Difference between revisions of "FAQ"

From GhostBSD Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
m
 
(68 intermediate revisions by 9 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 +
{{welcome}}
 
<languages/>
 
<languages/>
 
<translate>
 
<translate>
 
<!--T:1-->
 
<!--T:1-->
This document aims to cover the most frequently asked questions concerning the GhostBSD operating system.  
+
This document aims to cover the most frequently asked questions concerning the GhostBSD operating system. Although originally intended to reduce bandwidth and avoid the same old questions being asked over and over again, FAQs have become recognized as valuable information resources.
  
 
<!--T:2-->
 
<!--T:2-->
Line 12: Line 13:
  
 
<!--T:5-->
 
<!--T:5-->
Briefly, GhostBSD is a [[wikipedia:en:Unix-like|UNIX®-like]] [[wikipedia:en:Operating system|operating system]]. It works on AMD64 and Intel® platforms. GhostBSD is based on TrueOS. Trueos is based on [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD|FreeBSD]], which is based on U.C. Berkeley’s “[[wikipedia:en:4.4BSD|4.4BSD]]-Lite” release, with some “[[wikipedia:en:4.4BSD|4.4BSD]]-Lite2” enhancements. It is also based indirectly on William Jolitz’s port of U.C. Berkeley’s “Net/2” to the i386, known as “[[wikipedia:en:386BSD|386BSD]]”, though very little of the 386BSD code remains. GhostBSD provides a [[MATE]] desktop.
+
Briefly, GhostBSD is a [[wikipedia:en:Unix-like|UNIX®-like]] [[wikipedia:en:Operating system|operating system]]. It works on AMD64 and Intel® platforms. GhostBSD is based on [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD|FreeBSD]], which is based on U.C. Berkeley’s “[[wikipedia:en:4.4BSD|4.4BSD]]-Lite” release, with some “[[wikipedia:en:4.4BSD|4.4BSD]]-Lite2” enhancements. It is also based indirectly on William Jolitz’s port of U.C. Berkeley’s “Net/2” to the i386, known as “[[wikipedia:en:386BSD|386BSD]]”, though very little of the 386BSD code remains. At this time, GhostBSD provides [[MATE]] desktop as default version, and a community release with [[XFCE]] desktop.
 +
 +
You will get more information [[GhostBSD|here]]
  
=== Who can use GhostBSD? === <!--T:6-->
+
=== On which FreeBSD branch is GhostBSD based on? === <!--T:6-->
  
<!--T:7-->
+
GhostBSD is based on the FreeBSD 13.2-STABLE branch.
GhostBSD can be used by companies, researchers, computer professionals, students and home users all over the world in their work, education, and recreation.
+
  
=== What is the goal of the GhostBSD Project? === <!--T:8-->
+
The differences between GhostBSD and FreeBSD you will find [[GhostBSD#GhostBSD vs. FreeBSD|here]].
  
<!--T:9-->
+
=== Who can use GhostBSD? === <!--T:7-->
The goal of the GhostBSD Project is to combine the ease of use of a set of [[wikipedia:en:GTK|GTK]] [[wikipedia:en:Desktop environment|desktops]] with security and flexibility of the underlying TrueOS mechanisms. GhostBSD is a great tool to learn TrueOS and start one’s adventure in the BSD world. GhostBSD may be used for any purpose and without strings attached.
+
  
=== Does the GhostBSD license have any restrictions? === <!--T:10-->
+
<!--T:8-->
 +
GhostBSD can be used by companies, researchers, data scientists, computer professionals, students, and home users all over the world in their work, education, and recreation.
 +
 
 +
=== What is the goal of the GhostBSD Project? === <!--T:9-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:10-->
 +
The goal of the GhostBSD Project is to combine the ease of use of a set of [[wikipedia:en:GTK|GTK]] [[wikipedia:en:Desktop environment|desktops]] with security and flexibility of the underlying [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD|FreeBSD]] mechanisms. GhostBSD is a great tool to learn FreeBSD and start one’s adventure in the BSD world. GhostBSD may be used for any purpose and without strings attached.
 +
 
 +
=== Does the GhostBSD license have any restrictions? === <!--T:11-->
  
 
<!--T:11-->
 
<!--T:11-->
Line 31: Line 40:
 
* Do not sue us if it breaks.
 
* Do not sue us if it breaks.
  
=== Can GhostBSD replace my current operating system? === <!--T:12-->
+
=== Can GhostBSD replace my current operating system? === <!--T:13-->
  
<!--T:13-->
+
<!--T:14-->
 
For most users, yes.
 
For most users, yes.
 
<!--T:14-->
 
Most people do not actually use an operating system. They use applications, as these are what really makes a computer useful. GhostBSD is designed to provide a [[wikipedia:en:Desktop environment|desktop]] and full-featured environment for applications. It supports a wide variety of web browsers, office suites, email readers, graphics programs, programming environments, network servers, and just about everything else you might want. Most of these applications can be built using the TrueOS Ports Collection.
 
  
 
<!--T:15-->
 
<!--T:15-->
If you need to use an application that is only available on one operating system, you cannot easily replace that operating system (this situation is referred to as [[wikipedia:en:Vendor_lock-in|vendor lock-in]]). However, chances are that there is a very similar application on GhostBSD, however. If you want a solid office or internet server, a reliable workstation, or just the ability to do your job without interruptions, GhostBSD will almost certainly do everything you need.
+
Most people do not actually use an operating system. They use applications, as these are what really makes a computer useful. GhostBSD is designed to provide a [[wikipedia:en:Desktop environment|desktop]] and full-featured environment for applications. It supports a wide variety of web browsers, office suites, email readers, graphics programs, programming environments, network servers, and just about everything else you might want. Most of these applications can be built using the [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD_Ports|FreeBSD Ports Collection]].
  
 
<!--T:16-->
 
<!--T:16-->
 +
If you need to use an application that is only available on one operating system, you cannot easily replace that operating system (this situation is referred to as [[wikipedia:en:Vendor_lock-in|vendor lock-in]]). However chances are that there is a very similar application on GhostBSD, however. If you want a solid office or internet server, a reliable workstation, or just the ability to do your job without interruptions, GhostBSD will almost certainly do everything you need.
 +
 +
<!--T:17-->
 
If you are migrating to GhostBSD from some other [[wikipedia:en:Unix-like|UNIX®-like]] environment, you already know most of what you need to know. If your background is in graphic-driven operating systems such as [[wikipedia:en:Microsoft_Windows|Microsoft Windows®]] and older versions of [[wikipedia:en:OS_X|MacOS®]], expect to invest additional time learning the [[wikipedia:en:Unix|UNIX]] way of doing things.
 
If you are migrating to GhostBSD from some other [[wikipedia:en:Unix-like|UNIX®-like]] environment, you already know most of what you need to know. If your background is in graphic-driven operating systems such as [[wikipedia:en:Microsoft_Windows|Microsoft Windows®]] and older versions of [[wikipedia:en:OS_X|MacOS®]], expect to invest additional time learning the [[wikipedia:en:Unix|UNIX]] way of doing things.
  
=== Why is it called GhostBSD? === <!--T:17-->
+
=== Why is it called GhostBSD? === <!--T:18-->
  
<!--T:18-->
+
<!--T:19-->
At first, GhostBSD did mean "<tt>Gnome haked operating system technology on FreeBSD<tt>" which later it became what was referred to as “<tt>Gnome hosted on BSD</tt>.However, at present, GhostBSD supports the MATE desktop environment, so it is more accurate to refer to GhostBSD as "<tt>GTK hosted on BSD</tt>."
+
GhostBSD was developed as an operating system to hack on Gnome using BSD technology. After a while it became what was referred to as “<tt>Gnome hosted by BSD</tt>”, which means that Gnome is hosted on the FreeBSD system. Now that we support multiple GTK desktops it is more accurate to call it "<tt>GTK hosted by BSD</tt>".
  
=== What is the latest version of GhostBSD? === <!--T:19-->
+
=== What is the latest version of GhostBSD? === <!--T:20-->
 
+
<!--T:20-->
+
At this point in time, we are at version 18.10.
+
  
 
<!--T:21-->
 
<!--T:21-->
Releases are usually made every several months.
+
At this point in time, we are at [http://www.ghostbsd.org/download version] with Mate Desktop or XFCE Desktop.
  
 
<!--T:22-->
 
<!--T:22-->
Version 19.02 is next to come, following the release cycle of TrueOS.
+
Releases are usually made every few months.
 +
 
  
<!--T:23-->
+
<!--T:24-->
Many GhostBSD users stay up to date using other mechanisms available to TrueOS users.
+
GhostBSD users can keep their system up-to-date by using Software Station.
  
 
=== When are GhostBSD releases made? === <!--T:24-->
 
=== When are GhostBSD releases made? === <!--T:24-->
  
 
<!--T:25-->
 
<!--T:25-->
The developer's team releases a new version more or less every several &nbsp;months. GhostBSD follows the release dates of TrueOS. A testing period precedes each release in order to ensure that the addition of new features does not compromise the stability of the release.
+
The development team releases a new version more or less every couple of months. A testing period precedes each release in order to ensure that the addition of new features does not compromise the stability of the release.
  
 
=== How can I contribute? === <!--T:26-->
 
=== How can I contribute? === <!--T:26-->
  
 
<!--T:27-->
 
<!--T:27-->
There are several ways to contribute to the GhostBSD project:
+
There is a number of ways to contribute to the GhostBSD project:
* If you are a programmer and want to learn more about the TrueOS operating system, consider becoming a developer.
+
* If you possess abilities in programming and knowledge of the [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD|FreeBSD]] operating system, or you simply want to learn these things, you might want to consider joining the team by becoming an active developer. If you are feeling adventurous, you might want to try [[How to build GhostBSD? | building GhostBSD]], but you might as well join us on Telegram [https://t.me/ghostbsd] to get in touch with the team and see what work currently has to be done.
* If you are artistically inclined, consider helping us create fan art, logos, wallpapers, or help design/maintain the website layout.
+
* If you are interested in helping form the artistic perspective, you could contribute fan art, logos, wallpapers, or help design/maintain the website layout. In this case, join us on Telegram [https://t.me/ghostbsd].
* If you have good writing skills and know English well, consider helping us by producing content for the website and wiki.
+
* If you have decent writing skills and know English quite well, you might want to help by writing documents and producing website and wiki content. Get in touch with us on Telegram [https://t.me/ghostbsd].
* If you find a software problem (i.e., bug), please submit a problem report (PR) [http://issues.ghostbsd.org here].
+
* If none of the above apply to you, you might just want to use GhostBSD and tell us about bugs you've discovered and the ideas you have about how to improve the system [http://forums.ghostbsd.org/viewforum.php?f=7 You can report them via forums]. You might also consider simply spreading the word about GhostBSD!
* If none of the above apply to you, consider using GhostBSD and report any bugs you've discovered or any ideas that you might have about how to improve the system. You might also consider simply spreading the word about GhostBSD!
+
* On the [[Contribution]] page you will get more information.
  
 
<!--T:28-->
 
<!--T:28-->
If you want to contribute in any way, please reach out to us via Telegram https://t.me/ghostbsd, IRC Freenode [http://ghostbsd.org/irc/ #ghostbsd], or [http://forums.ghostbsd.org/ GhostBSD Forums].
+
If you feel like you might be able to help us grow and improve GhostBSD in any of the above ways (or any other way you can come up with), please contact us using [http://forums.ghostbsd.org/ the forums], or join us on Telegram [https://t.me/ghostbsd].
  
 
== '''Support''' == <!--T:29-->
 
== '''Support''' == <!--T:29-->
Line 88: Line 95:
 
<!--T:31-->
 
<!--T:31-->
 
At this point, the best ways to contact other GhostBSD users or developers are:
 
At this point, the best ways to contact other GhostBSD users or developers are:
* Telegram at https://t.me/ghostbsd
+
* On Telegram you will meet developers and users.
 
* The IRC channels are <code>#ghostbsd</code> and <code>#ghostbsd-dev</code> on irc://irc.freenode.net.
 
* The IRC channels are <code>#ghostbsd</code> and <code>#ghostbsd-dev</code> on irc://irc.freenode.net.
* You can access the IRC channel [http://ghostbsd.org/irc/ via our web user interface].
+
*: You can access the IRC channel [http://ghostbsd.org/irc/ via our web user interface].
* The forums are available at http://forums.ghostbsd.org/
+
* The forums are available at http://forums.ghostbsd.org/.
 
+
  
 
<!--T:32-->
 
<!--T:32-->
Line 99: Line 105:
 
=== Where can I find complete information on how to get things done in GhostBSD? === <!--T:33-->
 
=== Where can I find complete information on how to get things done in GhostBSD? === <!--T:33-->
  
<!--T:34-->
+
The first step should be, to search this wiki. We will collect all information and connect them to this wiki.
For the most part, things can be done on GhostBSD the same way they are done on TrueOS. This is why we encourage our users to check out the great [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/ FreeBSD Handbook] and TrueOS Handbook in case of any doubts or questions. If the handbooks do not cover a specific area of your interest, the Telegram channel will probably hold the answers you seek.
+
For the most part, things can be done on GhostBSD the same way they are done on [[https://www.freebsd.org/ FreeBSD]]. This is why we encourage our users to check out the great [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/ FreeBSD Handbook] in case of any doubts or questions. If any handbook linked to the [[Manuals]] page does not cover a specific area of your interest, or it seems GhostBSD differs from FreeBSD in some regard, the forums or IRC channel will probably hold the answers you seek.
 +
 
 +
=== On which FreeBSD branch should I try to reproduce GhostBSD bugs? <!--T:34-->
 +
On the same on which it is based. See [[FAQ#On which FreeBSD branch is GhostBSD based on?|above]].
  
 
== '''Installation''' == <!--T:35-->
 
== '''Installation''' == <!--T:35-->
Line 109: Line 118:
 
Every release image of GhostBSD is available via [https://sourceforge.net/projects/ghostbsdproject/files/release/ SourceForge] site:
 
Every release image of GhostBSD is available via [https://sourceforge.net/projects/ghostbsdproject/files/release/ SourceForge] site:
 
* The latest releases images can be found on the [http://ghostbsd.org/download/ Download] page.
 
* The latest releases images can be found on the [http://ghostbsd.org/download/ Download] page.
* Our Torrent file are available from [http://www.gotbsd.net GotBSD] or from the [http://www.ghostbsd.org/torrent project page] (currently not up to date).
 
* You can also buy GhostBSD DVDs and USB flash drives from [http://www.osdisc.com/products/ghostbsd?affiliate=ghostbsd OSDisc.com].
 
 
All image checksums, hybrid ISO (DVD, USB) and torrent, are available [https://www.ghostbsd.org/download here].
 
  
 
=== How do I create a bootable USB pendrive? === <!--T:38-->
 
=== How do I create a bootable USB pendrive? === <!--T:38-->
Line 119: Line 124:
 
Up to version 4.0 separate USB images (with the ''.img'' extension) existed that were suitable for USB flash drives. Since version 10.1, GhostBSD releases so-called ''hybrid ISOs'' which can either be burned on a DVD or written on a flash drive. Select your preferred desktop and the right architecture and download the ISO. After downloading compare the checksum (optional) and write the content of the iso on a flash drive using one of the methods described below. Since the image itself can be slightly above 2&nbsp;GB in size, we suggest you use at least a 4&nbsp;GB pendrive.
 
Up to version 4.0 separate USB images (with the ''.img'' extension) existed that were suitable for USB flash drives. Since version 10.1, GhostBSD releases so-called ''hybrid ISOs'' which can either be burned on a DVD or written on a flash drive. Select your preferred desktop and the right architecture and download the ISO. After downloading compare the checksum (optional) and write the content of the iso on a flash drive using one of the methods described below. Since the image itself can be slightly above 2&nbsp;GB in size, we suggest you use at least a 4&nbsp;GB pendrive.
  
Here are examples using the console (use the filename of your ISO and make sure you replace the "sdX" with the right device's name!). The following requires root privileges (issue as user ''root'' or use ''sudo'').
+
==== On Linux ==== <!--T:40-->
  
==== On BSD ==== <!--T:40-->
+
<!--T:41-->
 +
Here's an example using the console (use the filename of your ISO and make sure you replace the "sdX" with the right device's name!). The following command needs root privileges (issue as user ''root'' or using ''sudo''):
 +
: <code>dd if=''GhostBSD19.10.iso'' of=/dev/''sdX'' bs=1M</code>
  
: <code>dd if=GhostBSD18.10-RC1.iso of=/dev/da0 bs=4m</code>
+
<!--T:83-->
 
+
There's also a good choice to use ddrescue, you can install the software 'gddrescue', then command as follows(need root privileges):
==== On Linux ==== <!--T:41-->
+
: <code>ddrescue -D --force ''GhostBSD19.10.iso'' /dev/''sdX''</code>
  
: <code>dd if=GhostBSD18.10-RC1.iso of=/dev/sdc bs=4M</code>
+
==== On BSD ==== <!--T:42-->
  
==== On Mac ==== <!--T:42-->
+
<!--T:43-->
 +
Here's an example using the console (use the filename of your ISO and make sure you replace the "daX" with the right device's name!). The following command needs root privileges (issue as user ''root'' or using ''sudo''):
 +
: <code>dd if=''GhostBSD19.10.iso'' of=/dev/''daX'' bs=1m</code>
  
: <code>dd if=GhostBSD18.10-RC1.iso of=/dev/disk2 bs=10240</code>
+
<!--T:84-->
 +
You can also do like this(need privileges):
 +
: <code>pkg install ddrescue</code>
 +
: <code>ddrescue -D --force ''GhostBSD19.10.iso'' /dev/''daX''</code>
  
==== On Windows ==== <!--T:43-->
+
==== On Windows ==== <!--T:44-->
  
 
<!--T:45-->
 
<!--T:45-->
Line 177: Line 189:
 
<!--T:56-->
 
<!--T:56-->
 
In GhostBSD software can be installed in three different ways:
 
In GhostBSD software can be installed in three different ways:
* [[OctoPkg]] is a GTK+ based tool to manage (search, install and uninstall) binary packages on BSD systems.
+
* [[Software Station]] is a GTK+ based tool to manage (search, install and uninstall) binary packages on GhostBSD.
* GhostBSD's package manager [[PKG]] can be used to manage packages using the command line.
+
* FreeBSD's package manager [[pkg|PKG]] can be used to manage packages using the command line. (In versions before 10.x, the old pkg_* tools were used which worked slightly differenty.)
* TrueOS' Ports is one of the most useful and unique features of GhostBSD compared to most Linux distributions.
+
* [[Ports|GhostBSD Ports]] is one of the most useful and unique features. It is based on FreeBSD ports collection. If installed, it can be found under /usr/ports and contains the Makefiles (think "recipes" if you are new to this concept) used to automatically build (fetch source code, configure, compile, install) a vast amount of software. A menu-driven system allows you to tweak compile options which makes this an easy to use but extremely flexible method of installing software.
 +
* See [[Application Management]] for more information.
  
 
=== Can I use Linux software on my GhostBSD system? === <!--T:57-->
 
=== Can I use Linux software on my GhostBSD system? === <!--T:57-->
  
 
<!--T:58-->
 
<!--T:58-->
First, you should know that most "Linux" software is really ''open source'' software. That is, it is freely available for many operating systems, not just Linux. There are some programs that make use of Linux exclusive features (we call those ''Linuxisms'') that won't run anywhere else. A very high amount of popular projects however care for ''portability'' and make sure that their software will build and work on multiple operating systems.
+
First, you should know that most "Linux" software is really ''open source'' software. That is, it is freely available for many operating systems, not just Linux. Most software that runs on Linux should also run on GhostBSD.
  
 
<!--T:59-->
 
<!--T:59-->
Even if the program that you are looking for is not available as a package it can probably be built on GhostBSD. Just give it a try if you know how to compile software yourself. You can always ask on the forums if you need help. Somebody in the community might be able to help you. If you get the program to work, tell us! If you want the program to be available as a package in the future, a [[wikipedia:en:FreeBSD_Ports|port]] needs to be created for it. For a lot of programs, this is not too hard to do and the FreeBSD community is very welcoming towards new porters.
+
Like FreeBSD, GhostBSD uses something called Linux Binary Compatibility. In a nutshell, that means you can run many Linux applications as-is. This [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/en_US.ISO8859-1/books/handbook/linuxemu.html section] of the FreeBSD Handbook explains this compatibility in more detail and describes when it does not work.
  
 
<!--T:60-->
 
<!--T:60-->
Like FreeBSD, GhostBSD provides something called Linux Binary Compatibility. In short, that means you can run many Linux applications as-is. This [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/en_US.ISO8859-1/books/handbook/linuxemu.html section] of the FreeBSD Handbook explains Linux Compatibility in more detail and describes what to do when things don't work.
+
However, you do not have to setup Linux Binary Compatibility on your GhostBSD system as it is already configured for you and should "just work".
  
<!--T:61-->
+
=== Does GhostBSD Support Adobe Flash plugin? === <!--T:61-->
GhostBSD comes with Linux Binary Compatibility already configured for you and it should "just work". You may want to install the '''linux_base-c7''' (based on Linux CentOS 7.4.1708) though that provides a lot of basic Linux libraries that might be needed by a lot of Linux applications. If your program needs any other libraries you'll have to provide them by manually copying them in (see [https://www.freebsd.org/doc/en_US.ISO8859-1/books/handbook/linuxemu-lbc-install.html this section] of the FreeBSD handbook).
+
  
 
<!--T:62-->
 
<!--T:62-->
Using GhostBSD 18.10-RC1, it is even possible to run ''64 bit'' Linux binaries. In general, it does provide a means of running Linux applications on GhostBSD.
+
Yes, but a native Adobe® Flash® plugin is not available for GhostBSD. However, a software wrapper for running the Linux® version of the plugin is available. This wrapper also provides support for other browser plugins such as RealPlayer®. Please note that Flash has been officially discontinued and is no longer supported by Adobe as of December 31, 2020. It should now be considered very insecure and unsafe to use.
  
=== Does GhostBSD Support Adobe Flash plugin? === <!--T:63-->
+
<!--T:63-->
 +
Look [[Installing Adobe Flash Plugin]]
  
<!--T:64-->
 
Yes, but a native Adobe® Flash® plugin is not available for GhostBSD. However, a software wrapper for running the Linux® version of the plugin is available. This wrapper also provides support for other browser plugins such as RealPlayer®.
 
  
<!--T:65-->
+
===Where is installed Software located ===
Look [[Installing Adobe Flash Plugin]]
+
  
== '''System and software updates''' == <!--T:66-->
+
All preinstalled Software are located on the Main Station: [[System Administration Utilities]].
  
=== How should I update GhostBSD to latest TrueOS updates? === <!--T:67-->
+
If you are looking for an application you have downloaded but you got no entry in your application list search also [[System Administration Utilities]].
  
<!--T:68-->
+
== '''System and software updates''' == <!--T:64-->
GhostBSD supports trueos-update command line to update the TrueOS base system.
+
  
<!--T:69-->
+
=== How should I upgrade GhostBSD? === <!--T:65-->
: <code>trueos-update fetch install</code>
+
  
== '''Network''' == <!--T:70-->
+
<!--T:66-->
 +
To upgrade GhostBSD, please use the Update Station! Do not use pkg to upgrade if you are not aware of how the updates work with GhostBSD, or your system will most likely get broken.
  
Preliminary Reading and set of Manual bring up Instructions  [http://www.wonkity.com/~wblock/docs/html/wireless.html  Wireless Instructions for FreeBSD] 
+
== '''Network''' == <!--T:68-->
=== My Wi-Fi doesn't work. === <!--T:71-->
+
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi]  The Wikipedia link explaining Wi-Fi terms.
+
  
<!--T:72-->
+
=== Why doesn't my WiFi work? === <!--T:69-->
Look if the ''wlan0'' interface is configured.
+
 
 +
<!--T:70-->
 +
Look if ''wlan0'' is configured.
 
: <code>cat /etc/rc.conf | grep wlan0</code>
 
: <code>cat /etc/rc.conf | grep wlan0</code>
  
<!--T:73-->
+
<!--T:71-->
 
If you have an output similar to:
 
If you have an output similar to:
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
Line 232: Line 241:
 
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"
 
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
Your Wi-Fi wlan0 interface is configured, but it might be down.
+
Your WiFi is configured, but it might be down.
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up</code>
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up</code>
Now bring it up and it should work.
+
Now it should work.
  
Scan for Wi-Fi access point signals
+
<!--T:72-->
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan</code>
+
If you have no output, this mean the GhostBSD network configuration system have not detected your WiFi card. The next step for you will be to look if GhostBSD have your WiFi drivers install.
<pre>SSID/MESH ID    BSSID              CHAN RATE    S:N    INT CAPS
+
innflux        2c:e6:cc:25:32:18    6  54M  -86:-96  100 ES  WME HTCAP
+
innflux        2c:e6:cc:25:68:78    6  54M  -71:-96  100 ES  WME HTCAP
+
</pre>
+
 
+
<!--T:74-->
+
If you have no output, this mean the GhostBSD network configuration system has not detected your Wi-Fi PCI card or Wi-Fi USB dongle. The next step for you, will be to look if GhostBSD has your Wi-Fi drivers installed. Do you have your kernel Wi-Fi driver loaded?  Check your loaded kernel modules with '''kldstat''' command.
+
: <code>sudo kldstat</code>
+
Manually load the necessary kernel modules for your devices.  Later edit  the file /boot/loader.conf for these kernel modules to be loaded automatically during bootup.  Unload the old version of urtwn driver with '''kldunload''' command.  Example below loads newer version of the usb urtwn &  pci rtwn modules combined into one rtwn kernel module after FreeBSD 11.0-Current revision r307529.
+
<code>
+
sudo kldunload if_urtwn.ko
+
sudo kldload  if_rtwn.ko if_rtwn_usb.ko  if_rtwn_pci.ko
+
sudo kldstat
+
</code>
+
 
+
List your PCI bus devices: <code>sudo pciconf -lv </code>  none2 is the RealTek RTL8188CE internal PCI Wifi interface.  alc0 is the Atheros 10/100 Megabyte Fast Ethernet PCI interface, hard wired RJ45 ethernet input.
+
 
+
<pre>
+
alc0@pci0:1:0:0: class=0x020000 card=0xff1e1179 chip=0x20621969 rev=0xc1 hdr=0x00
+
    vendor    = 'Qualcomm Atheros'
+
    device    = 'AR8152 v2.0 Fast Ethernet'
+
    class      = network
+
    subclass  = ethernet
+
none2@pci0:2:0:0: class=0x028000 card=0x818110ec chip=0x817610ec rev=0x01 hdr=0x00
+
    vendor    = 'Realtek Semiconductor Co., Ltd.'
+
    device    = 'RTL8188CE 802.11b/g/n WiFi Adapter'
+
    class      = network
+
</pre>
+
 
+
List your USB devices looking for a wireless Wi-Fi usb dongle :<code>usbconfig  or usbconfig dump_info or usbconfig list</code>
+
In the example "usbconfig" list below, there is '''NOT''' a WiFi usb dongle plugged into the computer system.
+
 
+
<pre>
+
ugen0.1: <Intel EHCI root HUB> at usbus0, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=SAVE (0mA)
+
ugen1.1: <Intel EHCI root HUB> at usbus1, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=SAVE (0mA)
+
ugen0.2: <vendor 0x8087 product 0x0024> at usbus0, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=SAVE (0mA)
+
ugen1.2: <vendor 0x8087 product 0x0024> at usbus1, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=SAVE (0mA)
+
ugen0.3: <Generic USB2.0-CRW> at usbus0, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=ON (500mA)
+
ugen0.4: <Importek TOSHIBA Web Camera> at usbus0, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=ON (500mA)
+
ugen1.3: <Maxtor OneTouch> at usbus1, cfg=0 md=HOST spd=HIGH (480Mbps) pwr=ON (2mA)
+
</pre>
+
 
+
Check your interface connections for 802.11 wireless.
+
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11</code>
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11</code>
 
In this case run0 is the WiFi drivers.
 
In this case run0 is the WiFi drivers.
Line 289: Line 255:
 
       media: IEEE 802.11 Wireless Ethernet autoselect mode 11a
 
       media: IEEE 802.11 Wireless Ethernet autoselect mode 11a
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
If you have an output similar from the example above, you need to configure the file ''/etc/rc.conf'' using the '''ee''' editor.
+
If you have an output similar from the example above, you need to configure the file ''/etc/rc.conf''.
 
: <code>sudo ee /etc/rc.conf</code>
 
: <code>sudo ee /etc/rc.conf</code>
Add these  2 lines in the file ''/etc/rc.conf'' (replace 'run0' by your drivers).
+
Add those line in the file ''/etc/rc.conf'' (Replace run0 by your drivers).
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
 
wlans_run0="wlan0"
 
wlans_run0="wlan0"
 
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"
 
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
 
+
[[wikipedia:en:Esc key|Esc]] and save the file. Now you need to restart <code>netif</code>.
Press the [[wikipedia:en:Esc key|Esc]] and save the file. Now you need to restart network interfaces <code>netif</code>.
+
: <code>sudo /etc/rc.d/netif restart</code>
once done, restart the network routing daemon:
+
Your wifi is now configured, you might have to turn wlan0 up.
: <code>sudo /etc/rc.d/netif restart</code>  or <code>service netif restart </code>
+
: <code>sudo /etc/rc.d/routing restart</code>  or <code>service routing restart </code>
+
 
+
Your wifi is now configured. You might have to set wlan0 interface up.
+
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up</code>
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up</code>
  
Last you can  manually run : <code>dhclient wlan0</code>
+
<!--T:73-->
You might have to kill off an existing running dhclient process, to manual test getting a dynamic IP address from a dhcp server.
+
If you have no output with <code>sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11</code>, this can mean your WiFi kernel Module is not compile in GhostBSD or your WiFi card is not yet supported by FreeBSD. Please fill out a [http://ghostbsd.org/problem_report problem report form] this will help us to make GhostBSD better.
: <code>killall dhclient </code>:
+
: <code>dhclient wlan0 </code>
+
  
Print the routing table information for IP4 addresses.  You can google search for useage of FreeBSD command <code> netstat </code>
+
=== Why doesn't the WiFi Network Manager work? === <!--T:74-->
Display the kernel routing information using <code>netstat -r </code> command.  In example "routing tables" below, only print out IP4 addresses.
+
  
: <code>netstat -4r </code>
 
<pre>
 
Routing tables
 
 
Internet:
 
Destination        Gateway            Flags    Netif Expire
 
default            gateway.innflux.co UGS        alc0
 
10.59.0.0/19      link#1            U          alc0
 
10.59.24.120      link#1            UHS        lo0
 
localhost          link#2            UH          lo0
 
</pre>
 
 
<!--T:75-->
 
<!--T:75-->
If you have no output with <code>sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11</code>, this can mean your Wi-Fi kernel module is not compiled into GhostBSD or your Wi-Fi card is not yet supported by FreeBSD. Then please complete a [http://ghostbsd.org/problem_report problem report form] Your report will help us to improve GhostBSD.
+
You might look at [[#Why my WiFi don't work?]] (from above). If you have your WiFi Configured and the WiFi Network Manager still not working.
 
+
=== Why the Wi-Fi Network Manager doesn't work? === <!--T:76-->
+
 
+
<!--T:77-->
+
You might look at [[#Why my Wi-Fi doesn't work?]] (from above). If you have your Wi-Fi Configured and the Wi-Fi Network Manager still not working.
+
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 scan</code>
 
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 scan</code>
 
You should have something similar to this:
 
You should have something similar to this:
Line 340: Line 283:
 
BSDHacker      5c:d9:98:69:df:2e  11  54M -15:-27  100 EP  HTCAP WPA WME WPS
 
BSDHacker      5c:d9:98:69:df:2e  11  54M -15:-27  100 EP  HTCAP WPA WME WPS
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
If not, create a new wlan device (replace run0 by your drivers; like rtwn0 or urtwn0 ).
+
If not <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan</code> should do it. Now you can setup to your network. From above you have none encrypted and encrypted WiFi network.
: <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 create wlandev run0</code>
+
If not <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan</code> should do it. Now you can setup your network. From above you have non-encrypted and encrypted Wi-Fi networks listed.  WLAN_6EFI is non-encrypted access point.    rogerwifi and BSDHacker are encrypted access points.
+
  
<!--T:78-->
+
<!--T:76-->
For a non-encrypted Wi-Fi network add the following lines to the file ''/etc/wpa_supplicant.conf''.
+
For a none encrypted WiFi network add the following to the file ''/etc/wpa_supplicant.conf''.
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
 
network={
 
network={
Line 353: Line 294:
 
}
 
}
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
For an encrypted Wi-Fi network add the following lines to the file ''/etc/wpa_supplicant.conf''.
+
For an encrypted WiFi network add the following to the file ''/etc/wpa_supplicant.conf''.
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
 
network={
 
network={
Line 360: Line 301:
 
         key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
 
         key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
 
         proto=WPA
 
         proto=WPA
         psk="yourpasword"
+
         psk="yourpassword"
 
}
 
}
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
 
After editing the /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf file, execute the wpa_supplicant command and the dhclient command.
 
<pre>
 
killall dhclient
 
wpa_supplicant -B -i wlan0 -c /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf
 
dhclient wlan0
 
</pre>
 
 
 
For more completed documentation see [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/network-wireless.html Wireless Networking].
 
For more completed documentation see [http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/network-wireless.html Wireless Networking].
  
<!--T:79-->
+
<!--T:77-->
If <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan</code> still not scanning, then please complete a [http://issues.ghostbsd.org/ problem report form]. Your report will help to improve GhostBSD.
+
If <code>sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan</code> still not scanning, please fill out a [http://ghostbsd.org/problem_report problem report form] this will help us to make GhostBSD better.
  
== '''Hardware''' == <!--T:80-->
+
== '''Hardware''' == <!--T:78-->
  
=== Does GhostBSD support the [[wikipedia:en:3D acceleration|3D acceleration]] of my graphics card? === <!--T:81-->
+
=== Does GhostBSD support the [[wikipedia:en:3D acceleration|3D acceleration]] of my graphics card? === <!--T:79-->
  
<!--T:82-->
+
<!--T:80-->
 
It depends on the hardware of your graphics card, to have support by GhostBSD (or not).<ref>[https://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/x-config.html#idp63187920 FreeBSD Handbook: Xorg Configuration#Caveats]</ref>
 
It depends on the hardware of your graphics card, to have support by GhostBSD (or not).<ref>[https://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/x-config.html#idp63187920 FreeBSD Handbook: Xorg Configuration#Caveats]</ref>
  
<!--T:83-->
+
<!--T:81-->
 
; ATI/Radeon:
 
; ATI/Radeon:
 
: 3D acceleration will not work on [[wikipedia:en:ATI Technologies|ATI]] or [[wikipedia:en:Radeon|Radeon]] cards until FreeBSD completes its [[wikipedia:Translation Table Maps|TTM]]<ref>[https://wiki.freebsd.org/Graphics#Kernel_drivers FreeBSD Wiki: Graphics#Kernel drivers]</ref> work (possibly in time for FreeBSD&nbsp;10.0)<ref>[https://wiki.freebsd.org/Ports/X11/Roadmap FreeBSD Wiki: Ports/X11/Roadmap]</ref>. You can still use these cards, but you will have to choose the 2D driver, and if that does not work, you will need to resort to using the Vesa driver.
 
: 3D acceleration will not work on [[wikipedia:en:ATI Technologies|ATI]] or [[wikipedia:en:Radeon|Radeon]] cards until FreeBSD completes its [[wikipedia:Translation Table Maps|TTM]]<ref>[https://wiki.freebsd.org/Graphics#Kernel_drivers FreeBSD Wiki: Graphics#Kernel drivers]</ref> work (possibly in time for FreeBSD&nbsp;10.0)<ref>[https://wiki.freebsd.org/Ports/X11/Roadmap FreeBSD Wiki: Ports/X11/Roadmap]</ref>. You can still use these cards, but you will have to choose the 2D driver, and if that does not work, you will need to resort to using the Vesa driver.
Line 392: Line 325:
 
: Yes! But [https://svnweb.freebsd.org/ports/head/x11/nvidia-driver/ nvidia-driver] must be loaded.<sup>[https://www.freebsd.org/doc/en/articles/compiz-fusion/nvidia-setup.html]</sup> The software can be installed easily, for example by using the (bxPKG/pkg) [[Package Manager]] or using ports as described on this page [[Nvidia driver installation]].
 
: Yes! But [https://svnweb.freebsd.org/ports/head/x11/nvidia-driver/ nvidia-driver] must be loaded.<sup>[https://www.freebsd.org/doc/en/articles/compiz-fusion/nvidia-setup.html]</sup> The software can be installed easily, for example by using the (bxPKG/pkg) [[Package Manager]] or using ports as described on this page [[Nvidia driver installation]].
  
== References == <!--T:84-->
+
===Is there a list of supported hardware?===
 +
 
 +
Search [[Hardware Supported List]]
 +
 
 +
==More tips and tricks==
 +
[[How To|Tips and tricks from users for users]]
 +
 
 +
== References == <!--T:82-->
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 
</translate>
 
</translate>
 +
 +
{|class="wikitable" style="width:95%;background:#FFFFFF; border:2px solid #008000;text-align:center;padding: 10px"
 +
|'''Back to the''' [[image:Icon Disti GhostBSD.png|50px|link=GhostBSD Wiki]]'''Wiki'''
 +
 +
|}
 +
 +
[[Category:Manuals]]

Latest revision as of 06:53, 7 February 2024

Welcome to Icon Disti GhostBSD.png FAQ.
Other languages:
Deutsch • ‎English • ‎español • ‎français • ‎日本語 • ‎русский • ‎Türkçe • ‎中文

This document aims to cover the most frequently asked questions concerning the GhostBSD operating system. Although originally intended to reduce bandwidth and avoid the same old questions being asked over and over again, FAQs have become recognized as valuable information resources.

Every effort has been made to make this FAQ as informative as possible; if you have any suggestions as to how it may be improved, please feel free to contact us.

Introduction[edit]

What is GhostBSD?[edit]

Briefly, GhostBSD is a UNIX®-like operating system. It works on AMD64 and Intel® platforms. GhostBSD is based on FreeBSD, which is based on U.C. Berkeley’s “4.4BSD-Lite” release, with some “4.4BSD-Lite2” enhancements. It is also based indirectly on William Jolitz’s port of U.C. Berkeley’s “Net/2” to the i386, known as “386BSD”, though very little of the 386BSD code remains. At this time, GhostBSD provides MATE desktop as default version, and a community release with XFCE desktop.

You will get more information here

On which FreeBSD branch is GhostBSD based on?[edit]

GhostBSD is based on the FreeBSD 13.2-STABLE branch.

The differences between GhostBSD and FreeBSD you will find here.

Who can use GhostBSD?[edit]

GhostBSD can be used by companies, researchers, data scientists, computer professionals, students, and home users all over the world in their work, education, and recreation.

What is the goal of the GhostBSD Project?[edit]

The goal of the GhostBSD Project is to combine the ease of use of a set of GTK desktops with security and flexibility of the underlying FreeBSD mechanisms. GhostBSD is a great tool to learn FreeBSD and start one’s adventure in the BSD world. GhostBSD may be used for any purpose and without strings attached.

Does the GhostBSD license have any restrictions?[edit]

Yes. Those restrictions do not control how you use the code, merely how you treat the GhostBSD Project itself. If you have serious license concerns, read the actual license. For the simply curious, the license can be summarized like this:

  • Do not claim that you wrote this.
  • Do not sue us if it breaks.

Can GhostBSD replace my current operating system?[edit]

For most users, yes.

Most people do not actually use an operating system. They use applications, as these are what really makes a computer useful. GhostBSD is designed to provide a desktop and full-featured environment for applications. It supports a wide variety of web browsers, office suites, email readers, graphics programs, programming environments, network servers, and just about everything else you might want. Most of these applications can be built using the FreeBSD Ports Collection.

If you need to use an application that is only available on one operating system, you cannot easily replace that operating system (this situation is referred to as vendor lock-in). However chances are that there is a very similar application on GhostBSD, however. If you want a solid office or internet server, a reliable workstation, or just the ability to do your job without interruptions, GhostBSD will almost certainly do everything you need.

If you are migrating to GhostBSD from some other UNIX®-like environment, you already know most of what you need to know. If your background is in graphic-driven operating systems such as Microsoft Windows® and older versions of MacOS®, expect to invest additional time learning the UNIX way of doing things.

Why is it called GhostBSD?[edit]

GhostBSD was developed as an operating system to hack on Gnome using BSD technology. After a while it became what was referred to as “Gnome hosted by BSD”, which means that Gnome is hosted on the FreeBSD system. Now that we support multiple GTK desktops it is more accurate to call it "GTK hosted by BSD".

What is the latest version of GhostBSD?[edit]

At this point in time, we are at version with Mate Desktop or XFCE Desktop.

Releases are usually made every few months.


GhostBSD users can keep their system up-to-date by using Software Station.

When are GhostBSD releases made?[edit]

The development team releases a new version more or less every couple of months. A testing period precedes each release in order to ensure that the addition of new features does not compromise the stability of the release.

How can I contribute?[edit]

There is a number of ways to contribute to the GhostBSD project:

  • If you possess abilities in programming and knowledge of the FreeBSD operating system, or you simply want to learn these things, you might want to consider joining the team by becoming an active developer. If you are feeling adventurous, you might want to try building GhostBSD, but you might as well join us on Telegram [1] to get in touch with the team and see what work currently has to be done.
  • If you are interested in helping form the artistic perspective, you could contribute fan art, logos, wallpapers, or help design/maintain the website layout. In this case, join us on Telegram [2].
  • If you have decent writing skills and know English quite well, you might want to help by writing documents and producing website and wiki content. Get in touch with us on Telegram [3].
  • If none of the above apply to you, you might just want to use GhostBSD and tell us about bugs you've discovered and the ideas you have about how to improve the system You can report them via forums. You might also consider simply spreading the word about GhostBSD!
  • On the Contribution page you will get more information.

If you feel like you might be able to help us grow and improve GhostBSD in any of the above ways (or any other way you can come up with), please contact us using the forums, or join us on Telegram [4].

Support[edit]

What’s the best way to get support?[edit]

At this point, the best ways to contact other GhostBSD users or developers are:

FAQ and User Handbook are under development. Questions can be answered on the forums and IRC will find their way to this page or the handbook.

Where can I find complete information on how to get things done in GhostBSD?[edit]

The first step should be, to search this wiki. We will collect all information and connect them to this wiki. For the most part, things can be done on GhostBSD the same way they are done on [FreeBSD]. This is why we encourage our users to check out the great FreeBSD Handbook in case of any doubts or questions. If any handbook linked to the Manuals page does not cover a specific area of your interest, or it seems GhostBSD differs from FreeBSD in some regard, the forums or IRC channel will probably hold the answers you seek.

=== On which FreeBSD branch should I try to reproduce GhostBSD bugs? On the same on which it is based. See above.

Installation[edit]

Where can I get GhostBSD?[edit]

Every release image of GhostBSD is available via SourceForge site:

  • The latest releases images can be found on the Download page.

How do I create a bootable USB pendrive?[edit]

Up to version 4.0 separate USB images (with the .img extension) existed that were suitable for USB flash drives. Since version 10.1, GhostBSD releases so-called hybrid ISOs which can either be burned on a DVD or written on a flash drive. Select your preferred desktop and the right architecture and download the ISO. After downloading compare the checksum (optional) and write the content of the iso on a flash drive using one of the methods described below. Since the image itself can be slightly above 2 GB in size, we suggest you use at least a 4 GB pendrive.

On Linux[edit]

Here's an example using the console (use the filename of your ISO and make sure you replace the "sdX" with the right device's name!). The following command needs root privileges (issue as user root or using sudo):

dd if=GhostBSD19.10.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=1M

There's also a good choice to use ddrescue, you can install the software 'gddrescue', then command as follows(need root privileges):

ddrescue -D --force GhostBSD19.10.iso /dev/sdX

On BSD[edit]

Here's an example using the console (use the filename of your ISO and make sure you replace the "daX" with the right device's name!). The following command needs root privileges (issue as user root or using sudo):

dd if=GhostBSD19.10.iso of=/dev/daX bs=1m

You can also do like this(need privileges):

pkg install ddrescue
ddrescue -D --force GhostBSD19.10.iso /dev/daX

On Windows[edit]

This solution comes from the Ubuntu help site, but it applies to GhostBSD as well. You can use one of two tools to create a bootable pendrive on Windows.

Graphical tool on Windows[edit]
  1. Download the desired ISO file
  2. Download the Disk Imager from http://sourceforge.net/projects/win32diskimager/
  3. Insert your flash media
  4. Note the drive letter assigned to your flash media
  5. Start Disk Imager
  6. Select the downloaded file and target device, and click "Write"
  7. Remove your flash media when the operation is complete
Command prompt tool on Windows[edit]
  1. Download the desired ISO file
  2. Download flashnul from http://shounen.ru/soft/flashnul
  3. Attach your USB drive
  4. Run flashnul -p
  5. Note the physical device number for the USB drive
  6. Run flashnul <number obtained in prior step> -L \path\to\downloaded.iso
  7. Answer "yes" if the selected destination device is correct
  8. Remove your USB drive when the command finished

Conclusion[edit]

After completing the above steps, the pendrive should hold a bootable GhostBSD system. Just reboot your machine and make sure you boot from the USB - it should then start a live session.

Where are the instructions for installing GhostBSD?[edit]

Installation instructions for versions beginning with GhostBSD 3.1 can be found in the handbook entry on Installing GhostBSD.

Software Installation[edit]

How do I install new software?[edit]

In GhostBSD software can be installed in three different ways:

  • Software Station is a GTK+ based tool to manage (search, install and uninstall) binary packages on GhostBSD.
  • FreeBSD's package manager PKG can be used to manage packages using the command line. (In versions before 10.x, the old pkg_* tools were used which worked slightly differenty.)
  • GhostBSD Ports is one of the most useful and unique features. It is based on FreeBSD ports collection. If installed, it can be found under /usr/ports and contains the Makefiles (think "recipes" if you are new to this concept) used to automatically build (fetch source code, configure, compile, install) a vast amount of software. A menu-driven system allows you to tweak compile options which makes this an easy to use but extremely flexible method of installing software.
  • See Application Management for more information.

Can I use Linux software on my GhostBSD system?[edit]

First, you should know that most "Linux" software is really open source software. That is, it is freely available for many operating systems, not just Linux. Most software that runs on Linux should also run on GhostBSD.

Like FreeBSD, GhostBSD uses something called Linux Binary Compatibility. In a nutshell, that means you can run many Linux applications as-is. This section of the FreeBSD Handbook explains this compatibility in more detail and describes when it does not work.

However, you do not have to setup Linux Binary Compatibility on your GhostBSD system as it is already configured for you and should "just work".

Does GhostBSD Support Adobe Flash plugin?[edit]

Yes, but a native Adobe® Flash® plugin is not available for GhostBSD. However, a software wrapper for running the Linux® version of the plugin is available. This wrapper also provides support for other browser plugins such as RealPlayer®. Please note that Flash has been officially discontinued and is no longer supported by Adobe as of December 31, 2020. It should now be considered very insecure and unsafe to use.

Look Installing Adobe Flash Plugin


Where is installed Software located[edit]

All preinstalled Software are located on the Main Station: System Administration Utilities.

If you are looking for an application you have downloaded but you got no entry in your application list search also System Administration Utilities.

System and software updates[edit]

How should I upgrade GhostBSD?[edit]

To upgrade GhostBSD, please use the Update Station! Do not use pkg to upgrade if you are not aware of how the updates work with GhostBSD, or your system will most likely get broken.

Network[edit]

Why doesn't my WiFi work?[edit]

Look if wlan0 is configured.

cat /etc/rc.conf | grep wlan0

If you have an output similar to:

wlans_run0="wlan0"
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"

Your WiFi is configured, but it might be down.

sudo ifconfig wlan0 up

Now it should work.

If you have no output, this mean the GhostBSD network configuration system have not detected your WiFi card. The next step for you will be to look if GhostBSD have your WiFi drivers install.

sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11

In this case run0 is the WiFi drivers.

run0: flags=8843<UP,BROADCAST,RUNNING,SIMPLEX,MULTICAST> metric 0 mtu 2290
       ether 00:1e:e5:e6:5d:1
       nd6 options=29<PERFORMNUD,IFDISABLED,AUTO_LINKLOCAL>
       media: IEEE 802.11 Wireless Ethernet autoselect mode 11a

If you have an output similar from the example above, you need to configure the file /etc/rc.conf.

sudo ee /etc/rc.conf

Add those line in the file /etc/rc.conf (Replace run0 by your drivers).

wlans_run0="wlan0"
ifconfig_wlan0="WPA DHCP"

Esc and save the file. Now you need to restart netif.

sudo /etc/rc.d/netif restart

Your wifi is now configured, you might have to turn wlan0 up.

sudo ifconfig wlan0 up

If you have no output with sudo ifconfig | grep -B 3 802.11, this can mean your WiFi kernel Module is not compile in GhostBSD or your WiFi card is not yet supported by FreeBSD. Please fill out a problem report form this will help us to make GhostBSD better.

Why doesn't the WiFi Network Manager work?[edit]

You might look at #Why my WiFi don't work? (from above). If you have your WiFi Configured and the WiFi Network Manager still not working.

sudo ifconfig wlan0 scan

You should have something similar to this:

SSID/MESH ID    BSSID              CHAN RATE   S:N     INT CAPS
rogerwifi       bc:14:01:e6:33:48    1   54M -23:-42  100 EP   WPS HTCAP WPA RSN WME
-               bc:14:01:e6:33:49    1   54M -20:-38  100 EP   HTCAP RSN WME
WLAN_6EF1       00:13:f7:c4:6e:f3   11   54M -12:-21  200 ES  
BSDHacker       5c:d9:98:69:df:2e   11   54M -15:-27  100 EP   HTCAP WPA WME WPS

If not sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan should do it. Now you can setup to your network. From above you have none encrypted and encrypted WiFi network.

For a none encrypted WiFi network add the following to the file /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf.

network={
        ssid="WLAN_6EF1"
        bssid=00:13:f7:c4:6e:f3
        key_mgmt=NONE
}

For an encrypted WiFi network add the following to the file /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf.

network={
        ssid="BSDHacking"
        bssid=5c:d9:98:69:df:2e
        key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
        proto=WPA
        psk="yourpassword"
}

For more completed documentation see Wireless Networking.

If sudo ifconfig wlan0 up scan still not scanning, please fill out a problem report form this will help us to make GhostBSD better.

Hardware[edit]

Does GhostBSD support the 3D acceleration of my graphics card?[edit]

It depends on the hardware of your graphics card, to have support by GhostBSD (or not).[1]

ATI/Radeon
3D acceleration will not work on ATI or Radeon cards until FreeBSD completes its TTM[2] work (possibly in time for FreeBSD 10.0)[3]. You can still use these cards, but you will have to choose the 2D driver, and if that does not work, you will need to resort to using the Vesa driver.
Intel
GhostBSD supports 3D acceleration on most Intel graphics cards. Due to the current KMS support[5], you will not be able to switch between the graphical console and a virtual console (using Crtl+Alt+F#) when using the "sc" console driver.
Switching between graphics and text consoles will work when using the "vt" console driver, and GhostBSD right now default to "vt" console.
Nvidia Graphics
Yes! But nvidia-driver must be loaded.[6] The software can be installed easily, for example by using the (bxPKG/pkg) Package Manager or using ports as described on this page Nvidia driver installation.

Is there a list of supported hardware?[edit]

Search Hardware Supported List

More tips and tricks[edit]

Tips and tricks from users for users

References[edit]

  1. FreeBSD Handbook: Xorg Configuration#Caveats
  2. FreeBSD Wiki: Graphics#Kernel drivers
  3. FreeBSD Wiki: Ports/X11/Roadmap
Back to the Icon Disti GhostBSD.pngWiki