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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

(26-43 of 43)
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Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Ubuntu Linux appears to be more efficient than Windows, at least on some machines.
  • Ubuntu Linux is very secure and typically requires no antivirus software.
  • Ubuntu Linux utilizes an update system that stays out of the way of the user.
  • Ubuntu Linux is probably the least intimidating of all the different Linux distributions; however, in some cases, the user may still run into problems with certain hardware drivers.
  • The software center that comes with Ubuntu Linux has historically been very buggy. The software center is also supposed to serve as the package manager for the operating system. I believe that Ubuntu could choose a better package manager for the operating system.
  • Generally, Ubuntu Linux allows users to avoid having to use the terminal for interacting with the operating system; however, sometimes it seems that using the terminal is unavoidable. I think that Ubuntu Linux should have a built-in tutorial for all new users to learn at least the basics of the Linux terminal commands.
Leonel Quinteros | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Availability across cloud vendors is unmatched, you can expect that any cloud or hosting setup will offer a Ubuntu Linux image for you to use.
  • Community support is great. Canonical does a great job supporting the system and the community does its part with forum participation, documentation and email support.
  • Being based on Debian, it offers a more "modern" stable system than the former, with newer versions of most software. If you want the quality and stability from a Debian distribution, but also want modern software, this is the distribution of choice.
  • The desktop environment is one of the bests for end users in the Linux ecosystem.
  • Server setup and configuration is easy with the extended utilities and software from Canonical.
  • It's a standard among Linux distributions, so you can trust that almost any Linux software will be packaged for your Ubuntu distribution.
  • I'd like to see Canonical REALLY betting on desktop Linux and move one step forward with innovation in that area to improve user adoption.
  • Desktop UI decisions have been not-so-happy in the past. The ability to move back and forth with Unity has pushed a lot of users in favor of options. Having REAL desktop environment options is something to improve as well.
  • Improvements in interoperability with other OSes would be very welcome. Sometimes it's just hard to communicate with MacOS or Windows across some protocols. Maybe it's due to the private nature of these protocols, but alternatives are around, we just need to compile and improve them.
Gregory Pecqueur | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Open Source so it can be verified by everyone, and is updated faster than proprietary software.
  • It is a very stable and easy administration platform.
  • Ubuntu is easy to learn and has a large and dynamic community.
  • Regular output and support cycle.
  • Much easier to maintain as all deposit programs are automatically updated.
  • Sometimes the drivers to fine-tune the hardware are missing.
  • No accounting software that is currently compliant with French regulations is available.
  • Few preconfigured PC manufacturer offers.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • The community support is phenomenal. There is a complete wealth of documentation just in forum questions alone if you have the willingness to look for them.
  • The popularity among lower cost hosting services (digital ocean, linode, etc) has led those providers to create very nice administrative documentation for Ubuntu that goes above and beyond the quality typical of the community documentation. All of this being accessible without being subscribed to their services.
  • The cost. I mean, this is kind of a "duh" point, but reducing the OS cost of a server isn't something to scoff at.
  • Ubuntu server receives regular updates and security fixes, sometimes faster than other paid OS.
  • I think that Ubuntu (and Linux in general) have an image problem. There is an appearance that you have to be a Linux proficient admin to set up and administer a server, when the reality is that the command line nature lends to the administration being easier than other GUI based OS. I think they need to work on that some to get further market penetration.
  • Update their pre-installed version of python from 3.5
Dave Linden | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Flexibility. It is easy to add and remove services. As our business needs change, so can our Ubuntu Linux system.
  • Software Updates. Very rarely does a software update break Ubuntu. If issues do arise it is fairly easy to back out the changes
  • Third-party applications. The lack of mainstream applications, like MS Office, make it more difficult to deploy any Linux system at the client end.
  • Linux is more of a do it yourself OS. Implementation, support, and use require more technical expertise than other OS's, most notably macOS.
Linda Sasenick | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Ubuntu Linux is extremely resource efficient in using a desktop/laptop system's resources, particularly as compared to my experiences with any Windows product. (Its architecture is the foundation for Chromebooks as well as the Android operating system for smartphones). Eliminating the loading and processing hang-ups I commonly experienced with Windows is a huge plus.
  • The "open source" universe is hugely appealing, both because of high quality, free and compatible software, but also because it allows such a high level of customization. Open source systems and software means no "bloatware," no intrusive programs popping up where you don't want them, and the freedom to purchase outside of a particular vendor.
  • The quality of the operating system is truly a "gold standard" to me. It works, and, unlike Windows, doesn't have the "back door" security vulnerabilities Windows is constantly trying to patch.
  • Although it's continually improving, Ubuntu Linux doesn't come preloaded on equipment (generally) and it takes some know how to set it up, configure and function with it.
  • Generally, the open source software which runs on Ubuntu Linux offers really good compatibility with Windows or Mac products, but, sometimes it just doesn't work, and you're on your own to research what's going on. There are a lot of forums for Ubuntu Linux users, but, it can be frustrating.
  • Traditional "support" for Ubuntu Linux is non-existent - because it is open source (and free!), there is no online "team" to chat with or call when you're having a tech meltdown. I think this is an inherent trade-off in the "for profit" and "open source" model - again, there are lots of forums, and users who've been very generous with their time is helping people sort things out, but it is not a system for anyone not willing to invest some time in the learning curve.
Erick de Leon Ponciano | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • It is a very stable and easy administration platform. It defines roles and profiles for installation, graphic environment and only command. line.
  • In the internal operation is a platform that helps us to support websites for employees. Its integration with web services and its graphic environment make an easy management of the platform.
  • It is very useful to carry out tests and validations in its desktop versions, for the development area it allows having virtual environments and doing many tests before launching a service.
  • Cleaning of packages or incomplete installations in a graphic environment
  • Better documentation and help for the configuration of the firewall, in the graphics mode, and the command line. Not all users are experts in this area and implementing it can be very difficult.
December 18, 2018

Full Ubuntu Linux Review

Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Very easy GUI to maneuver around in.
  • Many choices of compatible applications to use with Ubuntu.
  • There are straight terminal based functions that you do not find in Windows.
  • I have found that Ubuntu has had some hardware compatibility issues, but those issue have disappeared in each evolution of it.
  • There aren't too many areas they can improve with this OS-- they keep up with things available in Windows fairly well.
Score 5 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Usability ( ease of installation)
  • "Store" concept: bringing package management (in Linux this has always been a problem) into the 21st century
  • Flexibility ( there are sub-distros of Ubuntu)
  • Debian-based (so some sanity in package management)
  • Too system-oriented: often contains large libraries to accomplish just one small problem (remind of you another OS?)
  • Requires too many resources to run simple software (i.e. TOO pretty)
  • Unity.
Maike Holthuijzen | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • The user interface is sleek, intuitive, and easy to use. I love it! It is also highly customizable.
  • Package installation is very easy. You can either download via the command prompt or search for packages within the Ubuntu software center and download via the GUI.
  • Ubuntu is much more lightweight than Windows, has less bugs, and is more stable.
  • Not all software is compatible with Ubuntu Linux. Many of our collaborators use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.), which makes sharing files difficult.
  • Adobe is not available for Ubuntu Linux, and although it is not a huge issue, it is somewhat annoying when working with collaborators who do use Adobe software.
  • Hardware support for Ubuntu operating systems is limited.
Christopher Sweets | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Intuitive, easy to learn interface
  • Secure from the bottom up
  • Cost effective, free
  • Default colors are childish, but easily updated
  • Decent, but not great learning curve for new admins and help desk
  • Most business users will want to stick to LTS releases
Jeff Hanson | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Ubuntu Linux is an efficient operating system and can be used to extend the life of aging hardware and provide essentially free OS software for smaller demands such as word processing, web browsing, software development.
  • Ubuntu provides command line install tools for common open source applications and provides a nice way to consciously update software.
  • Ubuntu is widely used and has a vast support community. I am able to easily gather information about requirements I have through web searches.
  • Linux is open source and has no licensing fees.
  • I currently do not have improvement comments for Ubuntu server in the areas of performance vs. its Linux counterparts.
  • Ubuntu does not support as much software as the Windows OS community. While it supports common productivity software such as Libre Office, many client installed games and applications will not run on Linux.
  • Linux does not support all hardware and peripherals. An embedded wifi adapter that works in Windows may not work with Ubuntu.
February 15, 2018

Best for the Developer

Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
  • Free
  • Good for the development Purpose
  • Any Repo you can add
  • Support needs to be improved
  • User interface for beginners
  • Installation process
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Easy install
  • Support for almost all hardware
  • Easy install of new software via apptitude
  • Better dock
  • Further or easier support for integration into a Windows Server environment. Unfortunately a lot of companies have Active Directory as their backbone
  • Better support for extended monitors
  • More customizable docks
Chris Putnam | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
  • Community Support
  • Hardware Support
  • Relative Ease of Use
  • Reliability - always more bugs to track down with large hardware base.
  • Documentation - Bridging the gap between first time users and experts. Community support is excellent for this though.
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