9 best reasons to use Ubuntu Linux
Ubuntu is a Linux distribution based on Debian created in 2004. It is one of the most widely used distributions for a variety of different reasons. It is currently developed and funded by Canonical Ltd. who offer support and constant updates for the operating system. A default installation of Ubuntu includes a variety of different software I’ve talked about before, including LibreOffice, Transmission, Thunderbird, and Firefox. If you’ve been considering switching to Ubuntu but are unsure about it, here are nine reasons to use Ubuntu Linux!
1. Help and support
By far one of the best things about Ubuntu Linux is the community that surrounds it. Out of all the Linux distributions out there, it manages to have the best support for its users.
Many will say that the reason Ubuntu has so many avenues for support is that it’s the most “well-known” Linux OS. Well, they’re right. A lot of people regularly talk about Ubuntu, and that’s great for the average user.
The support systems that Ubuntu users have access to are AskUbuntu, the Ubuntu official forums, many Reddit communities, IRC channels, along with dozens of tutorial articles dedicated to the popular Linux operating system.
Having a good support system is reason enough to use Ubuntu, considering Linux is less easy to use than something like Microsoft Windows or Apple’s macOS.
2. Software availability
Those coming to Linux from Windows and Mac often say that the platform lacks the software they like. Concerns about software selection are legitimate and one that the Linux community is continuously trying to fix and deal with. Still, while it’s true that there are apps that will probably never make it to the Linux platform, it’s worth noting that out of all the Linux-based operating systems out there, Ubuntu has the broadest range of software (both open source and proprietary) available for users out of the box.
3. Easy and simple to use
Ubuntu Linux is described as “Linux for human beings.” It’s a true statement! By far, out of all the Linux-based operating systems that are available on the market today, none come close to the ease of use that Ubuntu provides. From installing complicated video drivers to getting Netflix and Hulu working, to setting up a dual-boot system with Microsoft Windows, Ubuntu is best!
4. Long Term Support releases
A common reason why some choose to avoid Linux is that it appears to be less “stable” than other operating systems. Fears about operating system stability are understandable, but overall, Linux has come a long way, and gone are the times when everything was broken and unusable.
If you’re afraid of Linux due to the reputation it has of breaking all the time, Ubuntu may be perfect for you, as they have a “long term support” release. This version of Ubuntu focuses on stability and reliability. LTS releases are the most popular version of Ubuntu, and get updates and support for up to 5 years!
5. Proprietary software drivers
Many newcomers to the Linux platform regularly complain about how annoying it is to install non-free drivers. They say it’s cumbersome, confusing, and not very user-friendly.
Thankfully, Ubuntu Linux has an answer to this problem: the Ubuntu driver installation tool. With it, users can quickly get their drivers up and running in a matter of minutes with no prior knowledge necessary! Suffice it to say; if you’re one of the people who hate how other Linux distributions handle installing non-free drivers, this is a great reason to switch over to Ubuntu!
6. PPAs
Personal Package Archives (aka PPAs) are probably one of Ubuntu’s best features. Essentially, it allows any user to host a software repository and deliver regular software updates, bypassing the official Ubuntu update mechanisms in place.
Some might argue that PPAs are unnecessary, as Ubuntu offers relatively recent software updates. Still, if you’re in need of the absolute latest programs, it’s good to know that if you switch to the Ubuntu operating system, you’ll be able to satisfy that need with a PPA.
7. Clean user interface
When it comes to the desktop, Ubuntu developers know that the Linux platform has some real downsides. They know that users need a user interface that makes sense and is easy to use, just like it is on Mac and Windows.
The user interface on Ubuntu is built on the popular Gnome Shell. However, it’s a lot different than other Linux distribution’s setups. Rather than going with the standard Gnome look which may be confusing to new users, it opts for something much more user-friendly, and easy to understand.
8. Snap packages and Flatpaks
The future of Linux program development is “universal packaging,” via Snap packages and Flatpaks. The primary reason that these formats are coming into popularity is simple: developers find it a chore to have to compile their programs for the ever-growing amount of Linux packaging formats.
When you install the Ubuntu operating system, you’ll find that your computer will have quick access to these new exciting packaging formats, ensuring that you’ll be able to quickly gain access to the latest programs uploaded to the Snap store, as well as many of the Flatpak software stores available.
9. Ubuntu for developers
If you’re a programmer, you should be using Ubuntu. Why? Out of all of the Linux distributions out there, few can match up to the support for programmers that Ubuntu has, by way of easy access for development tools.
In addition to all of the development tools that Ubuntu makes available, it’s worth noting that the operating system is incredibly stable: something that software developers desperately need.
Conclusion
In this list, we talked about nine great reasons to use Ubuntu Linux. I hope that the points on this list help you see that it’s a great operating system that is worth your time!
