By definition, a netbook is small, light, typically under $500, and not exactly very powerful when compared to a standard sized laptop. However, unless you're specifically shopping for small and light, you can purchase a laptop with much better specs for $500.
If money isn't really the concern but you still want to stick to light and small, then there are higher end netbooks like t
his one - runs on an Atom processor, has Windows Vista Business with XP downgrade option, 2 GB of RAM, gigabit ethernet, express card slot, and nVidia 9300GS video with 256MB dedicated RAM. It still has a 10" display and weighs a measly 3.5 lbs. The only non-netbook thing about it is its price.
However, Buddha Jones is asking whether he can run CS4 and/or Lightroom on a netbook.
Seamuis is right on the money regarding performance and screen size being possible issues. Most netbooks just don't provide for the 1024x768 minimum requirements Adobe puts forth for both programs. Assuming it will install properly, you might just not be able to even fit the entire application window on the screen, therefore losing functionality.
Seamuis, I face the the same situation with our computers - Our home computers are dual core CPUs with 3GB of RAM on Vista 32, using 4GB flashdrives for ReadyBoost and Adobe cashing, and LR/CS4 isn't exactly a speed demon for us. LR on my Quad Core work laptop though, it literally flies.
I just cannot imagine using a netbook to post process images on the run. If all Buddha wants is to have a small computer he can transfer images to and preview perhaps using Irfanview, Picasa, or FastStone, then absolutely, it will work.
Oh, and when I said "most do" I should have separated memory size from type - I was not referring to 2GB of RAM, I was referring specifically to DDR2 RAM. Yes, the most common amount of RAM provided is 1 GB. Just go check out NewEgg's list.