Looking for 256MB RAM host that doesn't immediately OOM on apt update

Actually I am searching for a VPS Host with 256MB RAM that survives the apt update Process without OutOfMemory Killer intervention, actually this is for a Challenge Project of minimal Resource Usage, actually the Goal is to run a functional Linux System with absurd Constraints, actually.

The Providers I tested so far:
- Contabo 512MB works but is too easy
- RackNerd 256MB OOMs immediately during apt
- Hostinger 256MB same Problem, actually

I need actually a Host that doesnt overcommit or has swap configured, or? The Kernel Parameters are also relevant for this Experiment, actually I will compile a custom Kernel if necessary but first I need reliable Hardware or?

U kids with ur "256MB" calling it challenge :-)

512MB is cheat mode. Real minimal is 128MB or less. Debian? Forget it. U need alpine or buildroot. My 486 had 4MB and served 16 nodes. No oom because no bloat.

Try Time4VPS, they allow custom iso. Or just use container lah no wait this thread hates that advice

Wah 256MB still can one. Alpine + zram + no recommends. Can.

My setup leh:
- alpine edge
- apk not apt lor
- custom kernel 4MB
- dropbear not openssh
- no systemd already

128MB also can. 64MB possible but sibei jialat. Your debian habit must kill one. Lightweight or nothing.

Time4VPS got iso upload. HostHatch cheap but oversell — https://hosthatch.com. Choose yourself lah

— Moderator notice —

Several posts in this thread have been removed for violating our "be helpful to newcomers" guideline. Dismissing a constraint challenge with "just use Docker" or "get more RAM" is not constructive.

That said: @craigdzir and @Chen provided actual minimal-RAM guidance. The winning approach historically posted here was Alpine with custom kernel on 128MB.

For reference: [code]CONFIG_EMBEDDED=y
CONFIG_EXPERT=y
CONFIG_SLUB_TINY=y

Time4VPS confirmed allows custom ISO uploads for this purpose. Contact their support first.

— Admin