What Ubuntu Version Should I Install? A Comprehensive Guide

It can be a tough decision to choose a proper version of Ubuntu, both for a first-time and old-time Linux user. As popular as Ubuntu is with its friendliness and stability, it offers many versions, so here you will be guided through the proper selection process for the most suitable version of Ubuntu according to your requirements.

Understanding Ubuntu Release Cycles

And before I dive into specific editions, here's an overarching general concept: Ubuntu's release cycle:

LTS Versions: Their releases take place every two years and are supported for five years. Packages that serve releases with a two-year interval aim at delivering stability and long-term service in preference to the newest features in the package.

The interim releases are six months long, and they consist of the latest features and updates, but they have only a nine-month support cycle.

Current Ubuntu Versions to Consider

As of 2024, the most recent versions to consider are:

Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish): Released in April 2022, supported until April 2027.

Ubuntu 23.10 (Mantic Minotaur): Released in October 2023, supported until July 2024.

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat): Expected release in April 2024, will be supported until April 2029.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ubuntu Version

1. Stability vs. Latest Features

LTS Versions (e.g., 22.04):

Pros: More stable, fewer updates required, more extended support period.

Cons: It may include only some of the latest software versions.

Ideal for: Production environments, servers, or users who prefer stability over cutting-edge features.

Interim Releases (e.g., 23.10):

Pros: Access to the latest features and software versions.

Cons: A shorter support period and potentially less stability are needed.

Ideal for Enthusiasts, developers, or users who want the latest innovations.

2. Hardware Compatibility

Newer versions generally offer better support for recent hardware.

For older hardware, LTS versions or even previous LTS releases might provide better compatibility.

3. Software Requirements

Check if the software you need is available in the Ubuntu version you're considering.

Some specialized software may require specific Ubuntu versions for optimal compatibility.

4. Support Duration

LTS versions provide a five-year support window, which is ideal for long-term deployments.

Interim releases require more frequent upgrades, which can be time-consuming for multi user systems.

5. User Experience

Recent versions may introduce changes to the user interface or default applications.

LTS versions maintain a more consistent user experience throughout their lifecycle.

Recommendations for Different User Types

For Home Users:

New to Linux: Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or the upcoming 24.04 LTS. These provide a stable and user-friendly introduction to Ubuntu.

Tech Enthusiasts: Latest interim release (e.g., 23.10) for access to new features.

For Developers:

Web Developers: Latest LTS or interim release for up-to-date development tools.

System Developers: Consider the latest interim release for newer kernel versions and libraries.

For Business and Enterprise:

Servers: LTS versions (22.04 or upcoming 24.04) for long-term stability and support.

Workstations: LTS versions for consistency or the latest interim for specialized needs.

For Education:

Students: Latest LTS for a balance of stability and features.

Computer Labs: LTS versions for easier management and longer-term consistency.

Installation Considerations

1. System Requirements:

2 GHz dual-core processor

4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)

25 GB of free hard drive space

Internet access is helpful

2.Backup: Always back up your data before installing a new OS.

3. Installation Method:

Fresh Install: Recommended for new users or clean setups.

Upgrade: Possible from one version to the next, but a fresh install is often cleaner.

4. Dual Boot vs. Full Install: Consider dual-booting with another OS if you're not ready to fully commit to Ubuntu.

Ubuntu Flavors

If you're not satisfied with the default GNOME desktop environment, Ubuntu offers official flavors with different desktop environments:

Kubuntu (KDE)

Xubuntu (Xfce)

Lubuntu (LXQt)

Ubuntu MATE

Ubuntu Budgie

These flavors follow the same version numbers and release schedule as standard Ubuntu.

Trying Before Installing

You can test Ubuntu versions without installing:

Live USB: Create a bootable USB drive to test Ubuntu without affecting your current system.

Virtual Machine: Use software like VirtualBox to run Ubuntu in a virtual environment.

Conclusion

Which one to use depends on needs, hardware, and preferences. For most users new to Linux, the latest LTS (currently 22.04, soon 24.04) is a perfect choice, so you are guaranteed a good mixture of stability and features.

If you are a tech enthusiast or a developer who insists on the latest features and isn't afraid of more frequent updates, then a newer interim version is advisable. Anyway, the general rule of thumb is that if you start with an LTS release, you can generally upgrade to a newer version later on.

Whatever version you may go for, Ubuntu is an easy-to-use operating system with a robust community that ensures you will have the most powerful and flexible piece of operating software at your fingertips.