Destination Linux 441: COSMIC Desktop Launches Into Beta
Nov 3, 2025
They dig into System76's new COSMIC desktop beta, its Rust-built apps, and the cross-distro Cosmic Sync idea. Discussion covers security, storage, and rollout concerns. Ubuntu’s new Canonical Academy certification is explained. Hardware talk includes RAM failures, a new Intel PC build, and networking headaches. There is also retro gaming nostalgia and a quick look at a chat client for local AI models.
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Run Memtest First For Random System Freezes
- Do run memtest when you see system freezes to spot failing RAM quickly.
- Ryan diagnosed Trident Z DDR4 failure with memtest, replaced RAM same day and resolved lockups and crashes.
Mesh Unit Miswire Caused Intermittent Internet
- Ryan miswired a mesh unit into his office Ethernet and created a local traffic jam that caused intermittent Internet slowdowns.
- He plugged the room's live wall Ethernet into a PoE switch, then moved the mesh unit into that path, which created conflicting routing and performance issues.
Canonical Academy Focuses On Hands On Ubuntu Skills
- Canonical launched Canonical Academy to provide hands-on Ubuntu certifications focused on real-world terminal and server skills.
- The exams simulate cloud-based real tasks rather than multiple-choice memorization, making certifications more job-relevant.