NAS Image Installation
RDE provides an ISO image built on Debian 13 that turns any x86_64 machine into a full-featured NAS + cloud desktop.
Comparison with curl/deb Deployment
| curl / deb Install | NAS ISO Image | |
|---|---|---|
| Base System | Requires existing Ubuntu / Debian | Includes complete Debian 13 system |
| Dependencies | Some installed via network | All pre-installed, ready to use |
| Flatpak | First run requires setup for dependencies | Pre-installed, no extra setup needed |
| Use Case | Existing cloud server / VPS | Fresh hardware / repurposed PC as NAS |
| Install Method | One-line command | USB drive boot installation |
Download
Available on GitHub Releases.
System Requirements
- CPU: x86_64 architecture (Intel / AMD)
- RAM: Minimum 2 GB, recommended 4 GB+
- Disk: Minimum 16 GB, recommended 64 GB+ SSD
- Network: Wired network connection
Installation Steps
1. Create Bootable USB Drive
Prepare a USB drive of 4 GB or larger and write the ISO using:
Windows:
- Rufus — Select ISO file, partition type GPT, click Start
- Ventoy — Install Ventoy, then simply copy the ISO to the USB drive
Linux / macOS:
# Find USB drive device name (e.g., /dev/sdb)
lsblk
# Write ISO (replace device name — this will erase all data on the drive)
sudo dd if=rde-os.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress && sync
2. BIOS Setup
- Insert USB drive, press F2 / F12 / Del at boot to enter BIOS
- Set USB drive as the first boot device
- Save and exit, auto-boot from USB drive
3. Install System
Follow the Debian installation wizard to complete the system setup. After reboot, the RDE desktop starts automatically.
4. Access Desktop
Open a browser and navigate to http://<NAS_IP>:3080 to enter the RDE desktop.
Pre-installed Content
The ISO image includes these extras compared to curl deployment:
- Flatpak Runtime: Install Flatpak apps directly, no setup needed
- Complete System Dependencies: All system libraries and tools required by RDE
- Disk Management Tools: Convenient for managing multiple drives in NAS scenarios
- Network Configuration Tools: Static IP, bridges, and other common NAS network settings
FAQ
How to update RDE after ISO installation?
ISO-installed RDE can be updated via deb package:
wget https://github.com/ruizi-store/rde/releases/latest/download/rde_latest_amd64.deb && sudo apt install -y ./rde_latest_amd64.deb
Can I try it in a virtual machine?
Yes. Create a VM in VMware / VirtualBox / Proxmox, mount the ISO and install. Recommended: 2 cores, 4 GB RAM.
How does it compare to Synology / fnOS?
RDE is an open-source web desktop solution that runs on any x86 hardware. Compared to Synology and fnOS:
- Fully open source, no licensing restrictions
- Built-in Docker app store
- Web desktop experience, not just a NAS management interface