Question How would i get into using a Pi 4?

[Snappify]

My dad has a Raspberry Pi 4 that he doesn't use, and I want to try using it (for something I have no idea what yet, part of the reason I'm asking here) but I've mostly been scared I'm going to break it lol. What would be good for a beginner to do?

 

[kanewolf]

My dad has a Raspberry Pi 4 that he doesn't use, and I want to try using it (for something I have no idea what yet, part of the reason I'm asking here) but I've mostly been scared I'm going to break it lol. What would be good for a beginner to do?

One of the simplest things to do is to use it as an ad blocking DNS server with PiHole.

 

[SyCoREAPER]

Basic use you aren't going to break it. The microsd card can be reformatted if anything goes wrong. It's not until you start messing with the GPIO pins that you could mess something up.

A good first step if you weren't familiar with it, install any Linux distro that's supported that looks appealing. If you already know how to use Linux you can move onto making your own VPN, a PiHole as suggested above, DNS caching server, retro emulator.

Tons of options, but they all hinge on basic Linux knowledge.

 

[OldSurferDude]

I would advise starting from the very beginning, go to RaspberryPi.org That page will instruct you how to load the Raspberry Pi OS. Be sure to preconfigure the WiFi and enable VNC!!!! This will allow you to remote into the RPi without the need for keyboard, mouse and monitor.

While the other suggestions are good, they can apply to any linux machine. The special thing about RPi is access to digital I/O. This is what makes it fun. There are a number of good step-by-step tutorials you can follow. Start with one called "Blink" that flashes an LED.

My 12 year-old grandson has yet to ah heck is RPi and another friend's 13 year-old successfully connected a 1" TFT display to his.

I use my RPi to control a 25 zone irrigation system and I'll be using another to decode the signals in my HVAC system. These are integrated into a home automation system.

You're only limited by your imagination.

OSD