Ubuntu is a free, open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel and the Debian distribution. It is developed and maintained by Canonical Ltd. and a global community of volunteers and contributors. Ubuntu aims to be a complete, secure, and easy-to-use desktop and server platform suitable for everyone from first-time users to experienced system administrators.
Ubuntu is built around three core principles: it is free to download and use, it is regularly updated with security patches and new features, and it comes with a wide range of pre-installed software to cover everyday computing needs.
Ubuntu was created by South African entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth and first released in October 2004. The name "Ubuntu" comes from the Nguni Bantu concept of ubuntu, meaning "humanity to others" or "I am what I am because of who we all are."
Shuttleworth founded Canonical Ltd. to develop and commercially support Ubuntu, while keeping the distribution itself completely free. Ubuntu rapidly grew to become one of the most popular Linux distributions in the world, known for its ease of installation, regular release schedule, and strong community.
The first release, Ubuntu 4.10 (codenamed Warty Warthog), was based on Debian and used the GNOME desktop environment. Subsequent releases have expanded to include multiple desktop environments and hardware architectures.
Ubuntu is built on four philosophical pillars derived from the original Debian Social Contract and the broader free software movement:
Note: The Ubuntu Philosophy is codified in the DocteamLicense and on the main Ubuntu website.
Ubuntu follows a predictable release schedule, issuing a new version every six months — in
April and October of each year. Releases are named using the pattern
YY.MM (e.g., 22.04 for April 2022).
Every two years, in April, Ubuntu issues a Long-Term Support (LTS) release. LTS releases receive five years of security updates and bug fixes for the desktop edition, and ten years for server and infrastructure editions via the Ubuntu Pro programme. LTS releases are recommended for production environments and users who prefer stability over cutting-edge features.
Non-LTS releases are supported for nine months. They receive the latest versions of the Linux kernel, GNOME, and other core software, making them a good choice for users who want up-to-date software while accepting shorter support windows.
In addition to the default Ubuntu desktop, the community maintains several official flavors — versions of Ubuntu that ship with a different desktop environment or are optimised for a particular use case:
The following are the recommended minimum specifications for running the Ubuntu desktop (standard release). Server editions have lower requirements as they do not run a graphical interface by default.
Tip: For older hardware, consider installing Lubuntu or Xubuntu, which have significantly lower resource requirements.
Ubuntu is available for free download from the official Ubuntu website. You can also purchase a physical DVD, or receive Ubuntu pre-installed on computers from hardware vendors that partner with Canonical.
Once downloaded, Ubuntu can be installed from a USB drive or DVD. Many users also choose to run Ubuntu alongside their existing operating system (dual-boot) or inside a virtual machine before committing to a full installation.
For step-by-step installation instructions, see the Ubuntu Start Guide.