Ubuntu is a free, open-source operating system built on Linux. Its Desktop edition provides a graphical environment for PCs and laptops, with applications for everyday work and tools for developing software. Ubuntu Desktop is a complete operating system; the Ubuntu terminal environment available through Windows Subsystem for Linux is a separate way to use Ubuntu within Windows.
GNOME desktop
Ubuntu uses the GNOME desktop to present graphical applications and the controls for working with the computer. Its Wayland display system supports touch input and gestures, while per-monitor scaling lets you adjust the size of text and interface elements separately on different screens.
Accessibility work extends across the desktop shell and its applications. Ubuntu also provides applications for viewing documents, pictures and video, alongside a terminal for command-line work.
App Center
Ubuntu’s software collection includes web browsers, office applications, communication tools and media software. LibreOffice provides Microsoft-compatible office tools, while applications such as Steam, Discord and OBS Studio are available for gaming, communication and recording. The availability of these programs does not mean every one is included in the default desktop.
App Center provides a graphical place to manage applications, including Debian packages. Ubuntu also draws software from its package repositories and the Snap Store. These are distinct distribution systems: Ubuntu’s repositories distribute Debian packages, while snaps use a packaging system with automatic application updates. A program’s publisher and available package determine how it is supplied, so the same application is not necessarily offered in every format.
Developer tools
Ubuntu can serve as the machine where source code is edited, built and run. Its software repositories provide language toolchains and compilers, with support for languages including Python, Rust, Go and PHP. Developers can combine these with an editor or an IDE such as Visual Studio Code or IntelliJ.
The Linux environment also connects local development to testing and deployment. An application destined for an Ubuntu server can be developed on an Ubuntu workstation using the same operating-system family. That provides a common platform for the work, although individual libraries and tools still depend on the chosen release and project configuration.
Data science and machine learning are another use of the workstation. Ubuntu supports frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, and its repositories provide NVIDIA CUDA and AMD ROCm for appropriate GPU workloads.
Release tracks
Ubuntu offers long-term support releases and shorter-lived interim releases. An LTS release receives five years of free security and maintenance updates. Interim releases receive nine months and bring newer operating-system components on a more frequent schedule.
A workstation built around a settled set of applications can stay with the LTS track, while an interim release offers a shorter route to newer kernels, libraries and desktop changes.
Ubuntu Pro
Ubuntu Pro adds extended security coverage and management services to the free operating system. Its expanded package coverage includes software in the Ubuntu Universe repository, extending maintenance beyond the standard support arrangement. Organizations can also use associated management tools and choose support services for their Ubuntu machines.
The subscription is free for personal use on up to five machines, with commercial offerings and optional support tiers available separately. Ubuntu itself remains free to use without purchasing Pro.
