Debian13.7
A dependable foundation that takes its time.
What is Debian?
Debian Stable favors well-tested packages and predictable behavior. It is a strong fit for servers, workstations, and people who value a quiet update cycle. Multiple desktops are available during installation. For very recent hardware, check firmware and kernel requirements before installing.
Who is Debian for?
Debian fits best for servers, older hardware, everyday use and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- Top pick: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- Top pick: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #2 of 13: best Linux distros for servers
- #3 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
- #3 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Conservative and predictable updates
- Wide architecture and desktop choice
- Large package archive
Cons
- Stable packages may lag upstream releases
- Some hardware needs additional firmware
Debian system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 2 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Debian is available for x86_64, aarch64, ppc64el, s390x. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Debian versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debian 13 Trixie | Aug 9, 2025 | 13.7 | Jun 30, 2030 | Supported |
| Debian 12 Bookworm | Jun 10, 2023 | 12.15 | Jun 30, 2028 | Supported |
| Debian 11 Bullseye | Aug 14, 2021 | 11.11 | Aug 31, 2026 | Ended |
| Debian 10 Buster | Jul 6, 2019 | 10.13 | Jun 30, 2024 | Ended |
| Debian 9 Stretch | Jun 17, 2017 | 9.13 | Jul 1, 2022 | Ended |
| Debian 8 Jessie | Apr 25, 2015 | 8.11 | Jun 30, 2020 | Ended |
| Debian 7 Wheezy | May 4, 2013 | 7.11 | May 31, 2018 | Ended |
| Debian 6 Squeeze | Feb 6, 2011 | 6.0.10 | Feb 29, 2016 | Ended |
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
What does Debian look like?
Debian 13 “Trixie” with its default GNOME 48 desktop looks close to upstream GNOME. There is no dock on the desktop: a black top bar holds the workspace indicator, clock and quick settings, and after login you land in the Activities overview, where a dash at the bottom holds Firefox ESR, Evolution, Files, Software, Text Editor, Calculator and Help. The blue Ceratopsian artwork fills the background.
Try Debian before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Debian with…
Best Debian alternatives
Debian: common questions
What is Debian based on?
Debian is an independent distribution; it is not derived from another Linux distribution. It uses APT for software and systemd as its init system.
What is the latest version of Debian?
The latest Debian release is 13.7 (“Trixie”), released Sep 12, 2026, according to endoflife.date.
How long is Debian 13 supported?
Debian 13 is listed as supported until Jun 30, 2030.
Is Debian good for beginners?
It is manageable if you are comfortable troubleshooting and occasionally using a terminal. Complete beginners may prefer Linux Mint or Ubuntu first.
How much RAM does Debian need?
We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64, aarch64, ppc64el, s390x.
What desktop does Debian use?
Debian offers GNOME, KDE Plasma, Xfce, more.
Is Debian a rolling release?
No. Debian uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Debian free?
Yes, Debian is free to download and use.