Understanding Boot, Minimal, and DVD ISOs: Which One Should You Choose? Print

When installing a custom OS on your VPS in Nebula Core, you'll often see three main types of ISO images: Boot, Minimal, and DVD. Picking the right one can save you time, bandwidth, and headaches during setup.

This guide explains the differences in simple terms, including size, internet requirements, and best use cases. Perfect for beginners mounting custom ISOs in Nebula Core.

Quick Comparison Table 

Detailed Breakdown

1. Boot ISO (Netinstall / Boot Image)

   • What it is: A small installer-only image. It boots the installation wizard but downloads almost all packages from the internet (mirrors) during setup.
   • Size: Smallest (~1 GB).
   • Internet needed: Yes – you must have a stable connection while installing.
   • Pros:
     • Quick to download and mount in Nebula Core.
     • Always gets the latest packages.
     • Full flexibility in software selection (Server with GUI, Minimal, Workstation, etc.).
   • Cons:
     • Fails or slows down without internet.
     • Takes longer during installation.
   • Best for: VPS users with fast internet who want the latest software or specific custom setups.

2. Minimal ISO

   • What it is: A compact image that installs a very basic, non-GUI server environment (just enough to boot and run commands).
   • Size: Medium (~2 GB).
   • Internet needed: No – fully offline.
   • Pros:
     • Lightweight and fast to install.
     • Perfect clean starting point (add only what you need later with dnf/apt).
     • No bloat.
   • Cons:
     • Very limited software selection during install – usually locked to "Minimal Install".
     • You'll need to install extras (like a desktop, web server, etc.) manually after.
   • Best for: Server-focused VPS (game servers, web hosts, bots) where you want a lean, secure base.

3. DVD ISO (Full / Everything ISO)

   • What it is: The complete package – contains the full repository of packages locally.
   • Size: Largest (~8 GB or more).
   • Internet needed: No – completely offline.
   • Pros:
     • Full software selection during install (GUI, Server, Development tools, etc.).
     • No internet required at all.
     • Great for air-gapped or slow-connection environments.
   • Cons:
     • Takes longer to download/upload and mount.
     • Much larger file size (slower streaming in Nebula Core).
   • Best for: Users who want a full-featured desktop or complete offline install without adding packages later.

Which One Should You Choose in Nebula Core

• Fast internet + want flexibility? → Boot ISO
• Want a clean, minimal server? → Minimal ISO (most popular for VPS)
• No reliable internet or want everything ready? → DVD ISO
• Unsure? Start with Minimal – it's the sweet spot for most Nebula Core users. You can always add packages later.

Nebula Core Tip: When adding a custom ISO, use a direct public URL that ends in .iso. Larger files (DVD) may take longer to stream – test with a smaller Boot/Minimal first if possible.

How to Use These ISOs in Nebula Core

1. Log into Nebula Core via MyRack.
2. Go to ISO / Custom ISO > Add your chosen ISO URL.
3. Mount the ISO.
4. Reboot and install via Console.

(Full steps in our Custom ISO guide.)

Troubleshooting Quick Tips

• Install hangs without internet? → You picked Boot ISO – switch to Minimal or DVD.
• Limited options during setup? → You're using Minimal ISO – expected behavior.
• ISO too slow to load? → Try a smaller Boot or Minimal instead of DVD.
• After install no GUI? → Use Minimal? Install desktop manually (dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI" on Rocky/Alma).

Quick Recap (Cheat Sheet)

• Boot = Small + Internet = Maximum flexibility
• Minimal = Medium + Offline = Clean & lightweight
• DVD = Large + Offline = Everything included

Choose based on your internet speed and how much you want pre-installed.

Need Help?

• Unsure which ISO to pick? Screenshot your setup and DM us.
• More info: Check the official docs for your distro (Rocky, Alma, Ubuntu, etc.) or our Nebula Core support.

ISO mastery achieved!

Pick the right image and your VPS install will be smooth every time.