Ubuntu is one of the most popular and user-friendly Linux distributions, widely used for both personal and professional purposes. Developed by Canonical, it has gained significant traction in the open-source community. Whether you’re a beginner to Linux or an experienced user, here are ten things you should know about Ubuntu.

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is a free, open-source operating system built on the Linux kernel. It’s based on Debian, another popular Linux distribution, but aims to be more user-friendly. Since its first release in 2004, Ubuntu has become one of the leading operating systems, particularly favored by developers, system administrators, and casual users who want an alternative to Windows or macOS.

Ubuntu is Free and Open Source

One of the core values of Ubuntu is that it is free to use and modify. Users can download it, install it, and share it without any cost. Being open-source means that the code is available to anyone, and developers around the world can contribute to its improvement. This openness has resulted in a large, collaborative community that helps maintain the system.

Ubuntu is Easy to Use

One of the main reasons for Ubuntu’s popularity is its ease of use, especially for users new to Linux. With a polished desktop environment, Ubuntu provides an experience that is similar to other operating systems like Windows or macOS. The default desktop environment, GNOME, offers a clean, simple interface with easy access to apps and settings.

Software and App Store

Ubuntu comes with an integrated app store called the Ubuntu Software Center. This allows users to easily find, install, and manage software from a large repository of both free and proprietary applications. The installation process is straightforward, similar to downloading apps from the Play Store on Android or the App Store on iOS.

Regular Releases and Long-Term Support (LTS)

Ubuntu follows a strict release schedule. A new version is released every six months in April and October, with names based on animals and adjectives (for example, “Bionic Beaver” or “Focal Fossa”). However, every two years, Canonical releases a Long-Term Support (LTS) version, which is supported with security and maintenance updates for five years. LTS versions are typically favored for servers and business use.

Customizable and Flexible

Unlike some other operating systems, Ubuntu allows for extensive customization. From changing the look and feel of the desktop to altering system functionalities, Ubuntu offers flexibility to users who want to tweak their setup. You can choose from different desktop environments (like KDE, XFCE, or MATE) or modify themes, icons, and window managers to suit your preferences.

Security and Privacy Focused

Ubuntu is known for being highly secure. Since it’s based on Linux, it has built-in protections against viruses and malware. Ubuntu uses a strict permissions system, which means that unauthorized software or users can’t easily alter critical system components. Security patches are also released frequently, ensuring that your system stays safe. Additionally, Canonical is committed to protecting user privacy, especially after introducing more transparent telemetry options in recent years.

Great for Developers

Ubuntu is a go-to operating system for developers. It supports a wide range of programming languages and tools. With powerful package management via apt, a vast software repository, and a wealth of development tools, Ubuntu is an ideal platform for web development, mobile development, and even AI and data science. Popular software like Python, Docker, Node.js, and Visual Studio Code are easily accessible on Ubuntu.

Ideal for Servers and Cloud

Beyond being a desktop OS, Ubuntu is also extensively used for servers. In fact, Ubuntu is the most popular operating system for cloud computing and is supported by major cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. Its server version is lightweight and efficient, making it perfect for web hosting, databases, and running containers and virtual machines.

Thriving Community and Support

One of the best things about Ubuntu is its vast, vibrant community. If you encounter issues, there are forums, Q&A websites like Ask Ubuntu, and countless blogs and tutorials to guide you. Canonical also offers paid professional support for businesses that require enterprise-grade solutions. The community’s support is one of the biggest strengths of Ubuntu, as you’re never alone when troubleshooting or learning.

Conclusion

Ubuntu’s versatility, ease of use, and strong support system make it one of the best Linux distributions available. Whether you’re a casual user, a developer, or running a server, Ubuntu provides a stable, secure, and customizable environment for all your needs. With a thriving community and regular updates, Ubuntu continues to be a favorite in the open-source world.