Ubuntu always fits! No matter which hardware you want to drive and which operating concept you prefer - there is always a suitable Ubuntu. This article provides basic information about the status quo, frequency of publication and variants.
In 2004, the South African Mark Shuttleworth founded Canonical and developed the Linux distribution Ubuntu based on Debian. You can have Nelson Mandela explain the ambiguous Zulu word "Ubuntu" if you like. "Humanism" perhaps translates it appropriately ambiguously.
The Ubuntu distribution has clearly dominated the Linux desktop since about 2006: Linux on computers and notebooks has almost always been Ubuntu or a Ubuntu derivative like Linux Mint. Ubuntu does not take over the stable branch from the solid Debian base, but rather a mixture of "testing" and "unstable" for the sake of greater topicality. System components and programs in Ubuntu are always months up to date than with the arch-conservative Debian mother.
Regardless of some failed plans with their own interface (Unity) or the homemade window manager (Mir), Canonical with Ubuntu is a sustainable rock in the volatile biotope of Linux systems. Open source ideologues criticize some special Ubuntu paths such as Unity, Mir or the container format Snap for software distribution. Some partnerships with Microsoft (Ubuntu subsystem for Windows, secure boot signature for parallel installation) do not like every Linux freak. From a pragmatic point of view, there should be no doubt that the free and reliable Ubuntu systems are a stroke of luck for Linux users.
The appearance and life cycles of Ubuntu distributions are quite complicated, but the Ubuntu user is hardly bothered by expiration dates and upgrade obligations, least of all if he concentrates on long-term versions (LTS). The Ubuntu release cycle, which has been on time for years, looks like this:
• There are semi-annual intermediate versions in April and October. These receive the respective year with month as the version number - i.e. around 19.10 for the currently most current version (from October 2019). Such interim versions offer you the latest status of Linux kernel, desktop and software development, but are only valid for a relatively short time with nine months of support (STS versions: Short Term Support). If you want to join this brisk cycle, you have to do the upgrade to the next version every six months (with a three-month grace period). This can be largely automated via the system's "update management", but must not be forgotten.
• In April of all even-numbered years, the important LTS versions (long-term support) appear. These are the milestones for the Ubuntu community, as these versions are updated for up to five years. Attention: The often emphasized five years only apply to the main edition with Gnome. All other editions receive three years of support. Once the LTS version is installed, you as a user don't have to worry about anything for years. Most Ubuntu users, especially server administrators, basically wait for the LTS versions and leave the intermediate versions aside. The current LTS version was released in April 2018 and therefore has the version number 18.04. The penultimate LTS version 16.04 is still valid and the version 14.04 from 2014 has only recently expired. Numerous Ubuntu derivatives such as Linux Mint concentrate on the LTS versions and renew their system base in the cycle of Ubuntu LTS.
• LTS versions will get an additional version number after some runtime, such as 18.04.2. This is signaled by Point Release 2. The so-called “Point Releases” appear about every six months - not quite as punctually as LTS editions and intermediate versions. They correspond to the "Service Packs" of Windows and collect everything that an LTS version has received so far on renewed ISO installation media. The purpose of this measure is to avoid unnecessary downloads for new installations. Technically, it is technically possible to install an original Ubuntu 18.04 today, but the installation medium 18.04.2 saves download waiting times for the user and resources for the mirror server. The release points are irrelevant during operation because updates are installed automatically.
LTS versus STS and upgrade paths
The priority of Ubuntu LTS is undisputed and is clearly confirmed by distribution figures. Still, LTS isn't generally better than STS. The sustainable LTS version is developed on the basis of the three STS interim versions. An Ubuntu LTS is basically the result of the individual development stages of the three predecessors. The first STS version after an LTS version focuses on innovation (18.10), the next one focuses on performance optimization (19.04), while the third STS version (19.10) focuses on the subsequent LTS version ( coming soon on April 20th) will focus on stability.
Advantages and disadvantages of LTS: With the installation of an Ubuntu LTS you have three or five years of worry-free and fully automatic update support. However, the kernel and software remain in their original state as long as you do not initiate an upgrade. Exceptions to the software are the security-critical programs browser and mail client: Firefox and Thunderbird are constantly updated even under LTS versions.
Advantages and disadvantages of STS: The support of an Ubuntu STS is limited to nine months, which requires an upgrade to the next higher version every six months. STS versions are subject to lower stability requirements than LTS versions and can also contain one or the other bug. On the other hand, the kernel with drivers and hardware support, as well as software and desktop are up to date. If you prefer a new STS version for reasons of topicality, the central point of contact for this is https://ubuntu.com/download (Ubuntu main edition ), which with the bottom https://ubuntu.com/download/flavours also leads to all other Ubuntus like Kubuntu, Xubuntu.
Upgrade options: No Ubuntu is a dead end. LTS long-term versions are completely open and can switch to an STS interim version at any time if new software or kernel drivers for current hardware suggest this. The typical LTS upgrade is the one to the next higher LTS version - specifically the upgrade from April 18 to April 20, 2020.
STS-Ubuntu can only upgrade to the next intermediate version at a time and must consistently follow every step. A previously installed Ubuntu 19.04 had to be upgraded to 19.10 in autumn and to 20.04 next year. It then automatically becomes the LTS version.
What has changed since April 18?
To make it easier for you to decide between the LTS version and the latest version 19.10, we briefly summarize the development since April 18. In general, the intermediate versions do not bring fireworks of crashing innovations, but rather adjustments to the respective interfaces, newer software and, of course, a fresh Linux kernel with updated drivers. Ubuntu 19.04 with kernel 5.0 offers support for the still quite new AMD processor generations Ryzen 2 and Epyc 2. Starting with version 18.10, the energy saving measures were improved with kernel 4.18 in order to extend the battery life of notebooks. In the empirical test, we measured almost 10 percent longer runtimes compared to LTS version 18.04.
Due to the compression of boot modules, the latest versions start a little faster than the LTS version, but only if a modern processor is available. On older computers, on the other hand, compression is counterproductive because the slow CPU, which first has to unpack the modules, becomes a bottleneck: older LTS versions boot faster on older devices.
As of version 18.10, the service of the "Live Patches" has found its way into the graphical user interface under "Applications & Updates". This should be interpreted as an early preparation for the next LTS version 20.04, because intermediate versions such as 18.10 and 19.04 do not receive live patches. This technology is motivated by security-related kernel patches that actually require a restart. Live patches temporarily fill the security holes during operation so that disruptive restarts can be postponed. It is a service for servers in continuous operation. Live patches are irrelevant on PCs and notebooks that are restarted every day.
The intermediate version 19.10 was released on October 17, 2019, the next LTS version 20.04 will be released in April 2020. From version 19.10, Ubuntu already offers the official Nvidia graphics driver as a package on the installation media with all official variants. The user can therefore already decide during installation whether he wants to integrate the manufacturer driver. Even more: the driver can also be activated in the live system. With the updated Gnome desktop 3.34, Gnome components such as the file manager ("Nautilus") and the Gnome Display Manager (for better multi-monitor support) are also being revised.
Alpha versions in the form of daily builds are already available from version 19.10 ("Eoan Ermine"), but only from the main edition with Gnome desktop. Our short test from 19.10 (see figure) did not reveal any noteworthy changes compared to the predecessor, neither during installation nor during operation. Officially, the system should start a little faster and the desktop offers a few new options for its configuration.
The Ubuntu farewell of 32 bits is practically complete: Since version 19.04, the small editions Xubuntu and Lubuntu have also been without 32 bits. However, this does not apply to version 18.04: Because here all Ubuntus, except the main Gnome edition, can still be found in 32 bits.
You can reach 32-bit versions from April 18 at https://ubuntu.com/download.
32 bit is more economical in memory consumption. However, there is almost never a technical need for a 32-bit system, even on older computers. If in doubt, you can display the CPU architecture of your computer under Linux with the terminal command lscpu or in the system settings, under Windows with the hotkey Win-Pause.
64-bit systems have undisputed advantages: They master Uefi / GPT (important for parallel installation in addition to Windows), overcome the two TB limit for hard disks and natively (significantly) address more than 4 GB RAM. By the way, 64-bit systems start both 64-bit and 32-bit software. An announcement by Canonicals to stop supporting 32-bit programs in the future (from version 19.10) was withdrawn after violent protests from the gaming corner (Steam).
In addition to the desktop editions Ubuntu, Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie and Ubuntu Mate, there is also an Ubuntu Kylin and Ubuntu Studio (special editions for Chinese users and for audio/video production), which we do not consider in this dossier. The six Ubuntus characterized below differ significantly in their operation, but due to current developments, they are no longer as clear as before: The decision between Xubuntu, Lubuntu and Mate in LTS version 18.04 is still quite clear due to different hardware requirements but in the latest versions on the question of taste.
Ubuntu should find relatively current hardware from a dual-core CPU, 3D graphics chip and 4 GB RAM. The Gnome interface is modern, chic and absolutely suitable for beginners. In contrast to the original, Canonical equips Gnome with a positionable favorites bar (“Dock”) and a desktop as file storage. The Gnome Tweaks tool (“optimizations”) and the Gnome extensions are traditionally responsible for deeper Gnome adjustments.
Kubuntu with the sophisticated KDE Plasma was formerly considered to be particularly resource-hungry, but has now leveled off at the level of the main edition. More up-to-date hardware and 4 GB RAM are also recommended here. KDE Plasma is meticulously and extensively adjustable and offers many specialties with its workspace "activities", KDE Connect (for smartphone connections) or encrypted Vaults containers. Kubuntu is the Ubuntu for KDE fans and desktop hobbyists.
Ubuntu Budgie delivers a tidy, high-contrast and attractive desktop with (still) medium hardware requirements (800 MB RAM). It is worthwhile for beginners, aesthetes and notebook users, but not for desktop hobbyists. The tendency towards hermetic budgie lacks intuitive invitations for adaptation via the context menu that you are used to from other surfaces.
Ubuntu Mate is now no longer a real lightweight with 500 to 700 MB RAM (April 18 / April 19). 2 GB RAM is recommended. The desktop serves users who prefer a classic operating concept beyond Gnome 3.x or KDE Plasma and want it to be prettier than the somewhat stale Xubuntu. Ubuntu Mate offers a handsome, but unpretentious all-purpose desktop that beginners, those switching to and pragmatists can cope with.
Xubuntu with the XFCE desktop has recently become the most economical Ubuntu and also supports weaker hardware such as netbooks with a GB of RAM. Xubuntu is also suitable for beginners, but benefits from some adjustment work. XFCE is a conservative but absolutely sophisticated interface with a classic start menu and well-configurable system bars.
In the LTS version 18.04, Lubuntu is the smallest variant of the Ubuntu family - even more undemanding than Xubuntu. With the simple but functional LXDE desktop, it only has 200 MB of personal use and is a candidate for elderly computers. However, Lubuntu has changed the desktop since version 18.10: With the much prettier LXQT desktop, it is now almost 500 MB RAM above a Xubuntu.
Ubuntu derivatives and Linux Mint
In addition to the official flavors, numerous derivatives have grown from the rock-solid Ubuntu base: Bodhi Linux, Chromium-OS, Elementary-OS and Linux Mint, Peppermint-OS, Voyager-OS, and Zorin-OS - to name just the best known. They all use the current Ubuntu LTS as a base, sometimes also the Ubuntu STS versions. The main claim of such derivatives mostly lies in their own or individually arranged user interface. In addition, unofficial derivatives do not completely take over the Ubuntu substructure like the official variants but mix it with software packages that have been customized or that come from external sources.
One can disagree about the unique selling potential of some Ubuntu derivatives. However, Linux Mint with Cinnamon is undisputedly the friendliest interface for Windows users (who also love Linux fans), and a Bodhi Linux has a surface that takes some getting used to, but it makes the Ubuntu substructure the fastest operating system known to us.
In 2004, the South African Mark Shuttleworth founded Canonical and developed the Linux distribution Ubuntu based on Debian. You can have Nelson Mandela explain the ambiguous Zulu word "Ubuntu" if you like. "Humanism" perhaps translates it appropriately ambiguously.
The Ubuntu distribution has clearly dominated the Linux desktop since about 2006: Linux on computers and notebooks has almost always been Ubuntu or a Ubuntu derivative like Linux Mint. Ubuntu does not take over the stable branch from the solid Debian base, but rather a mixture of "testing" and "unstable" for the sake of greater topicality. System components and programs in Ubuntu are always months up to date than with the arch-conservative Debian mother.
Regardless of some failed plans with their own interface (Unity) or the homemade window manager (Mir), Canonical with Ubuntu is a sustainable rock in the volatile biotope of Linux systems. Open source ideologues criticize some special Ubuntu paths such as Unity, Mir or the container format Snap for software distribution. Some partnerships with Microsoft (Ubuntu subsystem for Windows, secure boot signature for parallel installation) do not like every Linux freak. From a pragmatic point of view, there should be no doubt that the free and reliable Ubuntu systems are a stroke of luck for Linux users.
The appearance and life cycles of Ubuntu distributions are quite complicated, but the Ubuntu user is hardly bothered by expiration dates and upgrade obligations, least of all if he concentrates on long-term versions (LTS). The Ubuntu release cycle, which has been on time for years, looks like this:
• There are semi-annual intermediate versions in April and October. These receive the respective year with month as the version number - i.e. around 19.10 for the currently most current version (from October 2019). Such interim versions offer you the latest status of Linux kernel, desktop and software development, but are only valid for a relatively short time with nine months of support (STS versions: Short Term Support). If you want to join this brisk cycle, you have to do the upgrade to the next version every six months (with a three-month grace period). This can be largely automated via the system's "update management", but must not be forgotten.
• In April of all even-numbered years, the important LTS versions (long-term support) appear. These are the milestones for the Ubuntu community, as these versions are updated for up to five years. Attention: The often emphasized five years only apply to the main edition with Gnome. All other editions receive three years of support. Once the LTS version is installed, you as a user don't have to worry about anything for years. Most Ubuntu users, especially server administrators, basically wait for the LTS versions and leave the intermediate versions aside. The current LTS version was released in April 2018 and therefore has the version number 18.04. The penultimate LTS version 16.04 is still valid and the version 14.04 from 2014 has only recently expired. Numerous Ubuntu derivatives such as Linux Mint concentrate on the LTS versions and renew their system base in the cycle of Ubuntu LTS.
• LTS versions will get an additional version number after some runtime, such as 18.04.2. This is signaled by Point Release 2. The so-called “Point Releases” appear about every six months - not quite as punctually as LTS editions and intermediate versions. They correspond to the "Service Packs" of Windows and collect everything that an LTS version has received so far on renewed ISO installation media. The purpose of this measure is to avoid unnecessary downloads for new installations. Technically, it is technically possible to install an original Ubuntu 18.04 today, but the installation medium 18.04.2 saves download waiting times for the user and resources for the mirror server. The release points are irrelevant during operation because updates are installed automatically.
LTS versus STS and upgrade paths
The priority of Ubuntu LTS is undisputed and is clearly confirmed by distribution figures. Still, LTS isn't generally better than STS. The sustainable LTS version is developed on the basis of the three STS interim versions. An Ubuntu LTS is basically the result of the individual development stages of the three predecessors. The first STS version after an LTS version focuses on innovation (18.10), the next one focuses on performance optimization (19.04), while the third STS version (19.10) focuses on the subsequent LTS version ( coming soon on April 20th) will focus on stability.
Advantages and disadvantages of LTS: With the installation of an Ubuntu LTS you have three or five years of worry-free and fully automatic update support. However, the kernel and software remain in their original state as long as you do not initiate an upgrade. Exceptions to the software are the security-critical programs browser and mail client: Firefox and Thunderbird are constantly updated even under LTS versions.
Advantages and disadvantages of STS: The support of an Ubuntu STS is limited to nine months, which requires an upgrade to the next higher version every six months. STS versions are subject to lower stability requirements than LTS versions and can also contain one or the other bug. On the other hand, the kernel with drivers and hardware support, as well as software and desktop are up to date. If you prefer a new STS version for reasons of topicality, the central point of contact for this is https://ubuntu.com/download (Ubuntu main edition ), which with the bottom https://ubuntu.com/download/flavours also leads to all other Ubuntus like Kubuntu, Xubuntu.
Upgrade options: No Ubuntu is a dead end. LTS long-term versions are completely open and can switch to an STS interim version at any time if new software or kernel drivers for current hardware suggest this. The typical LTS upgrade is the one to the next higher LTS version - specifically the upgrade from April 18 to April 20, 2020.
STS-Ubuntu can only upgrade to the next intermediate version at a time and must consistently follow every step. A previously installed Ubuntu 19.04 had to be upgraded to 19.10 in autumn and to 20.04 next year. It then automatically becomes the LTS version.
What has changed since April 18?
To make it easier for you to decide between the LTS version and the latest version 19.10, we briefly summarize the development since April 18. In general, the intermediate versions do not bring fireworks of crashing innovations, but rather adjustments to the respective interfaces, newer software and, of course, a fresh Linux kernel with updated drivers. Ubuntu 19.04 with kernel 5.0 offers support for the still quite new AMD processor generations Ryzen 2 and Epyc 2. Starting with version 18.10, the energy saving measures were improved with kernel 4.18 in order to extend the battery life of notebooks. In the empirical test, we measured almost 10 percent longer runtimes compared to LTS version 18.04.
Due to the compression of boot modules, the latest versions start a little faster than the LTS version, but only if a modern processor is available. On older computers, on the other hand, compression is counterproductive because the slow CPU, which first has to unpack the modules, becomes a bottleneck: older LTS versions boot faster on older devices.
As of version 18.10, the service of the "Live Patches" has found its way into the graphical user interface under "Applications & Updates". This should be interpreted as an early preparation for the next LTS version 20.04, because intermediate versions such as 18.10 and 19.04 do not receive live patches. This technology is motivated by security-related kernel patches that actually require a restart. Live patches temporarily fill the security holes during operation so that disruptive restarts can be postponed. It is a service for servers in continuous operation. Live patches are irrelevant on PCs and notebooks that are restarted every day.
The intermediate version 19.10 was released on October 17, 2019, the next LTS version 20.04 will be released in April 2020. From version 19.10, Ubuntu already offers the official Nvidia graphics driver as a package on the installation media with all official variants. The user can therefore already decide during installation whether he wants to integrate the manufacturer driver. Even more: the driver can also be activated in the live system. With the updated Gnome desktop 3.34, Gnome components such as the file manager ("Nautilus") and the Gnome Display Manager (for better multi-monitor support) are also being revised.
Alpha versions in the form of daily builds are already available from version 19.10 ("Eoan Ermine"), but only from the main edition with Gnome desktop. Our short test from 19.10 (see figure) did not reveal any noteworthy changes compared to the predecessor, neither during installation nor during operation. Officially, the system should start a little faster and the desktop offers a few new options for its configuration.
The Ubuntu farewell of 32 bits is practically complete: Since version 19.04, the small editions Xubuntu and Lubuntu have also been without 32 bits. However, this does not apply to version 18.04: Because here all Ubuntus, except the main Gnome edition, can still be found in 32 bits.
You can reach 32-bit versions from April 18 at https://ubuntu.com/download.
32 bit is more economical in memory consumption. However, there is almost never a technical need for a 32-bit system, even on older computers. If in doubt, you can display the CPU architecture of your computer under Linux with the terminal command lscpu or in the system settings, under Windows with the hotkey Win-Pause.
64-bit systems have undisputed advantages: They master Uefi / GPT (important for parallel installation in addition to Windows), overcome the two TB limit for hard disks and natively (significantly) address more than 4 GB RAM. By the way, 64-bit systems start both 64-bit and 32-bit software. An announcement by Canonicals to stop supporting 32-bit programs in the future (from version 19.10) was withdrawn after violent protests from the gaming corner (Steam).
In addition to the desktop editions Ubuntu, Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie and Ubuntu Mate, there is also an Ubuntu Kylin and Ubuntu Studio (special editions for Chinese users and for audio/video production), which we do not consider in this dossier. The six Ubuntus characterized below differ significantly in their operation, but due to current developments, they are no longer as clear as before: The decision between Xubuntu, Lubuntu and Mate in LTS version 18.04 is still quite clear due to different hardware requirements but in the latest versions on the question of taste.
Ubuntu should find relatively current hardware from a dual-core CPU, 3D graphics chip and 4 GB RAM. The Gnome interface is modern, chic and absolutely suitable for beginners. In contrast to the original, Canonical equips Gnome with a positionable favorites bar (“Dock”) and a desktop as file storage. The Gnome Tweaks tool (“optimizations”) and the Gnome extensions are traditionally responsible for deeper Gnome adjustments.
Kubuntu with the sophisticated KDE Plasma was formerly considered to be particularly resource-hungry, but has now leveled off at the level of the main edition. More up-to-date hardware and 4 GB RAM are also recommended here. KDE Plasma is meticulously and extensively adjustable and offers many specialties with its workspace "activities", KDE Connect (for smartphone connections) or encrypted Vaults containers. Kubuntu is the Ubuntu for KDE fans and desktop hobbyists.
Ubuntu Budgie delivers a tidy, high-contrast and attractive desktop with (still) medium hardware requirements (800 MB RAM). It is worthwhile for beginners, aesthetes and notebook users, but not for desktop hobbyists. The tendency towards hermetic budgie lacks intuitive invitations for adaptation via the context menu that you are used to from other surfaces.
Ubuntu Mate is now no longer a real lightweight with 500 to 700 MB RAM (April 18 / April 19). 2 GB RAM is recommended. The desktop serves users who prefer a classic operating concept beyond Gnome 3.x or KDE Plasma and want it to be prettier than the somewhat stale Xubuntu. Ubuntu Mate offers a handsome, but unpretentious all-purpose desktop that beginners, those switching to and pragmatists can cope with.
Xubuntu with the XFCE desktop has recently become the most economical Ubuntu and also supports weaker hardware such as netbooks with a GB of RAM. Xubuntu is also suitable for beginners, but benefits from some adjustment work. XFCE is a conservative but absolutely sophisticated interface with a classic start menu and well-configurable system bars.
In the LTS version 18.04, Lubuntu is the smallest variant of the Ubuntu family - even more undemanding than Xubuntu. With the simple but functional LXDE desktop, it only has 200 MB of personal use and is a candidate for elderly computers. However, Lubuntu has changed the desktop since version 18.10: With the much prettier LXQT desktop, it is now almost 500 MB RAM above a Xubuntu.
Ubuntu derivatives and Linux Mint
In addition to the official flavors, numerous derivatives have grown from the rock-solid Ubuntu base: Bodhi Linux, Chromium-OS, Elementary-OS and Linux Mint, Peppermint-OS, Voyager-OS, and Zorin-OS - to name just the best known. They all use the current Ubuntu LTS as a base, sometimes also the Ubuntu STS versions. The main claim of such derivatives mostly lies in their own or individually arranged user interface. In addition, unofficial derivatives do not completely take over the Ubuntu substructure like the official variants but mix it with software packages that have been customized or that come from external sources.
One can disagree about the unique selling potential of some Ubuntu derivatives. However, Linux Mint with Cinnamon is undisputedly the friendliest interface for Windows users (who also love Linux fans), and a Bodhi Linux has a surface that takes some getting used to, but it makes the Ubuntu substructure the fastest operating system known to us.
0 Comments:
Post a Comment