How can I install FreeBSD on my Raspberry Pi?

FreeBSD offers pre-built images for the ARM and ARM64 architecture. The ARM64 version is working fine on Pi 3B+ and 4, I didn’t test on other models. Open the releases subfolder and go to ISO-IMAGES. Select the version you want to install (12.1 for example). Then, find the image corresponding to your Raspberry Pi model.

When was the first version of FreeBSD released?

FreeBSD is not a new system, far from that. The first release comes in 1993! (same year as Debian). The main goal is to offer a lightweight system, with critical part related to stability. So you can use it almost anywhere.

Do you need to format FreeBSD after installation?

FreeBSD will need to be formatted after installation. Step 4. Post Installation Configuration: The FreeBSD booting system will automatically start once the device has been correctly configured to boot from the FreeBSD image. A guide to the next process can be found here.

Is the FreeBSD system the same as Linux?

As I told you in introduction, FreeBSD is not a Linux-based system. Systems on Linux, are all using the same kernel and basic drivers, and then add many applications to offer a specific solution at the end. FreeBSD don’t use this base, they develop and release everything, including the kernel and drivers.

Which is the best operating system for Raspberry Pi?

FreeBSD is an open-source operating system, available on Raspberry Pi since 2014. It’s a good solution for any usage (server or desktop) It’s not based on Linux, as they develop their code for everything.

How do I get my Raspberry Pi to boot?

Connect the USB keyboard, monitor, and power source to the Raspberry Pi. Connect the power source last to avoid booting problems. Once the power source has been connected to the Raspberry Pi, the boot process will start.