{"id":182222,"date":"2026-02-18T22:34:15","date_gmt":"2026-02-18T21:34:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/?p=182222"},"modified":"2026-08-09T19:42:19","modified_gmt":"2026-08-09T18:42:19","slug":"ubuntu-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-linux-distribution","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/ubuntu-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-linux-distribution","title":{"rendered":"Ubuntu: Everything you need to know about this Linux distribution"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Born in 2004 from a vision by Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Canonical Ltd, Ubuntu takes its name from an ancient Zulu word meaning &#8220;humanity to others&#8221;. This African philosophy, centered on sharing and community, is perfectly reflected in the spirit of this free operating system, where everyone contributes and benefits collectively.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<p><strong>Ubuntu&#8217;s journey,<\/strong> from its beginnings as a simple Linux distribution to becoming one of the world&#8217;s most popular<a href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/open-source-definition-use-cases-and-more\"> open-source<\/a> platforms, is the embodiment of this open technological vision, accessible and shaped by its community.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-ubuntu\">What is Ubuntu?<\/h2>\n\n\n<p><strong>Ubuntu<\/strong> is a <a href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/linux-the-preferred-os-for-developers\">Linux<\/a> distribution, or rather an operating system based on the Linux kernel. It&#8217;s free, open-source software that millions of users can use, distribute and modify. Based on the Debian Linux distribution, Ubuntu was first released in 2004 by Canonical Ltd, a UK-based company dedicated to promoting the use of open-source software.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-are-ubuntu-s-features\">What are Ubuntu&#8217;s features?<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Renowned for its ease of use, stability and security, one of <strong>Ubuntu&#8217;s key features<\/strong> remains its user-friendly interface, which is designed to be easy to pick up, even for people unfamiliar with Linux. Ubuntu&#8217;s default desktop environment is GNOME, a modern, intuitive interface that&#8217;s easy to navigate. However, Ubuntu also offers a range of other desktop environments, such as <strong>KDE Plasma, MATE and Xfce,<\/strong> so users can choose and customize the interface that best suits their needs.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>What&#8217;s more, <strong>Ubuntu<\/strong> comes with a range of pre-installed software, including web browsers, email services, office productivity tools, media players and more. This means you can get up and running quickly with the applications they need, without having to spend time installing additional software. However, there&#8217;s also an extensive application store, so you&#8217;re sure to find the best applications and solutions to boost your productivity!<\/p>\n\n\n<p>As with any Linux operating system, security is a top priority. The operating system includes built-in tools to protect against viruses, <a href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/adversarial-attack-definition-and-protection-against-this-threat\">malware<\/a> and other security threats, including a firewall and security updates. But Ubuntu also focuses on <a href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/vpn-what-is-it-what-does-it-have-to-do-with-data-science\">user privacy<\/a>, with options to encrypt data and protect sensitive information. Overall, Ubuntu is a stable, powerful and versatile operating system that is popular with both home and business users. Its open-source nature means it can be customized and modified to meet specific needs, and its emphasis on security and stability make it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" style=\"margin-top:32px;margin-bottom:32px\"><img alt=\"Illustration for What are Ubuntu's features?\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"450\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/app\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ubuntu-polyvalent.png\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto\" width=\"800\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex is-content-justification-center wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-5ee10de4\" style=\"margin-top:32px;margin-bottom:32px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/courses\/data-ai\/data-scientist\">Starting a programming course<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-are-the-features\">What are the features?<\/h3>\n\n\n<p><strong>Ubuntu, as a Linux distribution,<\/strong> has set itself apart with a unique combination of features that meet the needs of novice and expert users alike.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Based on Debian<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Ubuntu is built on the solid foundations of the Debian distribution, ensuring high stability and reliability, as well as access to a vast software repository.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Open-source and free<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Fully aligned with open-source principles, Ubuntu is free to use, modify, redistribute, and even resell in modified forms.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Desktop environment<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Initially based on Unity, Ubuntu adopted GNOME from version 17.10 onward, offering a modern, extensible, and highly customizable desktop experience.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Ubuntu \u201cFlavours\u201d<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Ubuntu offers multiple variants such as Xubuntu (XFCE), Lubuntu (LXQt), and Kubuntu (KDE), providing tailored experiences for different user needs.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Enhanced security<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Powered by the Linux kernel, Ubuntu is naturally resistant to many threats and benefits from frequent security updates.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Snap and Flatpak<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Ubuntu supports Snap and Flatpak packages, enabling secure, containerized application installation and simplified updates.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Long-term support (LTS)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          LTS releases are published every two years and supported for five years, making them ideal for professional and enterprise use.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Accessibility<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Ubuntu includes extensive accessibility features to ensure an inclusive experience for users with disabilities.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cloud and server integration<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>\n          Beyond desktops, Ubuntu is widely used in server infrastructures and cloud environments worldwide.\n        <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-are-the-different-ubuntu-versions\">What are the different Ubuntu versions?<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Ubuntu comes in different versions or &#8220;flavors&#8221; to meet specific user needs. Here are some of the most popular Ubuntu versions:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ubuntu Desktop<\/strong> ,  the standard desktop edition that comes with the GNOME desktop environment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ubuntu Server<\/strong> ,  a lighter version designed for use as a server.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ubuntu Mate<\/strong> ,  a version with the MATE desktop environment, popular for its classic, simple interface.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kubuntu<\/strong> ,  a version with the KDE Plasma desktop environment, offering a modern, customizable interface.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Xubuntu<\/strong> ,  a version with the Xfce desktop environment, known for its lightness and speed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex is-content-justification-center wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-5ee10de4\" style=\"margin-top:32px;margin-bottom:32px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/courses\/data-ai\/machine-learning-engineer\">Learn to master Ubuntu<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"installing-ubuntu\">Installing Ubuntu<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-checking-prerequisites\">1. Checking prerequisites<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compatibility:<\/strong> Although Ubuntu is compatible with most computers, we recommend you check the list of compatible hardware.<\/li>\n<li><strong>System requirements:<\/strong> For the best experience, make sure your computer has at least 2 GB RAM, 25 GB disk space, a dual-core processor and virtualization support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-iso-image-recovery\">2. ISO image recovery<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Go to the official Ubuntu website and download the latest version.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-creating-bootable-media\">3. Creating bootable media<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Once you have a USB stick, use tools such as Rufus or balenaEtcher to create your installation media.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-start-up-and-installation\">4. Start-up and installation<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Insert the USB key and restart your computer<br\/>Once you are in the Ubuntu menu, simply follow the steps below to proceed with the installation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-post-installation-configuration\">5. Post-installation configuration<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On first restart, configure your username, password and other preferences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-welcome-to-ubuntu\">6. Welcome to Ubuntu!<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Discover the environment, install your applications and update your software.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" style=\"margin-top:32px;margin-bottom:32px\"><img alt=\"Illustration for 6. Welcome to Ubuntu!\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"379\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/liora.io\/app\/uploads\/2023\/11\/bienvenue_bionic.png\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto\" width=\"800\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ubuntu-an-easy-to-use-distribution\">Ubuntu, an easy-to-use distribution<\/h2>\n\n\n<p><strong>Ubuntu,<\/strong> as a <strong>Linux distribution,<\/strong> has proven its relevance and robustness over the years. Based on the solid foundations of Debian, it has adapted to technological developments while remaining true to its principles of accessibility, transparency and innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Its <strong>widespread adoption<\/strong> in both personal and professional environments is testament to its reliability and performance. For any individual or organization looking for an alternative to traditional operating systems, <strong>Ubuntu<\/strong> is a serious option to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is Ubuntu?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Ubuntu is a free, open\u2011source Linux distribution (operating system) based on Debian that millions of users can use, modify and distribute, developed by Canonical Ltd. and a global community.\u00a0([turn0search0][turn0search8])\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Who develops and maintains Ubuntu?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Ubuntu is developed and maintained by Canonical Ltd., a UK\u2011based company, together with a community of contributors under an open\u2011source governance model.\u00a0([turn0search0][turn0search8])\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What are the main editions of Ubuntu?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Ubuntu is published in multiple official editions including Ubuntu Desktop for personal computers, Ubuntu Server for enterprise and cloud environments, and Ubuntu Core for IoT and embedded devices.\u00a0([turn0search8][turn0search13])\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What features make Ubuntu popular?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Ubuntu is popular because it is free and open source, secure, stable, easy to use, regularly updated on a predictable release schedule, and supported by a large community and rich software repositories.\u00a0([turn0search0][turn0search8])\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What can Ubuntu be used for?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Ubuntu can be used for desktop computing, server hosting, cloud infrastructure, development environments and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, making it versatile across personal, enterprise, and embedded applications.\u00a0([turn0search2][turn0search8])\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Born in 2004 from a vision by Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Canonical Ltd, Ubuntu takes its name from an ancient Zulu word meaning &#8220;humanity to others&#8221;. This African philosophy, centered on sharing and community, is perfectly reflected in the spirit of this free operating system, where everyone contributes and benefits collectively. Ubuntu&#8217;s journey, from its [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":47,"featured_media":207315,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"editor_notices":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[2434],"class_list":["post-182222","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cloud-dev"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/182222","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/47"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=182222"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/182222\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":211058,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/182222\/revisions\/211058"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/207315"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=182222"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=182222"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}