What is Ubuntu? Uses and compatibility
Author: Domeny.ForSale editorial team Published
In brief: Ubuntu is a free operating system based on Linux, available in editions for personal computers and servers, among others. Ubuntu Desktop has a graphical desktop that lets you use the computer without knowing terminal commands. It can replace Windows for many everyday tasks, but you should check compatibility with the software and hardware you need before installing it. Ubuntu is not immune to every threat, although a separate antivirus program is usually not the main line of defence on a home computer.
How does Ubuntu differ from Linux?
An operating system manages your computer and lets you run applications. Strictly speaking, Linux is a kernel: the part of the system responsible for, among other things, communication between software and hardware. In everyday usage, Linux also refers to the whole family of operating systems built on that kernel.
Ubuntu is a Linux distribution: a ready-made package of the kernel, tools, applications and mechanisms for installing and updating software. It is developed by Canonical together with the community. Users do not have to assemble these components themselves to get a working system.
Ubuntu is free to download, install and use, including for work. Additional services, such as certain types of technical support, may cost money. A free operating system does not mean that every application you can run on it is free, either.
What is everyday use of Ubuntu like?
Ubuntu Desktop, the edition for personal computers, comes with the GNOME desktop environment by default. A desktop environment provides the desktop, windows, menus and settings you control with a mouse and keyboard. It looks different from Windows, but basic tasks—opening files, connecting to Wi-Fi or adjusting the volume—do not require programming.
You can install programs through a graphical app centre. The terminal, a tool for entering text commands, is useful for more advanced configuration and troubleshooting, but you do not need it for ordinary web browsing or writing documents.
Ubuntu is suitable for tasks such as:
- using email, websites and browser-based services;
- working with documents, spreadsheets and presentations, for example in LibreOffice;
- programming and running development tools;
- running servers, such as a web server.
Ubuntu Server is intended primarily for server use and does not install a graphical desktop by default. If you are looking for an operating system for your home laptop, Ubuntu Desktop is the right starting point.
Can Ubuntu replace Windows and work with your hardware?
The most important question is not “Is Ubuntu good?” but “Will it run what I need?” A program built for Windows is not automatically compatible with Ubuntu. Some applications have a version for Linux, others run in a browser, and others require an alternative.
For example, someone who mainly uses webmail, a browser and basic documents may be able to move most of their work over without major changes. However, if they use Adobe Photoshop every day or a particular accounting program available only for Windows, they should check their options first. Games are similar: some work through compatibility layers, but certain titles, especially those with particular anti-cheat systems, may not run.
Ubuntu supports many computers, but compatibility is not guaranteed for every model. Problems may affect the Wi-Fi adapter, graphics, fingerprint reader, printer or the laptop’s ability to wake from sleep. Before installing, check the hardware manufacturer’s information, along with the current requirements and list of certified devices in Ubuntu’s official resources.
Do not assume that Ubuntu will automatically speed up every old computer, either. The default desktop needs a certain amount of system resources; if memory is very limited, a lighter variant of the system may be a better choice.
Do you need antivirus software on Ubuntu?
The claim that “Ubuntu has no viruses” is false. Malware for Linux exists, and password phishing, fake websites and dangerous browser extensions can affect users regardless of their operating system.
On a typical home computer running Ubuntu, installing a separate antivirus program is usually not the first recommended step. Regular updates, installing software from trusted sources, taking care when running scripts and keeping backups are more important. A command found online can change or delete data, especially if you grant it administrator privileges.
An antivirus scanner may be needed to meet company policies or to check files being sent to users of other operating systems. The right protection therefore depends on how you use the computer, not just on the name of its operating system.
How can you try Ubuntu without deleting your data?
The easiest way is to boot Ubuntu from a USB drive in trial mode. This lets you explore the desktop and test your hardware without installing the system on your computer’s drive.
- Download an Ubuntu Desktop image from an official source. To start with, consider an LTS release, which offers long-term support; check the Ubuntu documentation for the current scope and dates of support.
- Create an installation USB drive following the official instructions. Writing the image erases the existing contents of the USB drive.
- Boot your computer from the USB drive and choose to try the system rather than install it.
- Test Wi-Fi, sound, the camera, output to an external monitor, and sleep and wake functions.
Trial mode may run more slowly than a system installed on your computer’s drive. If you decide to install Ubuntu, back up important files first—choosing the wrong drive or partition could erase them.
See also: What is Linux?
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