Using digital signage to interact with consumers and staff is a popular and productive strategy. Linux-based digital signage is one of the most common digital signage systems on the market today. It has numerous benefits, but Linux-based digital signage also has certain drawbacks that you should address before making a purchase. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons:
Pros
The Linux operating system is a free software product. Everything is out in the open, so don’t be afraid. Both the development process and documentation are affected. Therefore, Linux’s benefits are inseparable from those of free software as a whole. They include:
- Freely adjustable
Linux-based digital signage players such as one from LOOK DS benefit significantly from Linux’s tremendous versatility in terms of security, reliability, and resource usage.
- There’s no need for a window manager
Without a window manager, a media player may be built together in an incredibly resource-efficient manner. Error messages and installation notes are not shown on the screen by default. It’s possible to hide all alerts in log files using Linux, making them completely undetectable. The player automatically sends these files. Customers and experts alike will be delighted with this new service.
- Disable unnecessary services
You, not the operating system maker, determine which services operate. Because it saves money and enhances security, this is a good option. The complexity of your system grows as you add more components and services. It raises the risk of mistakes and makes it easier for hackers to infiltrate your system with malicious software. You want as little activity as possible on your digital signage system.
- Monitoring and error detection is made more accessible
You can route log files for almost every notice. Monitoring the system’s condition (memory, CPU) and regularly sending information to one or more recipients is now effortless, thanks to a simple scripting language.
Many tiny tools are included with Linux out of the box. These follow the Unix concept and operate well. That implies they are excellent at just one thing at a time. Collaboration, automation, and combinability are all hallmarks of the UNIX operating system architecture. Using onboard tools, you may do various tasks without purchasing additional software. A team of technicians do not require VNC, Remote Desktop, or TeamViewer if there is a problem with the computer. They use a text terminal to diagnose and repair the device remotely.
- Remote maintenance
When remote management has root access, it may reboot the computer or install new software without having to ask for permission beforehand. Maintaining a digital signage network from a distant location is critical. Nobody likes to spend money on a service call for every little issue with a piece of equipment. Every reboot or software update on an Android device requires the user’s approval if they don’t have root access.
Cons
With a Linux-based digital signage system, there are many possible drawbacks, such as:
- Compatibility
Compatibility is a crucial concern when utilizing a Linux-based solution. Many open-source and cross-platform solutions are available, but not all are compatible with the Linux operating system. These restrictions may limit the breadth of features and functionalities offered and the ability to interact with other applications.
- Damages by botnets
Security is one of the most overlooked and harmful consequences of a lack of sustainability in drivers, particularly in the Internet of Things. Many networked devices will be available for assault in the future, creating a wide range of attack options. Most manufacturers do not put enough effort into ensuring their products are secure, which is unfortunate.
As a result, the threat of new botnets is raised needlessly. Spam, attacks on other computers, and mining for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are only some of the activities carried out by these networks.
Quality control will be more critical in the future to prevent this. This, however, is a time and money sink. Open and accessible development processes like Linux allow for more efficient and cost-effective quality assurance. For decades, the distributions have shown it to us.
Final thoughts on Linux Digital Signage
It is still tough to run low-cost media players on Linux, but things are improving. It demands more personal work and investigation than is required, but the benefits exceed the drawbacks. It’s easy to see that things are looking up, and the future confirms that belief. The future of digital signage hardware will be more intriguing. Rockchip CPU-based hardware is presently recommended for use with Linux.
There are more options beyond the Raspberry Pi or Android devices that are poorly supported. It’s worth the time and effort to install the free operating system. With Linux, it’s easier to put up low-cost digital signage systems that are safe. The icing on the cake is the decreased reliance on third-party vendors. You have complete control over your gadgets.