树莓派3运行Node.js串口+Express服务的适配操作系统选型问询

Hey there! I get exactly what you're looking for—an OS that's easy to set up, has that smooth Ubuntu SSO-style SSH key management, and lets you get your Node.js server up and running without hassle. Let's break down the best options for you:

1. Ubuntu Server (Standard Edition, Not Core) #

This is hands-down the closest match to your needs:

• SSH Key Integration: During installation, you can directly link your Ubuntu SSO account, and it automatically sets up your SSH keys for you—no manual config headaches. You'll be able to SSH into the server right away without fumbling with authorized_keys files.
• Easy Node.js Installation: Forget the Snap limitations of Ubuntu Core. On standard Ubuntu Server, you have two solid options:
  • Use the official repo (quick and stable):

    sudo apt update && sudo apt install nodejs npm
    

  • Use nvm for flexible version management (great if you need specific Node.js versions):

    # Install nvm via the official script
    curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash
    source ~/.bashrc
    nvm install --lts
    

• Clean, Efficient Setup: The installer is straightforward, and you can opt for a minimal install to keep things lightweight—perfect for running your SerialPort + Express server without bloat.

2. Ubuntu Desktop (If You Need a Graphical Interface) #

If you ever need a GUI for managing SSH keys or other settings, Ubuntu Desktop fits the bill:

• It has a built-in SSH Key Manager in System Settings > Users > Authentication & Login, which lets you add/remove keys with a few clicks—just as intuitive as the SSO workflow you like.
• Node.js installation works the same way as Ubuntu Server, so you won't run into the Snap issues from Ubuntu Core.

Why Your Previous Options Didn't Work #

• Ubuntu Core: It's designed for embedded/IoT use cases where all apps are delivered via Snaps, which is why Node.js setup was so painful. It's not meant for general server development.
• Raspbian: While it's great for Raspberry Pi, it lacks the streamlined SSO integration and out-of-the-box Node.js setup that Ubuntu offers—hence the tedious manual config.

Quick Setup Tip #

When installing Ubuntu Server, make sure to select the "Import SSH identity from Ubuntu SSO" option during the setup wizard. This will pull in your existing SSH keys automatically, so you can start working immediately without any extra steps.

内容的提问来源于stack exchange，提问作者Itzik.B