If you downloaded it in 2023 then it's likely a really old version of Linux mint, I'd advise dowloading the latest release from their site and reflashing.
this post was submitted on 16 May 2025
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Data written to flash memory degrades over time when unpowered. This is proportional to the amount of time it’s sat unpowered and the number of write cycles the charge coupled device has endured.
Now you know and can decide if you should make a new installer or just keep using the netinst usb that’s been clacking around next to your keys for years.
I reflashed it about half an hour ago.
He’ll yeah
Even though you already reflashed, this knowledge can help you make informed decisions about flash storage lifetimes: extend them when the thing is constantly powered up, derate according to the unpowered time when the thing is unplugged.
Fedora Atomic gang stays winning
I just installed and upgraded to current with the first kinoite iso they ever put out. Flawless. Took like 5 minutes tops, zero tinkering and special instructions.
I recommend bazzite for the lowly g*mer. It's based on fedora atomic. Everything is already preconfiged by eggheads for your convenience and best performance, and it will not break.
Yep. I'm running bluefin. I just went from a fedora 41 base to 42. Didn't get a notification or have to watch progress bars, just rebooted into fresh new base. Nothing wierd happened. Nothing broke. So good. 
There is nothing about the tech they are using that makes it a requirement to base of fedora, either, so in the future it is possible to have the same experience under linux mint.
Unless you're having problems making a new USB installer there's been enough changes that it'd be faster to make a new one instead of downloading, updating, and restarting constantly for the next few days.
I guess so...
Just reflash it lazy bum it will only take like a second
It did, in fact, only take a few minutes, but that's longer than a second so there
Doubtful but OK
It's going to be quicker to re-flash it to the latest version than it is to install all the updates since 2023.
Did you store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight?
I store my bitcoins in my lawn so the kids can play with them 
On a shelf in my bedroom away from direct sunlight, but I do sometimes complain about the heat and humidity, so maybe not? I've kept other electronics there without any issue, so I wouldn't think the USB has been like irreparably warped and will cause my computer to explode if I plug it in.
I'm assuming (slash hoping) the original post was a joke. It will certainly be fine.
