DietPi

I tried it for a while and I will do it again. Easy to use, lightweight yet robust, task-oriented, helps in solving problems instead of getting in your way, like most of the Linux distros seem to do for newbies like myself. An example of getting in your way is IMO this (Garuda/Arch, Windows or Android does it in few steps): https://youtu.be/WeKcWTQc7mY

Edit 6/8/2026: I have upgraded to a full fledged unRaid NAS with Docker containers and virtual machines and for most of my needs, but my RPi4 is still used for a few things. DietPi is still hands down the best solution for easily setting up a simple home server on an inexpensive single board computer.

Easy and simple to set up, especially compared to other more feature rich options such as OpenMediaVault. After spending a while tinkering and getting stuck with OMV and other setups to get a simple home media and backup server going, I have settled on DietPi for its ease of use, regular updates, excellent documentation, and and good built in software selection. Very basic Linux command line experience is required: all of the functions are available in a simple graphical (text only) interface. No more setting and remembering directory paths, passwords, IP addresses and so forth for the various programs you need to work together. Runs great with a Raspberry PI 4.

Minimizes logging to SD card, so it lasts longer

Easy setup for many applications