What Is Ubuntu? A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Linux, Features, Pros, and Use Cases

1. What Is Ubuntu? Overview of the Basics

What Kind of OS Is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is an operating system (OS) built on the Linux kernel. There are many Linux distributions, but Ubuntu is among the most popular. It is widely used by both individuals and enterprises, and it runs across various environments such as desktop PCs, servers, and cloud platforms.

Relationship with Linux

Ubuntu is developed based on another Linux distribution called Debian. While Debian is known for its high stability and long-term support, its configuration can be complex for beginners. Ubuntu inherits Debian’s stability but improves usability, making it far more accessible for first-time Linux users.

Why Is Ubuntu So Popular?

Several reasons contribute to Ubuntu’s widespread popularity.

1. Free to Use
   Ubuntu is open-source software and is available at no cost for both personal and commercial use. With no expensive licensing fees, it significantly reduces operational costs.
2. User-Friendly for Beginners
   Ubuntu offers a graphical user interface (GUI) similar to Windows or macOS, making it easy for newcomers to operate without needing deep Linux knowledge.
3. Rich Software Availability
   Through the Software Center, users can easily install browsers, office suites, development tools, and more. Major tools like Google Chrome, Firefox, LibreOffice, and Visual Studio Code are available instantly.
4. High Stability and Security
   Ubuntu delivers regular updates and patches that quickly address vulnerabilities. Linux systems are inherently resistant to many viruses, making Ubuntu highly secure.
5. Versatile Use Cases
   From desktops to servers, cloud systems, and embedded devices, Ubuntu is suitable for diverse environments. It is even used by major tech companies such as Google and Amazon.

How Is Ubuntu Different from Windows or macOS?

Ubuntu has several distinctive characteristics compared to Windows and macOS. The table below highlights the main differences.

Ubuntu excels in customization and security, but it has fewer supported applications compared to Windows. Choosing the right OS depends on your intended use case.

Summary

Ubuntu is a beginner-friendly Linux distribution that offers strong security, no licensing costs, and excellent performance for programming and server use. Understanding its history and development background in the next chapter will help you appreciate Ubuntu’s strengths even further.

2. The History and Development of Ubuntu

The Birth of Ubuntu and Canonical

Ubuntu was initiated in 2004 by South African entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth, who set out to make Linux easier for everyone to use.

The Establishment of Canonical

Shuttleworth founded Canonical Ltd. in 2004 as the organization responsible for Ubuntu’s development and maintenance. Canonical supports Ubuntu’s growth and provides enterprise services and cloud solutions to accelerate Linux adoption.

Origin of the Name “Ubuntu”

The word Ubuntu comes from the Zulu and Xhosa languages and means “humanity toward others” or “human kindness.” This philosophy aligns with the open-source vision of providing software that is freely available to everyone.

The First Release

The first Ubuntu release, Ubuntu 4.10 (codename Warty Warthog), was launched in October 2004. It offered an easier installation process and a user-friendly interface, making Linux more approachable for beginners.

Ubuntu Release Cycle and LTS

Ubuntu is known for its regular release cycle, issuing a new version every six months.

Types of Releases

Ubuntu versions are named using the format YY.MM, such as Ubuntu 22.04, which indicates a release from April 2022.

What Is an LTS Release?

LTS releases provide five years of official security updates, making them ideal for businesses and servers seeking stability. LTS versions are released every two years.

Examples of Major LTS Versions

LTS versions are widely adopted in cloud and enterprise environments, including major companies like Google and Netflix.

Evolution of Ubuntu

Since its first release, Ubuntu has evolved for more than 20 years, undergoing numerous advancements.

• Desktop Environment Changes

• Initially used GNOME 2
• Switched to Unity in 2011 for usability improvements
• Returned to GNOME 3 in 2017 (still current)
• Cloud and Server Adoption

• Ubuntu Server is widely used on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
• Ubuntu Core supports embedded and IoT systems
• Security Enhancements

• Regular updates and patches improve cybersecurity
• Introduced “Snaps” for safer application packaging
• Expanding Flavors

• Options like Kubuntu (KDE) and Xubuntu (XFCE) provide unique user experiences
• Other variants include Ubuntu MATE and Ubuntu Budgie

Summary

Since 2004, Ubuntu has grown into a Linux distribution used across desktops, servers, and cloud platforms. Its stability, regular updates, and variety of desktop flavors make it one of the most accessible and versatile operating systems available today.

3. Features and Advantages of Ubuntu

Free and Open Source

Ubuntu is a completely free and open-source operating system. Unlike Windows or macOS, it does not require a paid license, making it accessible to individuals, schools, and businesses without additional cost.

What Is Open Source?

Open source refers to software whose source code is publicly available and can be viewed, modified, and redistributed by anyone. This community-driven development process allows global contributors to enhance Ubuntu, fix bugs, and add new features continuously.

Benefits of Being Free

• No licensing fees (advantageous for companies and educational institutions)
• Works even on older hardware (no need to purchase new PCs)
• Ideal alternative to paid operating systems

High Security

Because Ubuntu is based on the Linux kernel, it has a lower security risk compared to Windows.

Why Linux Is Secure

• Low exposure to viruses
  Linux-based systems like Ubuntu are structurally resistant to malware, reducing the need for antivirus software.
• Strict permission management
  Only users with administrator (root) privileges can modify critical system files, preventing unauthorized execution of malicious programs.
• Regular security updates
  LTS versions provide five years of security patches, ensuring long-term protection.

Real-World Use Cases

• Enterprise server environments (used by Google, Netflix, Amazon, and other major tech companies)
• Government agencies and financial institutions that require strong security policies

Lightweight and Fast

Ubuntu is a relatively lightweight OS that performs well even on older or low-end hardware.

System Requirements

This makes Ubuntu an excellent option for revitalizing older PCs that struggle to run newer versions of Windows.

Lightweight Ubuntu Flavors

• Xubuntu (XFCE) – Lightweight and responsive desktop environment
• Lubuntu (LXQt) – Even lighter, ideal for very old hardware and low-power laptops

Multiple Desktop Environments

Ubuntu offers a selection of desktop environments through different flavors, allowing users to choose based on preference and hardware capability.

Major Ubuntu Flavors

Users switching from Windows or macOS may find Kubuntu (Windows-like) or standard Ubuntu (macOS-like UI) more familiar and easier to adapt to.

Summary

Ubuntu stands out for being free, secure, lightweight, and versatile. It offers multiple desktop environments, supports old hardware, and enables users to build virus-resistant work environments. These strengths make Ubuntu particularly valuable for personal use, business deployments, and education.

4. Drawbacks of Ubuntu (Important Considerations)

Although Ubuntu offers many advantages, it may not be the perfect choice for every user. Those accustomed to Windows or macOS may encounter challenges during installation or daily use. This chapter explains the key drawbacks and points to consider when using Ubuntu.

Some Software Is Not Available

Because Ubuntu is a Linux-based OS, software designed exclusively for Windows or macOS may not run natively. Pay particular attention to the compatibility of the following applications:

Major Software That Is Difficult to Use on Ubuntu

Workarounds

• Use alternative applications (e.g., Microsoft Office → LibreOffice, Photoshop → GIMP)
• Use a virtual machine or Wine to run Windows applications within Ubuntu
• Use cloud-based software like Google Docs or Microsoft 365 Web apps

However, these options do not guarantee full compatibility. If your workflow depends on specific Windows or macOS applications, migrating entirely to Ubuntu should be carefully evaluated.

Learning Curve for Beginners

Compared to Windows or macOS, Ubuntu may feel more complex to operate and configure. Users unfamiliar with Linux will likely require time to adjust, especially because command-line (terminal) operations are more common.

Common Challenges for New Users

• Different software installation methods
• Windows: Install with a double-click
• Ubuntu: Often requires commands like sudo apt install package-name
• Terminal usage
• Used for troubleshooting and configuration changes
• Basic commands must be learned (e.g., ls for file listing, cd for directory navigation)
• Driver issues
• Some printers and Wi-Fi adapters may not be recognized by default

Solutions

• Use beginner-friendly books or online tutorials
• Rely on the GUI wherever possible to reduce terminal usage
• Consider beginner-oriented Ubuntu variants like Linux Mint or Kubuntu

Limited Gaming Support

Many popular Windows-based games do not run natively on Ubuntu, making it less suitable for gamers.

Ubuntu’s Gaming Capabilities

• Native Linux games are supported through Steam and open-source titles
• Steam Proton allows some Windows games to run on Linux
• Tools like Lutris or PlayOnLinux provide compatibility layers but may require tuning

Key Limitations

• No native DirectX support (reducing compatibility with many Windows game engines)
• Performance tuning may be required for optimal gameplay

Workarounds

• Use Steam Proton to run supported Windows titles
• Use cloud gaming services such as GeForce NOW or Google Stadia
• Dual-boot with Windows when full compatibility is required

Ubuntu is improving its gaming performance, but it still lags behind Windows for dedicated gamers.

Hardware Compatibility Issues

Ubuntu supports a wide range of hardware, but certain specialized devices or older components may experience compatibility problems.

Typical Compatibility Issues

Solutions

• Check official Ubuntu hardware compatibility lists beforehand
• Install updated drivers (especially for NVIDIA GPUs)
• Purchase a system with Ubuntu preinstalled (available from Dell, Lenovo, etc.)

Summary

Ubuntu offers many benefits, but it also has drawbacks such as software compatibility, initial learning curve, gaming limitations, and hardware support issues. Users coming from Windows or macOS may find the adjustment period challenging. Understanding these points ahead of time will ensure a smoother transition.

5. How to Use Ubuntu and Practical Use Cases

Ubuntu is utilized in a wide range of environments—from desktop systems to servers, cloud platforms, and development workstations. This chapter provides detailed explanations on how Ubuntu can be used effectively in different scenarios.

Using Ubuntu as a Desktop OS

Ubuntu can function as a general-purpose desktop operating system. It is often viewed as a compelling alternative to Windows or macOS.

What You Can Do with Ubuntu

• Internet browsing
• Compatible with browsers like Firefox and Google Chrome
• Web services such as YouTube, SNS, Gmail, and Google Docs work seamlessly
• Office tasks
• LibreOffice comes preinstalled and provides Word-, Excel-, and PowerPoint-compatible tools
• Web-based suites such as Google Docs and Microsoft 365 are supported
• Email, chat, and video conferencing
• Thunderbird for email, Slack, Zoom, and Skype for communication
• Media playback and editing
• VLC for multimedia playback
• GIMP for image editing and Kdenlive for video editing

Features of Ubuntu Desktop

• Simple and intuitive UI (similar to Windows or macOS)
• A launcher similar to the Windows Start menu allows easy access to applications
• New software can be installed easily through the “Ubuntu Software Center”

Advantages of Ubuntu as a Desktop OS

✅ Completely free to use
✅ Lightweight and fast, even on older machines
✅ Highly secure with fewer malware threats

Disadvantages of Ubuntu as a Desktop OS

⚠ Full versions of Microsoft Office and Adobe software are not available
⚠ Certain specialized applications lack compatibility
⚠ Not ideal for heavy PC gaming, though workarounds exist

Ubuntu is an excellent choice for users who primarily work in a browser-focused environment and want to reduce operating system costs.

Using Ubuntu as a Server

Ubuntu is widely adopted as a server operating system, particularly among enterprises and web service providers, due to its outstanding reliability and performance.

What Is Ubuntu Server?

Ubuntu Server is a desktop-less version of Ubuntu optimized for lightweight, stable operation, making it suitable for long-term deployments.

Common Server Use Cases

• Web servers (Apache, Nginx)
• Hosting websites such as WordPress or static sites
• Database servers (MySQL, PostgreSQL)
• Storing and managing cloud or web service data
• File servers (Samba, NFS)
• Managing shared files within organizations
• Cloud environments (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure)
• Running virtual machines based on Ubuntu Server
• Container development
• Supports Docker and Kubernetes-based deployments

Advantages of Ubuntu Server

✅ Lightweight and stable for long-term use
✅ No licensing fees required
✅ Fully customizable as open-source software

Disadvantages of Ubuntu Server

⚠ No graphical interface by default (command-line use required)
⚠ Requires server administration knowledge

Ubuntu Server is a top-tier choice for enterprise cloud environments and online services.

Ubuntu as a Development Environment

Ubuntu is considered one of the best OS options for developers, thanks to its strong compatibility with a wide range of programming languages, frameworks, and tools.

Why Ubuntu Is Ideal for Development

• Supports various programming languages
• Python, Java, C, C++, Ruby, PHP, and more
• Compatible with major IDEs and editors
• Visual Studio Code, PyCharm, Eclipse, Vim, and others
• Optimized for Linux-based development
• Easily integrates with servers and cloud systems
• Suitable for AI and machine learning
• Compatible with TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Jupyter Notebook
• Strong support for NVIDIA GPU acceleration

Advantages of Ubuntu as a Development Environment

✅ Supports major languages and tools
✅ Smooth workflow between development and deployment
✅ Free to use, minimizing development costs

Disadvantages of Ubuntu for Development

⚠ Some IDEs and GUI tools are optimized for Windows/macOS first
⚠ Beginners may find environment setup challenging

Ubuntu provides an excellent environment for programmers, engineers, and data scientists.

Summary

Ubuntu is suitable for desktop computing, server management, and software development. Its low cost, strong security, and wide range of applications make it a powerful choice for both personal and professional use.

Ubuntu remains one of the strongest options for everyday computing, business environments, and modern software development.

6. How to Install Ubuntu (Beginner-Friendly Guide)

Unlike Windows or macOS, Ubuntu is available for free, making it accessible to anyone. This chapter explains step-by-step how to install Ubuntu, even for beginners.

Check System Requirements

Before installing Ubuntu, make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements needed to run it smoothly.

Recommended Specifications for Ubuntu

Even low-power PCs can run Ubuntu, but for a comfortable experience, a system with at least 4GB of RAM and 50GB of storage is recommended.

Lightweight Flavors for Lower-End Devices

• Xubuntu (XFCE) → Lightweight and suitable for older PCs
• Lubuntu (LXQt) → Extremely lightweight and ideal for low-power laptops

Create Installation Media

To install Ubuntu, you need to create a bootable USB drive or DVD containing the Ubuntu installer (ISO image).

① Download the Ubuntu ISO File

Download the latest version of Ubuntu from the official website:

🔗 Ubuntu Official Download Page

② Create a Bootable USB

Use a USB stick with at least 8GB of capacity to create a bootable installation medium.

For Windows Users

1. Download Rufus
2. Launch Rufus and select the downloaded ISO file
3. Choose FAT32 as the file system
4. Click Start to write the ISO to USB

For macOS Users

1. Download balenaEtcher
2. Select the ISO file in Etcher
3. Choose the USB device and click Flash

Ubuntu Installation Steps

① Boot from USB

• Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (press keys like F2, F12, or ESC during startup)
• Set the USB drive as the highest boot priority in the Boot Menu
• When the system starts from USB, you will see the option to Try Ubuntu or Install Ubuntu

② Start the Ubuntu Installer

1. Select your language and click Install Ubuntu
2. Choose your keyboard layout
3. Select the installation type

• Normal installation → Includes browser and office tools
• Minimal installation → Lightweight install with fewer applications

③ Configure Disk Partitions

• For Ubuntu-only installation: Select Erase disk and install Ubuntu
• For dual boot with Windows: Select Install Ubuntu alongside Windows and allocate disk space (50GB or more recommended)

④ Create User Information

• Enter your username and password
• Click Continue to start installation

⑤ Complete Installation and Reboot

• After installation, remove the USB drive and reboot the system
• If the login screen appears, Ubuntu installation was successful!

Post-Installation Setup

To start using Ubuntu efficiently, complete the following essential setup steps:

① Configure Japanese Input (Mozc)

Some installations default to English input. Enable Japanese input if needed.

1. Open Settings → Region & Language
2. Add Japanese (Mozc) to input sources
3. Toggle input with Shift + Space

② Update the System

Ensure Ubuntu is up-to-date by running:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

③ Install Useful Applications

Ubuntu includes essential apps, but adding more can enhance usability.

sudo apt install -y google-chrome-stable vlc gimp libreoffice

Recommended Applications

• Google Chrome – Fast and secure browser
• VLC Media Player – Plays most audio/video formats
• GIMP – Powerful open-source image editor
• LibreOffice – Microsoft Office-compatible suite

Summary

Installing Ubuntu is relatively simple, but proper preparation is important. If you plan to dual-boot with Windows, always back up important data first.

Once installed, Ubuntu provides a secure, free, and flexible OS environment suitable for personal computing, professional work, and development tasks.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Ubuntu offers many benefits as a Linux distribution, but beginners may still have questions or concerns when getting started. This chapter covers the most common questions about Ubuntu to help new users transition smoothly.

How Is Ubuntu Different from Other Linux Distributions?

Linux comes in many different distributions, each designed for specific audiences and use cases. Ubuntu is particularly beginner-friendly compared to others.

Comparison of Major Linux Distributions

Key Points:
✅ Ubuntu is based on Debian but optimized for beginners with extensive support options.
✅ Fedora and Arch Linux appeal to users who want access to cutting-edge Linux technologies.
✅ Ubuntu LTS releases are ideal for users prioritizing stability.

Can Ubuntu Be Used Alongside Windows or macOS?

Yes, Ubuntu supports dual-boot configurations with Windows or macOS.
However, incorrect configuration can cause boot issues, so take care during the setup process.

How to Dual-Boot with Windows

1. Create unallocated disk space in Windows (50GB or more recommended)
2. Select “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows” during installation
3. Install the GRUB bootloader to choose your OS on startup

Precautions

⚠ Windows updates may overwrite GRUB, requiring repair
⚠ Always back up important data prior to installation

Is Ubuntu Easy for Beginners?

Yes, Ubuntu is easier than most Linux distributions for first-time users.
Choosing a variant like Kubuntu or Linux Mint can make the experience even more comfortable due to Windows-like interfaces.

Why Ubuntu Is Beginner-Friendly

✅ Software Center makes app installation easy
✅ Familiar UI options available based on desktop flavor
✅ Strong support for non-English languages including Japanese

However:
⚠ Windows-exclusive applications like full Microsoft Office and Adobe apps do not run natively
⚠ Understanding basic terminal commands improves troubleshooting

What Kind of PC Can Run Ubuntu?

Ubuntu can run on low-end or older PCs, making it a great way to extend the life of aging hardware.

System Requirements

Lightweight Ubuntu Options

• Xubuntu – Uses XFCE, suitable for older PCs
• Lubuntu – Uses LXQt, optimized for low-power devices

Is Ubuntu Secure?

Yes, Ubuntu is considered more secure than Windows in most use cases.
Linux-based security models reduce exposure to viruses and malicious software.

Why Ubuntu Is Secure

1. Very few Linux-targeted viruses
2. Strong user privilege controls prevent unauthorized system changes
3. Regular updates and patches (LTS offers 5 years of support)

Summary

Ubuntu is a powerful and beginner-friendly Linux distribution, but users should understand its differences from Windows and macOS—especially software compatibility. By reviewing this FAQ, newcomers can start using Ubuntu more confidently.