Latest version of linux. Which Linux distribution should a beginner choose? Why choose Linux

There are a huge number of versions of Linux. There have been more than 700 of them on the DistroWatch.com website throughout history. How to choose among this abundance? Here are the two main criteria to pay attention to:

1. Popularity of the distribution. The more well-known your distribution is, the easier it will be to find manuals for it on the Web. A large community means that you can easily get help on thematic forums if you have difficulties mastering the distribution. Finally, the more widespread it is, the more applications and packages are ported to it. It’s better to choose popular solutions with a ready-made package base than to go through the hassle of building from source in some exotic distribution.
2. The development team behind it. Naturally, it is better to pay attention to distributions that are supported by large companies like Canonical Ltd., Red Hat or SUSE or that have large communities.

Please note that even the best distributions have analogues that are not much inferior to them. If you are somehow not satisfied with Lifehacker’s choice, you can try alternatives.

Linux Mint - for those who have never used Linux

Screenshot: Distrowatch

New users who migrated from , should definitely install Linux Mint. It was once the most popular Linux distribution, but has now been overtaken by MX Linux and Manjaro. Nevertheless, Mint compares favorably with them in its stability and reliability. It is a very easy to use system based on Ubuntu.

Linux Mint is equipped with an easy and intuitive interface (Cinnamon shell for modern computers and MATE for older machines) and convenient manager applications, so you won't have any problems finding and installing programs.

• Pros: simplicity, care for ordinary users. You don't need any specific knowledge to install and use Mint.
• Minuses: a large amount of pre-installed software that may never be useful.
• Alternative: Zorin OS is a distribution based on Ubuntu. Also designed for beginners. Its interface resembles Windows, which should make the transition easier for inexperienced users.

Manjaro - for those who want the latest software

Screenshot: Distrowatch

Based on Arch, an incredibly powerful and feature-rich distribution. Its KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) philosophy, contrary to its name, makes Arch too difficult for beginners. This distribution can be installed only via the command line.

Manjaro, unlike Arch, has a simple graphical installer and yet combines its powerful features, such as AUR, with a rolling release. AUR (Arch User Repository) - the richest source Linux packages. And in Manjaro you will always have the latest ones.

The distribution comes with a variety of desktop shells to choose from: functional KDE, GNOME for tablet screens, Xfce, LXDE and others. Manjaro, you can be sure to be the first to receive updates.

• Pros: AUR, thanks to which you can install any application without unnecessary movements. Always the latest software.
• Minuses: unique design of desktop shells. However, nothing prevents you from replacing it.
• Alternatives: Fedora is a distribution from Red Hat, a kind of testing ground where users try out the latest features and capabilities of applications and systems. Chakra is another distribution based on Arch, but equipped with a beautiful KDE interface and a convenient installer.

Arch – for advanced users and those who want to learn Linux

Photo: okubax/Flickr

Despite what staunch Windows apologists may say, most Linux distributions are very easy to use. You will not have any difficulties installing them: just click on the “Next” button several times, and the system will do everything for you. But this does not apply to Arch.

When you launch this distribution for the first time, it only shows you a blank black screen and a blinking cursor on the console. You will have to install the graphical shell, browser, other applications and system tools manually by typing the necessary commands.

Essentially, Arch is a construction kit that an experienced user can build anything with. If you want to understand how Linux works or experiment, you should definitely give Arch a try. If the console causes fear, then the distribution will be too complicated for you.

• Pros: AUR, which provides a huge number of applications, always up-to-date software, extensive customization options, an excellent useful Wiki, high performance.
• Minuses: The distribution is not suitable for beginners. You will have to learn a lot of commands and read manuals.
• Alternatives: Slackware is one of the oldest distributions. His fans say: "If you learn Slackware, you will learn all of Linux." It is characterized by stability and conservatism. Gentoo - this distribution does not have convenient app stores. Instead, you have to manually compile the programs you need from source codes kindly provided by the developers. In theory, this gives a small bonus to system performance.

Kubuntu - Desktop

Screenshot: Distrowatch

Kubuntu is one of the most famous distributions with KDE, the graphical environment of which is ideal for use on the desktop. It's based on Ubuntu, which means you won't have any application compatibility issues.

Kubuntu is beautiful, functional and easy to customize. Even novice users can easily handle it. It's a stable and polished system that provides all the features you need for a home desktop PC.

• Pros: a wide range of packages, a wonderful set of KDE applications and a huge number of interface settings.
• Minuses: Kubuntu uses a stable version of KDE, which means that the latest features of this shell come here late. If you want to try out the latest KDE, KDE Neon is at your service.
• Alternatives: openSUSE is a system supported by Novell. The distribution is quite simple for beginners and uses the KDE graphical environment. It has two update modes: Leap (stable, like in Ubuntu) and Tumbleweed (a rolling release with the most interesting new products, like in Arch).

elementary OS - for laptop

Screenshot: Distrowatch

As the name suggests, this version of Linux is very simple. You will not have any problems mastering it; it runs easily on laptops. It also drains battery slowly.

The elementary OS interface is reminiscent of macOS, so the distribution will be pleasant to use for Mac fans. Animations, window decorations - everything here is so smooth and pretty that you can simply admire the system. However, behind the beautiful shell of elementary OS lies a full-fledged Linux that supports all the applications necessary for work.

• Pros: beautiful interface, own indie app store.
• Minuses: The Pantheon graphical shell, although it looks stylish, is not very functional. Not enough settings.
• Alternatives: Deepin is a distribution originally from the Middle Kingdom. It features a beautiful, customizable interface and a nice WPS office. Based on Debian.

Ubuntu - for tablet or convertible

Screenshot: Distrowatch

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions on the desktop. It uses the GNOME graphical shell, which looks quite good on devices with touch screens. If you have a tablet and want to try installing Linux on it, try Ubuntu with GNOME.

Large interface elements, customizable gestures and extensions will make this distro great system for touchscreens.

• Pros: Ubuntu is a widespread distribution, which means you can easily find all the software you need. In addition, most Linux sites are dedicated specifically to Ubuntu.
• Minuses: The GNOME shell is convenient, but at first it seems unusual.
• Alternative: Solus - Budgie is used as a graphical environment (a nice lightweight interface). It looks good on small screens of ultrabooks and convertibles.

Lubuntu - for an old computer or netbook

Screenshot: Distrowatch

This version of Ubuntu is based on the LXDE shell, which is lightweight and resource-efficient. And if you have some not very good ones lying around new computer or a netbook that can't handle Windows, you can by installing Lubuntu.

This distribution consumes few system resources and can run on almost any configuration.

• Pros: very fast and lightweight system, which also supports the same packages and applications as its older sister Ubuntu.
• Minuses: LXDE's appearance won't be to everyone's taste, but it's a small price to pay for performance.
• Alternatives:- the MATE shell is made in a conservative spirit, it is very light and does not load the computer. Nevertheless, it has enough settings and capabilities. - uses the Xfce graphical environment, which works quickly even on old hardware.

Debian - for home server

Screenshot: Distrowatch

A home server can be useful for many purposes. For example, to store data and backups, download torrents, or arrange your own dimensionless .

Debian will take root well on yours home server. This is a stable and conservative distribution that became the basis for Ubuntu and many other Linux systems. It uses only the most proven packages, making it an excellent choice.

• Pros: stability and a large set of applications.
• Minuses: the need to manually configure the distribution after installation.
• Alternatives: Ubuntu Server is worth a try if you think Debian is too inconvenient or its repositories do not have the software you need. CentOS is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux and is highly stable. Therefore, CentOS is often used on servers of commercial organizations.

Kodi - for media center

Screenshot: Kodi

If you want to set up your own media server, choose Kodi. Strictly speaking, it is not a distribution kit, but a full-featured player for a media center. You can install it on any Linux, but it is best to choose the Ubuntu + Kodi combination.

It supports all types of video and audio files. It can play movies, music, and organize your photos. Kodi will turn anyone into universal device for fun.

Thanks to extensions, Kodi can download media files via torrents, track new seasons of your favorite TV series, and show videos from YouTube and other streaming services. In short, he can do everything.

In addition, Kodi is very beautiful and optimized for control with remote control or Android devices. You can easily customize its interface using many visual shells.

• Pros: a huge number of functions and convenient controls.
• Minuses: The standard interface may not be to everyone's liking, but it is easy to replace.
• Alternatives: Plex is an application for creating a media server similar to Kodi. It can be installed on any Linux distribution or on a TV set-top box. Plex has a premium version that includes some additional functions. Emby is a media organizer with open source code, which can be installed on any Linux distribution or on your own mini-server, such as Raspberry Pi. With it, any TV will become smart.

Kali - for experimenters and security professionals

Screenshot: Distrowatch

Whether you're a network security professional, a penetration tester, or just want to play hacker, Kali Linux is for you. It contains many built-in applications that will help, for example, scan a Wi-Fi network for vulnerabilities or find a weak spot in your server’s security.

However, keep in mind that Kali's features are overkill for most casual users. However, many people install it simply as a desktop system - perhaps as a tribute to fashion.

• Pros: An excellent set of tools for pentesting.
• Minuses: very niche distribution.
• Alternative: Tails is the best operating system for the paranoid. All Internet connections here are made through the anonymous Tor network. No one will know what sites you visit or what applications you install. All data in Tails is stored in encrypted form. If necessary, it can work from random access memory without installation, leaving no traces.

Choosing a Linux distribution can be a very difficult and confusing task for first-time users. It is especially difficult to choose your first Linux distribution, since such users are just about to switch from Windows and do not yet know what distributions exist and how they differ from each other.

In this article we will look at the best Linux distributions for a beginner. I'm not highlighting any distribution, it's just a list, so it doesn't matter where your favorite distribution ranks. They are all the best.

You already know that trying out a Linux distribution is very easy. Just download the image, burn it to USB flash drive and boot from it. You don't even need to install anything on your computer drive. So you can try all the distributions listed below, and only then install the Linux you like on your computer. Now let's get to the list.

Ubuntu is the most popular Linux distribution. Even if it is not at the very top of the popularity list among experienced users, it is definitely the most popular distribution among beginners. This is the only distribution that even non-Linux users know about. It is based on Debian and has a regular release cycle of new versions.

Peculiarities:

• There is an easy and simple installer;
• The default user interface is Unity. It is quite different from the appearance of the worker Windows desktop, but will not be very difficult to master;
• After installing the system, you receive a wide range of software, including Libreoffice, Firefox, Thunderbird, as well as several simple games, you can also enable installation flash plugin and codecs;
• The popularity of Ubuntu means that there is a huge amount of software for it, not only in official repositories, but also in third-party PPAs, and even on the Internet;
• There is also a huge amount of documentation and articles on setting up this system available on the Internet. If you encounter any problem, you can try searching online and you will most likely find a solution.

2. Linux Mint

Linux MInt is another popular Linux distribution for beginners based on Ubuntu. You get the same basic Ubuntu system, because of this it is also popular among new users. You can try Linux Mint if you don't like Unity and want more of the software installed by default.

Peculiarities:

• Along with the system, not only is it installed by default software open source, but also adds proprietary software, such as various codecs and plugins that provide flash work and mp3, as well as DVD playback;
• The default desktop environment is Cinnamon or MATE;
• Linux Mint developers are developing their software to update the system, Reserve copy and other service tasks. The Cinnamon environment is also their creation.

3. CentOS

CentOS is free version commercial Linux distribution Red Hat Enterprise Linux. CentOS is developed by the community. They take the Red Hat Enterprise Linux source code, remove all branding from it, and organize constant release of system updates. CentOS was created with the idea of ​​creating a stable and free operating system for enterprises and organizations.

Peculiarities:

• CentOS contains only the most stable versions of software packages. This means that the risk of errors and failures is greatly reduced;
• Users. Those who install CentOS get access to enterprise-grade security updates, since this distribution is closely tied to Red Hat.
• CentOS includes a wide range of security features, including a powerful firewall and SELinux policy engine.

4.OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE is a free and open source distribution based on SUSE developments Linux Enterprise, which is produced by the German company Novell. This distribution is designed to be accessible and easy to use.

Peculiarities:

• The distribution uses the KDE desktop environment by default. This environment is more like Windows than Unity, Cinnamon or Gnome;
• To configure the system, the YaST program is used, which allows you to configure almost everything, from installing programs and setting up repositories, to setting up the network and SysRQ;
• There is a large amount of software available through software.opensuse.org, although slightly less than Ubuntu.

5. ZorinOS

Zorin OS is a beginner's Linux distribution based on Ubuntu and has an interface very similar to Windows, as well as many programs installed by default. Wine is also pre-installed in the distribution, which allows you to run windows programs to get the most out of your Linux distribution as a beginner.

6. Pinguy OS

Pinguy OS is another distribution based on Ubuntu and supports both x86 and x86-64 architectures. The goal of Pinguy OS is very simple, to look good, perform well and most importantly be easy to use. Pinguy OS is designed for those new to the Linux world who are just coming from Windows or Mac. Here they will find many familiar functions, as well as many new ones.

7. Manjaro Linux

Manjaro Linux is a Linux distribution based on ArchLInux. His goal is to make this operating system easier for new users. Here you will get installation as easy as possible and everything you need so that a novice user can work with the system right after installation. You also get all the latest software, as the repositories are regularly synchronized with ArchLinux.

8.Elementary OS

Another distribution on our list of the best linux distributions for beginners is Elementary OS. Elementary is one of the distributions based on Ubuntu and is a good starting point for beginners. Distribution developers attach great importance to the design and appearance of the operating system. A large number of packages are supplied with the system. It also has its own application center. But in some cases the operating system does not behave very stable.

9.Solus

Last on our list of the best distros for beginners is Solus. This is a distribution that is created from scratch and supports only the x86_64 architecture. Solus offers a variety of applications to customize your desktop environment. These are Firefox, Thunderbird, Nautilus, Rhythmbox music player and VLC.

conclusions

Our list of the best distributions for beginners has come to an end. You can choose any of them and try it right away. What do you think, which Linux distribution should a beginner choose? Which one did you start with? Write in the comments!

The discussion about the best Linux desktops is very hot among regular users, because in Linux there are not 2 or 3 of them, but only 6 popular ones, and I don’t even consider a few others less popular. Seasoned Linux users are picking up their swords and starting to defend their choice.

If you're wondering about my opinion, know that I've been using Ubuntu for years, until now. I recently tried Linux Deepin, maybe it will lure me to its shores in the future. I really appreciate Linux Mint, I once used its new Cinnamon desktop environment, and on a weak laptop I now use Linux Mint XFCE. With that said, Linux Mint is the clear winner when it comes to choosing a Linux distribution for beginners.

The real truth of this question is that you can't go wrong when trying Linux with any of these desktops. Each of them illuminates its own path. If you are looking for true beauty, then go the Linux Deepin route. If you want a combination of beauty and simplicity, use Ubuntu Linux. If you want simplicity, then Linux Mint is the way to go. No matter which route you take, it will be a win-win.

Let's face it, Linux can overwhelm almost any complexity for new users. But then, it is not Linux that brings this complexity, it is most likely the “newness” factor that causes such feelings.

This article is especially for those who have no idea what else you can use on your computer instead of Windows or Mac OS.

The best distributions for new users

Please remember that this is a list in no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list are ease of installation out of the box, ease of use and availability of software packages.

If you've ever been interested in Linux on the Internet, then it's very likely that you've already come across . Ubuntu is one of the leading Linux distributions. And it's almost the perfect distro to start your Linux journey with.

Ubuntu has been labeled as Linux for the people. This is because Ubuntu has already put a lot of effort into universal usability. Ubuntu doesn't require you to be a prodigy. It breaks the concept of the Linux line - for programmers, and this is one of the main points.

Ubuntu offers a very convenient installation procedure. The installer simply says, “in what language do you want to install me?” You can even try Ubuntu before you start the installation procedure. The installer provides simple options:

• Erase disk and install Ubuntu
• Installing Ubuntu next to the existing OS (a choice is given at each startup to select the OS to boot).
• Setting up sections for users who know what they are doing.

Initial tip: Choose the second option if you are not sure what to do.

The user interface in Ubuntu is called Unity. This is a very simple desktop shell. Launch and favorite applications in the dock on the left side (the so-called “Dash”) and search for applications, which is carried out by clicking on the Super button (Windows) or by clicking on the Ubuntu logo. It couldn't be simpler, could it?

There is no hassle in installing drivers in Ubuntu, which comes with a hardware detector that detects, downloads and installs the optimal drivers for your PC. Besides, installed system comes with all basic software such as music player, video player, office suite and other useful programs.

Ubuntu has great documentation and public support. The Ubuntu and Ask Ubuntu forums provide significant quality support on almost every aspect related to Ubuntu. And it is very likely that any question you want to ask may already be answered by someone.

If you decide to install Ubuntu, then you can download this distribution on the official website.

Linux Mint Cinnamon

Most computer users are Windows users. And when a Windows user gets Linux, there is a fair amount of 'unlearning' that the user must go through. A huge number of operations have been recorded in our muscle memory. For example, the mouse goes to the bottom left corner of the screen (Start), you probably want to launch the application every time. I can only recommend a distribution that alleviates all these problems on Linux, and half the battle is won. Look at .

Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based distribution with a highly polished Linux distribution that is well suited for users coming from Windows. Although almost every Linux distribution can be used by everyone, some people are very uncomfortable with seeing someone else's desktop, and Zorin OS will make this transition easier for you.

Package managers seem at first Linux newbies, something supernatural. That's why Zorin OS comes with a huge (and I mean really huge) list of pre-installed software. Everything you need is already installed in Zorin OS.

Zorin OS comes with an amazing theme changing feature. It offers some heavy customization options with presets to make your OS look like Windows 7, XP, 2000 or even Mac.

These features make Zorin OS, best Linux a distribution for beginners, isn't it?

Go to the official website to download the latest version of Zorin OS.

Since we looked at distributions for Windows users, let's see something for MacOS users. very quickly rose in the rankings, and is now always included in the list of the best distributions, all thanks to its aesthetic essence. Inspired by the look of MacOS, Elementary OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distributions.

Elementary OS is another Ubuntu-based distribution, which means that the operating system itself is undoubtedly stable. Elementary OS comes with the Pantheon desktop environment, and you can immediately notice the similarities with MacOS. This is an advantage for MacOS users who are moving to Linux, as they will feel very comfortable with this distribution, and it really makes the process of coping with the change easier.

The menu is very simple and customizable according to user preferences. The operating system is not intrusive, so you can really focus on your work. It comes with very little software pre-installed, so anyone New user, won't be distracted by huge bells and whistles, but will have everything you need out of the box. For additional software, Elementary OS provides a neat AppCenter that is accessible and easy to use. All in one place. You can get all the software you want and update in just a few clicks.

You should try it. You can download Elementary OS on the official website.

A large number of people who come to Linux are looking to revitalize old computers. In the operating room Windows system 10, many computers that had decent performance just a few years ago have become incompetent. And if you are looking for a distribution that will resurrect your old computer, then look towards Linux Mate.

Linux Mint Mate is a very lightweight, not demanding, but still polished distribution. It can work smoothly on weak computers. The desktop environment won't bring you bells and bells. But it is in no way inferior in functionality to any other desktop environment. The operating system is not intrusive and allows you to work productively without loss of quality.

Again, Linux Mint Mate is based on Ubuntu and has the benefit of Ubuntu's huge solid software repository base. It comes with a minimum number of essentials that are pre-installed. Easy installation Drivers and system configuration management are very accessible even for beginners.

You can run Linux Mint Mate even if you have 512 MB of RAM and 9 GB of free hard drive space (the more the better).

If you have already made your choice, then you can download Linux Mint Mate on the official website.

Before you say that you shouldn't guide a newbie to such a complex distribution as ArchLinux, listen to me first.

Arch is considered an expert distribution only because of its very complex installation procedure. Manajro and Arch Linux have a common origin. But they are pretty much different in every other way.

Has a very beginner friendly installation procedure. Many things are automated, such as driver installation using Hardware Detection. With Manjaro, you will forget about searching for manuals for installing drivers, which plagues many other Linux distributions. And even if you have questions, Manjaro has amazing community support.

Manjaro has its own software repository which maintains the latest software and this is one of the priorities for the users. One of the main differences between Arch and Manjaro is that Manjaro delays package releases to ensure that they are completely stable and will not cause regressions. You can also access the Arch User Repository on Manjaro, which has everything you need available.

If you look at all kinds of tops and ratings, you will notice that the share of Linux users is steadily growing. This is, of course, due to people’s interest in this topic. Fascinates many Open Source, others find Linux distributions more stable and convenient compared to other operating systems, and some even pursue only experimental goals. In general, as they say, it comes down to taste... And yet, sometimes, due to the variety of all these GNU/Linux-based systems, it becomes very difficult to choose. And that's why I'm glad to present to you a list of 10 stable Linux distributions for home use. This article will help you decide which Linux to choose for your home. They are, in my opinion, the best suited for installation on home PCs. Before we get started, I recommend checking out.

Linux for home use - Debian

Firstly, it is worth mentioning that this is just a selection, but not a distribution by place (from best to worst or vice versa), in other words, all distributions presented in this top are suitable for home use approximately equally. The same applies to the old Debian, which for years remained the standard of stability for many Linux devices.

The distribution is famous for the fact that it uses only proven, stable versions of the software. This approach allows you to avoid any unpleasant incidents, and this is why Debian is so valued.

Almost all popular DEs can be used as a graphical environment. There are a variety of variations available in the community repositories, including XFCE, GNOME, KDE, MATE, and even Cinnamon. By the way, you can choose the shell during installation. Fortunately, the developers took care of this too.

For those who have never used Linux - Linux Mint

Ubuntu

As you may have already understood, GNOME is used as the main desktop shell. However, the version with Unity has not sunk into oblivion. Influenced by the community, which promises to be an excellent option for those users who are not ready to give up this wonderful graphical shell.

Elementary OS

"Fast and open Windows replacement and MacOS” - this is exactly how the developers position this operating system. At the core, of course, Ubuntu distribution. But this does not prevent Elementary from being one of the most unusual and at the same time convenient Linux distributions. The authors of the project develop and maintain their own graphical environment - Pantheon. She is notable for her appearance(similar to Mac), as well as speed.

Recently, this distribution has acquired its own army of fans. People not only financially support developers (which motivates them to make their product better), but also actively communicate with them, directing their efforts in the right direction. By the way, Elementary has its own applications, developed, again, within the project. And it's really interesting.

To download the distribution for free, you need to select “Other amount” in the “Pay what you want:” column and enter 0 there.

Deepin

Quite recently released a new version this system - . There I briefly described all the main features and capabilities of this distribution and its updated version. It is worth noting, by the way, that Deepin has a set of its own software, as well as . This software is not available on other systems, so if you want to try it all out, you definitely need to install this distribution.

OpenSuse

Of all the previously listed Linux distributions for home use, this one perhaps stands out in that it is not a fork of Debian or Ubuntu. It uses a completely different package manager, and it is for this reason that the work in the system is somewhat different from the usual type of interaction in Debian-based (and Ubuntu-based) distributions. One of the biggest advantages of this system is the YaST control center. It gives you complete control over every aspect of OpenSuse (including system updates, application installations, and configuration).

The distribution is available in two main editions: Tumbleweed And Leap. The first is a rolling release, the essence of which lies in the updates that the Tubmleweed version receives in a timely manner as it is released. Leap, on the other hand, is a stable version, the software in which is updated much less frequently. Thanks to this, the distribution really gains stability in operation, and eliminates the appearance of some errors that could be relevant on a rolling distribution.

Regarding graphical shells, it is worth saying that in currently OpenSuse is available with KDE and GNOME. , and it is for this reason that the distribution's developers use and support them. Overall, OpenSuse is a great Linux distribution for home use. Many people stop at it, believing that no other distribution has such stability and completeness.

Manjaro

To tell the truth, this distribution is one of my favorites. Why is that? As they say, subjectivity is to blame. For me personally, Manjaro is synonymous with stability, beauty, and, finally, ease of use. Arch-like variations are really easy to operate, configure and update. With one single resource (I'm talking about AUR), you can install almost any software without wasting time adding repositories or downloading installation file manually via browser.

Antergos

Another arche-like Linux distribution for home use, which is making its way to the top of various ratings. It should be regarded as the twin brother of Manjaro, which, for all its similarities, is more similar to its parents (on Arch Linux). Yes, indeed, Antergos is more similar to Arch, and even uses its repositories, while Manjaro downloads updates from its own.

Like Arch with Manjaro, this distribution can connect to the AUR and use that repository to install packages. The whole trinity is very similar in use, but there are also differences, which most often lie in the changed design (In Archa it is completely default). Otherwise, the distribution is very stable and is perfect for use at home.

Linux for home use - Fedora

And this distribution is famous for the fact that it is on it that all the new products in the GNU/Linux world first appear. It represents a kind of testing ground for Red Hat. Before adding something to its commercial Linux distribution RHEL, the company implements it into Fedora. Many people might now be asking, "If this is just a test version for a commercial distribution, doesn't that mean that there is no stability here and that Fedora will be simply terrible as a Linux distribution for home use?" And to such people I will answer: no, it doesn’t mean that. Although this distribution is the first to receive all updates, it still remains very, very suitable for use at home. What can we say, Linus Torvalds himself (the creator of the Linux kernel) used (or still uses) Fedora as his main operating system.

Of course, it is worth understanding that like all other Linux distributions, this one is not without its drawbacks. You shouldn’t expect anything out of the ordinary from it, however, I repeat, Fedora would be an excellent choice for the home.

The distribution comes in three main editions: Work station, Server And Atomic. Also available on the official resource are options with a wide variety of graphical shells. This includes KDE, LXDE, XFCE, and even Cinnamon. For home, in general, the “Workstation” or Workstation option is suitable. Therefore, I recommend paying attention to it.

Linux for home use - Ubuntu Mate

I highlighted this edition as a separate paragraph not because I have nothing more to add here. Ubuntu MATE is truly something amazing; it can be regarded as a separate Linux distribution with its own development team (however, this also applies to some other distributions from the Ubuntu family). The version with mate stands out from the rest because of its special approach. Own design style, color scheme, and most importantly, stability of operation. Many people note the last point when they say why they chose Ubuntu MATE.

The distribution is quite universal. Although it is based on the MATE graphical shell, the developers have added enough functionality to customize this shell into something similar to other graphical environments. Thus, in Ubuntu 17.10 the ability to configure the system for Unity was added. This was done to help some fans survive the transition of the main edition to GNOME. Other design options are also available here, and you can familiarize yourself with them by installing the distribution kit on your computer. HDD or virtual machine.

It is worth noting the speed of MATE, which users are simply delighted with. The system is fast and undemanding, which makes it possible to install it even on weak PCs and laptops.

Linux for home use - conclusions

So, I presented to you my subjective top 10 Linux distributions for home computer. In my opinion, these are the versions that are most suitable for use at home. Of course, you may disagree with this; there are always controversial points. Still, if you didn’t find what you were looking for here, I recommend that you check out other top Linux distributions. Perhaps you will find something there that suits you better. And that's all for now.

4.3 / 5 ( 9 votes)