Every once in a while, I find myself needing to quickly run linux or one of its derivatives. Here are some resources I’ve gathered that allow quick setup of a disposable linux server:
1. VirtualBox
Runs on your own machine as a VM. Internet connectivity. You’ll need to download an ISO and install it. You do get a GUI though.
Linux VM written in Javascript (how’s that for a project?). Free, terminal only, no networking. Pretty much good for playing around with the linux shell in a really disposable way.
Easily my favorite – hit a button and fill out a captcha for 35 minutes of Ubuntu 13.04. Or, pay a small fee and get the server for up to a week. Great customer service and good speeds. Terminal only, internet connectivity.
4. SimpleShell
Linited to 15 minutes, and doesn’t seem to have internet connectivity, despite what the site says. Still, for a free linux command line, it’s fast and has a very fast setup time.
5. And many more
A google search for “free shell” provides many links, dmoz being one of the more trustworthy (run by Mozilla).
Enjoy!
From Manhattan,
–Erty