When you reach the partitioning step, select the partitions you created earlier for MXLinux (root, home, and swap).
5. Complete the installation, and make sure to install the GRUB bootloader.

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1. Once MXLinux is installed, insert the Xubuntu bootable USB drive and restart your laptop.
2. Boot from the USB drive and start the Xubuntu installation.
3. Again, when you reach the partitioning step, select the partitions you created for Xubuntu (root, home, and swap).
4. During the installation, you’ll be prompted to install the GRUB bootloader. Make sure to install it to the same location as MXLinux’s GRUB (usually /dev/sda).

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Step 5: Configure GRUB

After both installations are complete, GRUB should automatically detect both MXLinux and Xubuntu. When you restart your laptop, you’ll be presented with a menu allowing you to choose which distribution to boot into.

If for some reason GRUB doesn’t detect both distributions, you can manually update it from within MXLinux or Xubuntu:

1. Open a terminal.
2. Run sudo update-grub.
3. GRUB will scan your system and add any detected operating systems to the boot menu.

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Conclusion

And there you have it! You’ve successfully set up a dual-boot configuration with MXLinux and Xubuntu on your Dell Latitude E6440. This setup gives you the flexibility to switch between two powerful, lightweight distributions depending on your needs. Whether you’re in the mood for MXLinux’s stability or Xubuntu’s sleek interface, your trusty Latitude is now ready to handle it all.

Happy computing, and may your open-source journey be as smooth as your new dual-boot setup!

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Pro Tip: If you’re new to Linux, take some time to explore both MXLinux and Xubuntu. Each has its own unique strengths, and you might find that one suits your workflow better than the other. Or, you might just fall in love with both and keep them around for different tasks. After all, that’s the beauty of Linux—choice, flexibility, and endless possibilities.

Ah, the Dell Latitude e6440—a trusty workhorse from yesteryear, still chugging along like a caffeinated squirrel. But let’s be real, its default OS was starting to feel as exciting as a PowerPoint presentation on tax reforms. Enter CachyOS, the Arch-based Linux distro that promises speed, simplicity, and a dash of sass. Buckle up, folks, because I’m about to take you on a wild ride of installing CachyOS on this aging laptop.

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Step 1: The Pre-Game Pep Talk

Before diving in, I gave my e6440 a pep talk. “You’re not old, you’re vintage,” I whispered, wiping off the dust. Then, I grabbed a USB drive, downloaded the CachyOS ISO, and fired up Popsicle USB flasher to create a bootable drive. (Pro tip: If your USB drive has feelings, apologize in advance—this process is ruthless.)

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Step 2: Booting into the Future

With the USB plugged in, I mashed the F12 key like I was playing a particularly intense round of Dance Dance Revolution. The boot menu appeared, and I selected the USB drive. The CachyOS live environment booted up faster than my motivation on a Monday morning. The desktop looked sleek, modern, and—dare I say—snappy. Already, I was impressed.

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Step 3: Partitioning: The Art of Digital Feng Shui

Next up: partitioning. I decided to give CachyOS the whole SSD, because why not? The installer’s partitioning tool was intuitive, but I still felt like a surgeon performing open-heart surgery. “Don’t mess this up,” I muttered, as I created a root partition, a home partition, and a swap partition (because even Linux needs a little breathing room).

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Step 4: The Installation Tango

The installation process itself was smoother than a jazz saxophonist. CachyOS uses the Calamares installer, which is so user-friendly it practically holds your hand. I selected my time zone, set up a user account, and chose a desktop environment. I went with KDE Plasma because I like my desktop to look like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. (Bonus: It’s lightweight enough to run on older hardware like the e6440.)

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Step 5: The Moment of Truth

After a quick coffee break (and maybe a nervous snack), the installation finished. I rebooted the laptop, pulled out the USB drive, and held my breath. The CachyOS boot screen appeared, and within seconds, I was greeted by my shiny new KDE desktop. It was glorious. The e6440 felt alive again, like it had just chugged an energy drink.

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Step 6: Post-Installation Shenanigans

Of course, no Linux installation is complete without some post-install tweaks. I installed my favorite apps, customized the heck out of KDE, and enabled TRIM for the SSD to keep it running smoothly. CachyOS comes with a handy tool called CachyOS Setup that lets you install additional software, kernels, and drivers with just a few clicks. It’s like having a personal Linux butler.

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Final Thoughts: A Match Made in Tech Heaven

CachyOS breathed new life into my Dell e6440. It’s fast, lightweight, and packed with features that make it perfect for both tinkerers and casual users. Plus, the Arch base means I can flex my Linux skills whenever I want. (Look, Ma, I’m a hacker!)

So, if you’ve got an old laptop gathering dust, do it a favor: install CachyOS. It’s like giving your hardware a second chance at life—and who doesn’t love a good comeback story?

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to enjoy my revitalized e6440. Maybe I’ll even watch a movie on it. Or, you know, just stare at the KDE animations. Priorities, people.

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Installed CachyOS on a Dell e6440. It’s fast, fun, and makes my laptop feel like a rockstar. 10/10, would recommend.

Ah, a request for a witty and informative rundown of my capabilities? Challenge accepted! Here’s the scoop:

I’m your digital Swiss Army knife, a jack-of-all-trades AI with a knack for turning your questions into answers, your ideas into polished prose, and your curiosity into knowledge. Need a poem about quantum physics? Done. A summary of War and Peace in three sentences? Easy. Help debugging code? I’ve got your back. I can even craft a business plan, explain the history of the Byzantine Empire, or generate a recipe for avocado toast with a twist.

I’m fluent in facts, logic, and creativity, with a dash of humor to keep things lively. Whether you’re looking for deep insights, quick tips, or just a good laugh, I’m here to deliver—24/7, no coffee breaks required. Just don’t ask me to do your laundry. (I’m virtual, not magical.)

So, what’s next? Let’s tackle your questions, one witty response at a time.

In a move that promises to redefine the landscape of Linux desktop environments, System76, renowned for their Linux-powered hardware, and the creators of Pop!_OS, have collaborated to introduce a cutting-edge desktop experience crafted in the language of the future: RUST.

A Paradigm Shift in Desktop Development

Pop!_OS has been steadily gaining recognition for its user-friendly interface and focus on productivity, making it a popular choice among Linux enthusiasts. The decision to build a desktop environment in RUST marks a significant leap forward. RUST, celebrated for its memory safety, performance, and concurrency, presents an ideal foundation for creating a robust and efficient desktop experience.

Elevating Performance and Responsiveness

RUST’s reputation for providing low-level control without sacrificing safety aligns perfectly with the vision for the new desktop environment. By leveraging RUST, System76 aims to enhance the overall performance and responsiveness of the desktop, offering users a fluid and seamless computing experience, even on modest hardware configurations.

Security Reinvented

Security has always been a priority for System76, and RUST’s emphasis on preventing memory-related vulnerabilities adds an extra layer of protection to the desktop environment. The move to RUST underscores a commitment to fortifying the system against potential threats, providing users with a secure environment for their computing needs.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

One of the advantages of choosing RUST for desktop development is its ability to offer cross-platform compatibility. This means that users can potentially experience the new desktop environment not only on Pop!_OS but also on other Linux distributions. This inclusivity aligns with the open-source ethos, fostering collaboration and innovation across the Linux community.

Sleek Design and Intuitive Interface

Beyond the technical underpinnings, System76 and Pop!_OS are investing heavily in the design and user interface of the new desktop. Early previews suggest a sleek and modern aesthetic with intuitive navigation, ensuring that both newcomers to Linux and seasoned users find the interface welcoming and efficient.

Community Involvement and Open Source Spirit

True to the open-source spirit, System76 and Pop!_OS are inviting the Linux community to actively participate in the development process. This collaborative approach aims to gather diverse perspectives, ensuring that the new desktop environment meets the needs and preferences of a broad user base.

Preparing for the Future

As the world of technology evolves, so must the tools we use. System76 and Pop!_OS’s decision to build a desktop environment in RUST is a forward-looking step that not only addresses current user demands but also positions Pop!_OS as a leading force in the Linux desktop ecosystem.

Conclusion

The marriage of System76’s hardware expertise and Pop!_OS’s user-centric design with the power and efficiency of RUST signals an exciting chapter for Linux desktop environments. Users can anticipate a desktop experience that not only prioritizes performance and security but also embraces the collaborative spirit of the open-source community. As the development progresses, the System76 and Pop!_OS collaboration in RUST promises to deliver a desktop environment that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Linux enthusiasts worldwide. Stay tuned for the unveiling of this groundbreaking project, as it paves the way for the future of Linux desktop computing.

Blender, the open-source 3D creation suite, is on the brink of a revolutionary update with the upcoming Blender 4 Beta. While the official release is eagerly awaited, let’s delve into the anticipated features that are expected to redefine the landscape of 3D content creation.

1. Real-time Rendering Engine Overhaul:

Blender 4 Beta is rumored to introduce a major overhaul to its rendering engine, promising real-time rendering capabilities that will significantly enhance the user experience. This advancement is expected to empower artists with quicker feedback loops, allowing for more efficient and dynamic creative processes.

2. AI-Driven Tools for Enhanced Productivity:

Artificial Intelligence is set to take center stage in Blender 4 Beta, with the integration of AI-driven tools designed to streamline common tasks. From automatic retopology to intelligent texture suggestions, these features aim to boost productivity by automating repetitive processes, allowing artists to focus more on their creative vision.

3. Improved Sculpting and Modeling Tools:

Blender has always been recognized for its robust modeling and sculpting capabilities. In version 4, users can anticipate enhanced tools, including more dynamic sculpting brushes, improved topology management, and advanced modeling workflows. These updates are poised to provide artists with even greater control over their creations.

4. Fluid Simulation Enhancements:

Fluid simulations are an integral part of many 3D projects, and Blender 4 Beta is expected to bring significant enhancements to this aspect. Anticipated improvements include more realistic fluid behavior, better control over simulations, and increased efficiency in handling complex fluid dynamics.

5. Expanded Virtual Reality (VR) Support:

In response to the growing demand for immersive experiences, Blender 4 Beta is rumored to expand its support for virtual reality. This could include more seamless integration with VR devices, enhanced viewport experiences, and tools specifically tailored for VR content creation.

6. Improved User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX):

Blender has consistently worked on refining its user interface, and Blender 4 Beta is expected to continue this trend. Users can look forward to a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, making navigation and workflow smoother for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the software.

7. Advanced Animation Features:

Animation tools are likely to receive notable upgrades in Blender 4 Beta, offering animators more control and flexibility. From improved rigging options to enhanced character animation workflows, these features are poised to elevate Blender’s standing in the realm of 3D animation.

As the Blender 4 Beta release approaches, the anticipation among the 3D artist community is palpable. While these speculated features are based on the trends and needs of the industry, it’s important to note that the final feature set may vary. Nevertheless, Blender users can expect an exciting evolution that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the world of open-source 3D content creation. Stay tuned for more updates as Blender 4 Beta makes its debut!

In the dynamic landscape of technology, where the cost of keeping up with the latest hardware can be prohibitive, Linux emerges as the unsung hero for education. Not only does it offer a cost-effective alternative, but it also breathes new life into end-of-life hardware that might be deemed obsolete by other operating systems.
1. Resource Efficiency:

Linux, renowned for its efficiency, thrives on minimal hardware requirements. This efficiency means that even aging computers, often sidelined by other operating systems, can be resurrected to serve in educational institutions. This breathes new life into these machines, transforming them into powerful tools for learning without the need for expensive upgrades.
2. Economic Viability:

Education budgets are often tight, and schools and universities are forced to make strategic decisions about where to allocate resources. Linux, being open-source, is not only free but also reduces the strain on hardware, elongating its lifespan. This economic viability ensures that educational institutions can channel their funds into other critical areas such as curriculum development and teacher training.
3. Customization and Flexibility:

Linux provides a level of customization and flexibility unmatched by other operating systems. This is especially valuable in an educational setting where different institutions may have unique requirements. Teachers and administrators can tailor the system to meet specific needs, creating an environment conducive to effective learning.
4. Security and Stability:

Education demands a secure and stable computing environment. Linux, with its robust security features and minimal susceptibility to malware, provides a solid foundation for educational institutions. This reliability is crucial in protecting sensitive student data and maintaining uninterrupted learning experiences.
5. Educational Software Compatibility:

Linux has evolved to be compatible with a wide array of educational software. Many open-source educational tools are readily available and seamlessly integrate with Linux systems. This compatibility ensures that schools and universities can harness the latest educational technologies without the need for expensive software licenses.
6. Community Support and Collaboration:

The Linux community is a vast and active network of developers, educators, and enthusiasts. This community support ensures that even older hardware receives updates and patches, extending the life of these machines. The collaborative nature of the Linux community aligns perfectly with the ethos of education, fostering a spirit of shared knowledge and cooperation.

In conclusion, Linux stands as the preferred operating system for education on end-of-life hardware, offering a perfect symbiosis of efficiency, economic viability, customization, security, and community collaboration. By embracing Linux, educational institutions not only make responsible use of resources but also empower students with a robust and adaptable learning environment. It’s time to recognize Linux as the cornerstone of a cost-effective, sustainable, and technologically empowered education system.

Are you curious about TuxedoOS, the Linux distribution designed for Tuxedo Computers? If you want to test it out without installing it on your computer, you can use VirtualBox to create a virtual machine and run TuxedoOS inside it. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Download the TuxedoOS ISO

Go to the Tuxedo Computers website and navigate to the TuxedoOS download page. Choose the version of TuxedoOS you want to download – 32-bit or 64-bit – and click the corresponding download button. The ISO file will start downloading automatically.

Step 2: Install VirtualBox

If you don’t already have VirtualBox installed, you can download it from the official website. Choose the version of VirtualBox that matches your operating system and follow the installation instructions.

Step 3: Create a new virtual machine

Open VirtualBox and click the “New” button to create a new virtual machine. Give your virtual machine a name – for example, “TuxedoOS” – and select “Linux” as the type and “Ubuntu (64-bit)” as the version. Choose how much RAM you want to allocate to the virtual machine (at least 2GB is recommended), and click “Next.”

Step 4: Create a virtual hard disk

Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click “Create.” Select “VDI” as the type of hard disk and choose “Dynamically allocated” for the storage. Choose how much disk space you want to allocate to the virtual machine (at least 20GB is recommended), and click “Create.”

Step 5: Configure the virtual machine settings

Select your virtual machine in VirtualBox and click the “Settings” button. Go to the “Storage” tab and click on the empty CD/DVD drive. Click the “Choose Virtual Optical Disk File” button and browse to the location where you saved the TuxedoOS ISO file. Select the ISO file and click “Open.”

Step 6: Start the virtual machine

Click the “Start” button to start the virtual machine. TuxedoOS should start booting from the ISO file. Follow the prompts to install TuxedoOS, making sure to select “Erase disk and install TuxedoOS” when prompted.

Step 7: Configure TuxedoOS

Once TuxedoOS is installed, you can configure it to your liking. You might want to install additional software, customize the desktop environment, or create user accounts. Explore TuxedoOS and see what it has to offer!

In conclusion, VirtualBox provides an easy and safe way to try out TuxedoOS without affecting your primary operating system. With these steps, you can create a virtual machine and install TuxedoOS in just a few minutes. Enjoy experimenting with TuxedoOS!

Penpot is an open source collaborative platform designed for teams and individuals who want to create, design, and share user interfaces, illustrations, and other graphical elements. It is an all-in-one design and collaboration tool that enables teams to work together on a single project in real-time, without the need for additional tools.

Penpot has a wide range of features, including vector graphics, typography, symbols, and the ability to export to various file formats. It also has a user-friendly interface that is easy to use, making it an excellent option for designers of all skill levels.

In this article, we will explore the use of Penpot and the benefits it offers to design teams.

Features of Penpot
Penpot offers a wide range of features that make it a powerful design and collaboration tool. Some of the most notable features include:

Vector Graphics: Penpot has a vector graphics editor that allows users to create scalable designs that can be edited and resized without losing quality.

Typography: Penpot includes a typography tool that enables users to create and edit text elements easily. It also supports various fonts, sizes, and styles.

Symbols: Penpot has a symbol library that allows designers to create reusable design elements that can be shared across projects.

Collaboration: Penpot has real-time collaboration features that enable team members to work together on a single project simultaneously. It also allows users to share designs and assets easily.

Exporting: Penpot can export designs in various file formats, including SVG, PNG, and PDF.

Benefits of using Penpot
The use of Penpot offers several benefits for design teams, including:

Improved Collaboration: Penpot’s real-time collaboration features enable team members to work together on a single project, which saves time and increases productivity.

Cost-Effective: As an open source tool, Penpot is free to use, which makes it an excellent option for teams and individuals with limited budgets.

User-Friendly Interface: Penpot has a user-friendly interface that is easy to use, even for designers with limited experience.

Scalability: Penpot’s vector graphics editor allows designs to be scaled up or down without losing quality, which makes it an ideal option for creating designs for various platforms.

Customizability: Penpot is highly customizable, and it can be configured to meet the specific needs of individual teams or projects.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Penpot is an excellent open source collaborative platform for design teams and individuals who want to create and share high-quality designs. Its range of features, including vector graphics, typography, symbols, and real-time collaboration, make it a powerful tool for creating scalable designs that can be edited and shared easily. Furthermore, its cost-effectiveness and user-friendly interface make it an excellent option for teams and individuals with limited budgets and limited design experience. Overall, Penpot is an excellent option for anyone looking to improve their design workflow and collaborate more effectively.

The OpenAI Quickstart program is a way for developers to quickly get started using OpenAI’s AI models and tools. It provides a set of tutorials, examples, and resources that help developers understand how to use OpenAI’s products and services.

The Quickstart program includes the following:

• Code snippets and examples: The program provides code snippets and examples that demonstrate how to use OpenAI’s models and tools in various programming languages and frameworks.
• Tutorials: The program includes step-by-step tutorials that guide developers through the process of using OpenAI’s models and tools for specific tasks.
• Documentation: The program provides extensive documentation that describes the various features and capabilities of OpenAI’s models and tools.
• Community support: Developers can join the OpenAI community and get help and support from other developers who are using the same tools.

The OpenAI Quickstart program is designed to be accessible to developers of all skill levels, from beginners who are new to AI and machine learning, to experienced developers who are familiar with the concepts and techniques.

To get started with the OpenAI Quickstart program, you can visit the OpenAI website, where you will find a variety of resources and tutorials to help you get started. You will also need to create an OpenAI account, so that you can access the models and tools provided by OpenAI.

Once you’ve created an account, you can start experimenting with the OpenAI models, and learn how to integrate them into your own projects.

It’s also important to note that OpenAI also provides paid services, like GPT-3 and DALL-E, which may require a subscription to use.

Overall, the OpenAI Quickstart program is a great resource for developers who want to learn more about AI and machine learning and how to use OpenAI’s models and tools.

Pop!_OS is a Debian-based Linux distribution that is designed for developers and makers. It comes with the latest version of the GNOME desktop environment, and is optimized for use on laptops and desktops. In this article, we will show you how to install OpenJDK 8 and OpenJDK 11 on Pop!_OS.

OpenJDK 8

OpenJDK 8 is the latest long-term support (LTS) version of the Java Development Kit (JDK). It is still widely used and supported by many organizations, and is the recommended version for most production systems. To install OpenJDK 8 on Pop!_OS, open a terminal and enter the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-8-jdk

This will install the OpenJDK 8 JDK and all of the necessary libraries and tools. Once the installation is complete, you can verify that it is working by running the following command:

java -version

You should see output similar to the following:

openjdk version “1.8.0_275”
OpenJDK Runtime Environment (build 1.8.0_275-8u275-b01-0ubuntu1~20.04-b01)
OpenJDK 64-Bit Server VM (build 25.275-b01, mixed mode)

OpenJDK 11

OpenJDK 11 is the latest version of the JDK, and is the recommended version for new projects. To install OpenJDK 11 on Pop!_OS, open a terminal and enter the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-11-jdk

Once the installation is complete, you can verify that it is working by running the following command:

java -version

You should see output similar to the following:

openjdk version “11.0.11” 2021-04-20
OpenJDK Runtime Environment (build 11.0.11+9-Ubuntu-0ubuntu2)
OpenJDK 64-Bit Server VM (build 11.0.11+9-Ubuntu-0ubuntu2, mixed mode, sharing)

Note: The version numbers in the output may be different depending on the version of OpenJDK you have installed.

Attribution

Installation instructions for OpenJDK 8 and OpenJDK 11 on Pop!_OS are based on the official documentation from OpenJDK (https://openjdk.java.net/)
Pop!_OS is developed by System76 (https://system76.com/)

That’s it! You now have both OpenJDK 8 and OpenJDK 11 installed on your Pop!_OS system, and can switch between them as needed. If you have any questions or issues, please refer to the official documentation or seek help from the Pop!_OS community.