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Ubuntu

Ubuntu

Overview

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu Linux is a Linux-based operating system for personal computers, tablets and smartphones. There is also a Server version which is used on physical or virtual servers in the data center.

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Recent Reviews

Ubuntu Linux Review

9 out of 10
January 17, 2024
I use Ubuntu Linux both client side (for personal use) and server side (in my organization). I find the operating system very …
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TrustRadius Insights

Ubuntu Linux is a versatile operating system that has found its place in a wide range of industries and applications. Organizations across …
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Ubuntu Pros and Cons

9 out of 10
May 12, 2021
Incentivized
In most of our virtual machines and servers we generally use Ubuntu Linux to address specific system requirements for clouds as well to …
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Power User OS

10 out of 10
May 10, 2021
Incentivized
Ubuntu Linux is used by employees in the organization who have elected to use it over the standard issue Macbooks. It allows us to have a …
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Awards

Products that are considered exceptional by their customers based on a variety of criteria win TrustRadius awards. Learn more about the types of TrustRadius awards to make the best purchase decision. More about TrustRadius Awards

Reviewer Pros & Cons

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Product Demos

Create Ubuntu Linux VM In Azure Portal

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Linux Basics: How to change Screen Resolution in Linux (Command Line)

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Linux Basics: How to Sudo in Linux without Password

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Product Details

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is an open-source operating system developed by Canonical Ltd. According to the vendor, it aims to provide a secure, reliable, and customizable platform for desktops, servers, and cloud computing. It is said to be suitable for businesses of all sizes and widely used by IT professionals, software developers, system administrators, educational institutions, and researchers. With its comprehensive application suite, multi-language support, and highly customizable interface, Ubuntu is said to cater to the diverse needs of various professions and industries, including IT, software development, education, and research.

Key Features

Secure Operating System: According to the vendor, Ubuntu is known for its robust security features, including a built-in firewall and virus protection software. It offers long-term support releases with five years of security patches and updates, ensuring ongoing protection against emerging threats.

Open Source Software: The vendor states that Ubuntu is an open-source operating system, freely available for download, use, and sharing. It fosters transparency, customization, and continuous improvement through community contributions, making it a collaborative platform.

Comprehensive Application Suite: Ubuntu comes pre-installed with a wide range of essential applications, including an office suite, web browsers, email clients, and media players. Users can access thousands of additional applications through the Ubuntu Software Centre, expanding the system's functionality.

Multi-Language Support: According to the vendor, Ubuntu is fully translated into over 50 languages, promoting inclusivity and global reach. It includes essential assistive technologies to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities, enabling users to work and collaborate in their preferred language.

Highly Customizable Interface: Ubuntu offers a visually appealing interface that can be tailored to individual preferences. Users can choose from various themes, wallpapers, and desktop environments, and it supports high-definition displays, touchscreen capabilities, and touchpad gestures.

Wide Hardware Compatibility: Canonical collaborates with major hardware manufacturers to ensure compatibility with a wide range of laptops, workstations, and servers. Ubuntu is certified to work out-of-the-box with various hardware configurations, providing a reliable and hassle-free experience.

Cloud and Server Capabilities: Ubuntu is widely used in data centers and cloud environments, powering servers and virtual machines. It is claimed to be the most popular operating system in the cloud, offering scalability and flexibility for cloud-native applications and large-scale server deployments.

Internet of Things (IoT) Support: Ubuntu provides Ubuntu Core, an optimized version for IoT devices. It is fully containerized, has a low footprint, and supports advanced security features. Ubuntu Core is widely used in various IoT applications, including robotics, smart homes, and gateways.

Livepatch Service: Ubuntu Pro includes the Livepatch service, which eliminates the need for unplanned maintenance windows by patching the Linux kernel while the system runs. It reduces downtime and ensures continuous service with automatic kernel security hotfixes without rebooting.

Expanded Security Maintenance (ESM): Ubuntu offers security maintenance for the entire collection of software packages shipped with Ubuntu, providing continuous vulnerability management for critical, high, and medium CVEs. It includes security updates and kernel livepatching for high and critical CVEs, offering 10 years of security coverage for Ubuntu LTS releases.

Ubuntu Technical Details

Operating SystemsUnspecified
Mobile ApplicationNo

Frequently Asked Questions

Ubuntu Linux is a Linux-based operating system for personal computers, tablets and smartphones. There is also a Server version which is used on physical or virtual servers in the data center.

Reviewers rate Support Rating highest, with a score of 8.6.

The most common users of Ubuntu are from Small Businesses (1-50 employees).
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Comparisons

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Reviews and Ratings

(294)

Community Insights

TrustRadius Insights are summaries of user sentiment data from TrustRadius reviews and, when necessary, 3rd-party data sources. Have feedback on this content? Let us know!

Ubuntu Linux is a versatile operating system that has found its place in a wide range of industries and applications. Organizations across various sectors rely on Ubuntu for their internal applications, hosting servers, local development workstations, and virtual machines. The platform provides a consistent and efficient platform for development and IT departments, ensuring seamless deployment and maintenance of workstations and servers. Additionally, Ubuntu's popularity extends to data science projects, where it serves as an ideal choice for web app deployment.

Many users appreciate Ubuntu's maturity and robust community support, making it their preferred operating system for Machine Learning Engineering needs. Ubuntu's extensive support for Machine Learning packages further solidifies its position as the go-to solution for organizations requiring such capabilities. Moreover, Ubuntu finds application in specific system requirements in clouds and proof-of-concept projects, where it is used in virtual machines and servers.

Ubuntu's appeal transcends organizational needs as well. Many professionals and employees prefer Ubuntu over other operating systems for work purposes, allowing them to have a diverse fleet of devices for testing and bug isolation. Engineers benefit from Ubuntu's streamlined automated deployment capabilities for applications and client apps. Furthermore, Ubuntu shines when it comes to serving as web servers, database servers, and various other servers within organizations.

Ubuntu Linux stands out as a stable platform with strong community support, making it the main driver for desktops in many scenarios. Its popularity is rooted in providing a reliable base with long-term support releases, accessibility for new users, easy package management, and a dedicated user base. The advantages of Ubuntu extend beyond desktop use; it is commonly chosen as an operating system for web servers in the Amazon cloud and virtualized instances in corporate networks.

The versatility of Ubuntu Linux becomes evident when considering its varied applications across multiple industries. It is leveraged as the primary operating system for multimedia rooms to manage AV materials and handle streaming video or television recording. Additionally, Ubuntu finds purpose in open-source solutions, security purposes, and other appropriate Linux situations. Telephony platforms also benefit from Ubuntu's dependable platform, which facilitates the rapid deployment of telephony integrations and web apps while ensuring granular security access to telephony components.

Educational and research institutions embrace Ubuntu Linux for its compatibility with artificial intelligence, programming, robotics, and embedded systems. Furthermore, it is utilized effectively in high-stakes testing, finance, and software development sectors due to its intuitive interface and ease of learning. Ubuntu's lightweight nature, wide software and hardware support, and a large user base make it a preferred choice in various sectors, including high-stakes testing, finance, and software development.

In addition to its wide range of applications, Ubuntu Linux has proven to be a cost-effective solution for both desktop and laptop usage. It offers superior performance and compatibility with Windows and Mac OS, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking an alternative operating system. Ubuntu's lightweight nature allows it to breathe new life into older hardware by providing a modern interface, improved responsiveness, and access to open-source applications.

Notably, Ubuntu Linux serves as a reliable and affordable server platform for businesses. It is commonly used for running important software packages, such as web servers, VPN servers, file servers, and other server appliances. Its stability and modern software versions make it an ideal choice for organizations in need of dependable setup and maintenance.

Ubuntu Linux also thrives in the field of software development. It is widely utilized by developers for various tasks ranging from individual application development to test and production servers. With its developer-friendly features and intuitive interface, Ubuntu simplifies the development process and meets the requirements of software developers effectively.

Moreover, Ubuntu Linux finds application in specific use cases such as multi-tier backup implementations, web server testing, network monitoring, wikis, hosting websites, VPN servers, and more. Its robust capabilities make it an indispensable tool for researchers engaged in computationally intensive work.

Overall, Ubuntu Linux continues to gain popularity due to its versatility across multiple industries and its ability to solve various computing needs. With its stable platform, strong community support, wide range of applications, and cost-effectiveness, Ubuntu offers users a reliable operating system that enhances productivity and extends the lifespan of devices.

Efficient and Resourceful: Users have consistently praised Ubuntu Linux for its efficiency and resourcefulness, allowing them to extend the life of aging hardware and meet smaller demands such as word processing and web browsing. Several users have stated that Ubuntu has helped them save money by eliminating the need for expensive hardware upgrades.

Large Support Community: The vast user base of Ubuntu has resulted in a large support community that is easily accessible. Many users appreciate the convenience of being able to gather information and find solutions to their requirements through web searches. This active support community has been a valuable resource for troubleshooting issues and finding answers quickly.

Stability and Reliability: Ubuntu Linux is highly regarded for its stability and reliability, with many users noting that they rarely encounter bugs or issues. This consistent performance has provided peace of mind to users, particularly those working on professional projects that require a stable environment.

Confusing User Interface: Many users have expressed frustration with the confusing user interface of Ubuntu Linux, stating that it makes tasks cumbersome and difficult to navigate. The lack of intuitive design and inconsistent placement of settings and options have been major pain points for users.

Challenging App Store Search Function: Numerous users have mentioned that the app store search function in Ubuntu barely works, making it extremely challenging to find and install desired software. Users often struggle with inaccurate search results or an inability to locate specific applications, resulting in a frustrating experience.

Lack of Support for Popular Middleware like cPanel: Some users consider the absence of support for popular middleware like cPanel as a drawback. This limitation restricts their ability to easily manage websites or servers using familiar tools, forcing them to explore alternative solutions or adapt to different interfaces.

Attribute Ratings

Reviews

(1-25 of 43)
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January 17, 2024

Ubuntu Linux Review

Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
It isn't every day you speak about these things in the office with colleagues, however I'd strongly recommend this OS to colleagues or early Linux beginners to learn and understand how the Linux world works. Mastering this operating system in its integrity and tools with the help of its stability and easy comprehension of the latter is a great first step.
Subhan Raj | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 7 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Well, if you're looking for a development environment for Software Development, Android Development, Web Applications etc, you can go 100% with the Ubuntu Linux, but if you want to be a Graphic designer, Video Editor, animator, Game developer etc, I would say not to go fully with Ubuntu, that's not because Ubuntu is not great in these tasks, but the lack of support of some proprietary software on the Ubuntu Linux, which makes is harder for a newcomer to work on the Ubuntu Linux.
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Ubuntu Linux works great for a lightweight, easy-to-learn and stand up distro of Linux. You really can't go wrong, and Canonical really supports this distro well with two channels: LTS (long-term support) and the more recent channel if you are more daring. I recommend LTS for all scenarios as it has been much more thoroughly tested for compatibility.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
When suited:

  • When you need a Linux based OS that respects your privacy.
  • For ML engineers.
  • For an easy to use interface.

When not suited:
  • For non power users go for windows e.g. for Business Analysts, Managers, etc.
  • If you extensively use Microsoft office go for Windows.
  • If you are a gamer, go for Windows.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Best cases I see for Ubuntu is to manage cloud applications with its architecture. It is easy to implement on Linux based systems and is more safe and reliable in case of process management and virus attacks.
On the contrary it is not suitable to use for beginners who are familiar to work in a good GUI environment.
May 10, 2021

Power User OS

Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
If you're a power user and feel like the OS is too often in the way of your workflows, then Ubuntu Linux is a good choice, especially if you are constrained by locked down user environments and walled gardens. If all you need is a browser, then something simpler will suffice.
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
If you have knowledge of how to use terminal, then you can complete work very very fast. Sometime the user may feel like they need a better UI. That is a problem because that new user might hesitate to start using Ubuntu Linux. But every good thing has a learning curve, so learning and using it is worth your time.
Gaurav Masand | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Cases where Ubuntu Linux is best suited:
  • When you want easy deployment of applications
  • When you want customizable systems to work on
  • When you don't like Windows in particular--it is the alternative
  • When you want to be a part of large community of developers using Ubuntu Linux and want a steep learning curve
April 13, 2021

Ubuntu as a developer

Balázs Kiss | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
If somebody whishes to be an IT professional, learning the basics of Linux is amust. Ubuntu [Linux] is one of the most beginner-friendly, widely supported, easy-to-use-relative-to-the-fact-that-its-still-linux OS on the market. As somebody who learned the basics of UNIX/LINUX on Ubuntu, it was a very good experience. It is customizable, has a lot of improvements over the years, and live up to be a viable alternative to any modern OS in 2021 as well.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
For a regular not tech savvy user, Ubuntu [Linux] is a piece of cake once installed, and for the tech savvy, super simple to install. And even for the not as tech savvy it is easy.

Server specs don't need to be great, it'll run on anything, though what cpu/memory you'll need depends on your use case.
Mauricio E Gleizer | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Scenario 1 well suited: Companies that need to save on software expenses, especially micro and small.
Scenario 2 well suited: Companies that are more concerned with security in Information Technology, with large amounts of sensitive data.
Scenario 3 well suited: Beginners in software development / programming, who want a steeper and more demanding learning curve.

Less appropriate scenario 1: Gamers, especially professionals, who need to run the most modern and most demanding games with graphics cards.

Score 7 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I usually recommend Ubuntu desktop software for people who are just beginning with Linux and have hardware that can handle it, as learning how the user interface works is relatively easy. I recommend Ubuntu server simply because we are experienced with it and are able to advise on setup and maintenance. I recommend Ubuntu also because it has a large user base that is active on the Internet, which means that help is usually available for even obscure-seeming problems.
However, for reviving older hardware, I often do not recommend Ubuntu because:
(a) later versions are exclusively 64-bit and (b) among Linux distributions, Ubuntu is usually heavy.
For people using older hardware, I usually recommend Puppy Linux versions that have been adapted from Ubuntu. I am perfectly happy to recommend Ubuntu for any people or organizations that primarily work on the Internet, however.
In many cases, Ubuntu is unsuitable simple because it does not run particular pieces of software designed for other operating systems (Windows, in particular). This is an special problem in many commercial enterprises that use proprietary or branded software. There are even some excellent open-source software packages that are available for Windows that are not for any form of Linux.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Ubuntu [Linux], just like many Linux distributions runs on a variety of systems, supports deployment on to many different types of hardware, and is scalable. It has a rich package management system that is well developed and maintained which ensures compatibility with upgrades. It's low memory and disk footprint makes it our preferred choice for Linux distro.
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
For an all purpose server, Ubuntu works quite well and includes all the common packages out of the gate. It is easy to set up and most system administrators are already knowledgable on how to use it. However, it's not a "lightweight" OS by any definition, with a large amount of packages going unused on the majority of VM's. If you're looking for a very lightweight, resource-nimble OS, look elsewhere.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I would say that Ubuntu Linux is a well rounded distribution for server and desktop needs. If you are looking for bleeding edge performance or packages you may want to look at a distribution that does rolling releases, but this is usually not needed in a business setting outside of HPC in my experience. The large selection of window managers allows for great customization when used in a desktop setting. We prefer to leave our servers without a GUI, obviously, for performance and resource reasons.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
You can definitely use Ubuntu in the enterprise environment as long as your stuff is open-source, however if you are working on super private stuff then it is definitely not the logical choice to make. If you are planning to use Linux as your desktop environment then there is just no better alternative in terms of speed to Ubuntu in the stable Linux market. So regardless of who you are, it is always a good option.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
We use Ubuntu for 75% of our workstations, 100% of our devs are running Ubuntu and this greatly improved their efficiency. Easily using Docker and Vagrant, for local environments to test their software. Departments that were heavily relying on Microsoft Office had a little bit harder transition. There is no way to run Excel Macro on Linux without at least losing a little bit of the functionality. There are alternatives, for example, Google Sheets can do similar things with javascript. Power users that navigated using key combinations had to relearn as well.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Ubuntu Linux has such a strong user community that it is easy to justify using it as your chosen development platform. Any issues that you may encounter in migrating to Ubuntu have likely already been addressed by the community. In addition, developers will love the easy package management, making it trivial to leverage existing packages to make development quicker and easier. The package management helps users deal with dependencies without spending substantial time figuring out an endless chain of requirements just to get the package they want working. In short, Ubuntu Linux makes it faster and easier for developers to be productive.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Ubuntu is definitely one of the friendliest Linux distros out there and can be a good OS replacement for computers both new and old. Older hardware benefits from a slight boost in performance when compared to Windows. There are plenty of applications that are free or low-cost available via Ubuntu's built-in software store that works very similarly to Microsoft's equivalent software and file formats are compatible.

One caveat is that these equivalent applications will perform most of the functionality the same but they are not an exact copy of Microsoft's software and some features may be unavailable. If you absolutely require a Microsoft product like Access, Microsoft SQL Server, Visio or Project, you'd best look elsewhere as there are currently no versions available for Linux. While you may be able to use Wine or PlayOnLinux to get the applications to run, your mileage may vary and a lot of time, research and tweaking will be required to make things work as expected.
Christian Shaheen | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 7 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Ubuntu Linux is well suited for any set-and-forget systems. It is easy to update (given a snapshot option) and has lots of good information/documentation online. I go straight to Ubuntu for just about any server application it has a package for. I still use and recommend Windows for file servers and desktops/general purpose machines. Ubuntu is also great in a budget situation. Since Ubuntu is based on Linux and is open sourced, the team maintain it doesn't charge licensing fees.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
If you are using low-horsepower hardware and open-source software will satisfy your business needs, Ubuntu is a great platform. If you are working with web-based applications, there's probably no reason Ubuntu won't work fine for you. For many server applications, the Ubuntu Server LTS (Long Term Support) distribution is excellent. However, if you are in an Apple-centric ecosystem, or are heavily invested in a Microsoft Office workflow, you may not find Ubuntu a good fit. It's notable that even on my Windows development machines I always have an Ubuntu virtual machine (or one running under Windows Subsystem for Linux) that I keep handy for web development tasks or other online work that may be awkward under Windows Powershell.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
The most common use for Ubuntu Linux is probably for web-based applications. It is fairly simple to install the LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP) which is used by many open source web-based applications. The Apache web server is one of the most commonly used web servers and is fast and stable.
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