Ubuntu26.04.1
Broad support, from your laptop to your server.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu provides a widely documented desktop and server platform. Long-term support releases prioritize a predictable maintenance horizon. A large ecosystem of guides and vendor support makes it a practical starting point, especially when an application explicitly targets Ubuntu.
Who is Ubuntu for?
Ubuntu fits best for everyday use, development and servers. Where it ranks in our lists:
- Top pick: best Linux distros for beginners
- Top pick: best Linux distros for programming and development
- Top pick: best Linux distros for servers
- #1 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Long-term support release options
- Extensive documentation and vendor support
- Desktop and server editions
Cons
- Snap is integrated into the default experience
- Newer application versions may require alternative sources
Ubuntu system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 4 GB of RAM. Ubuntu is available for x86_64, aarch64. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Ubuntu versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Resolute Raccoon | Apr 23, 2026 | 26.04.1 | May 29, 2031 | Supported |
| Ubuntu 25.10 Questing Quokka | Oct 9, 2025 | 25.10 | Jul 1, 2026 | Ended |
| Ubuntu 25.04 Plucky Puffin | Apr 17, 2025 | 25.04 | Jan 17, 2026 | Ended |
| Ubuntu 24.10 Oracular Oriole | Oct 10, 2024 | 24.10 | Jul 10, 2025 | Ended |
| Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Noble Numbat | Apr 25, 2024 | 24.04.5 | May 31, 2029 | Supported |
| Ubuntu 23.10 Mantic Minotaur | Oct 12, 2023 | 23.10 | Jul 12, 2024 | Ended |
| Ubuntu 23.04 Lunar Lobster | Apr 20, 2023 | 23.04 | Jan 20, 2024 | Ended |
| Ubuntu 22.04 LTS Jammy Jellyfish | Apr 21, 2022 | 22.04.5 | Jun 1, 2027 | Supported |
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
What does Ubuntu look like?
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS uses GNOME 50 with Canonical’s Yaru theme. A dark, opaque dock runs down the left edge with Firefox, Files, App Center and Help pinned, and the Ubuntu logo at the bottom opens the app grid. A black top bar shows workspaces on the left, the clock in the middle and quick settings on the right. The default style is light with orange accents and an orange-to-plum wallpaper.
Try Ubuntu 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.
Ubuntu news
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Ubuntu: common questions
What is Ubuntu based on?
Ubuntu is based on Debian. It uses APT · Snap for software and systemd as its init system.
What is the latest version of Ubuntu?
The latest Ubuntu release is 26.04.1 (“Resolute Raccoon”), released Aug 31, 2026, according to endoflife.date.
How long is Ubuntu 26.04 supported?
Ubuntu 26.04 is listed as supported until May 29, 2031. It is a long-term support release.
Is Ubuntu good for beginners?
Yes. Ubuntu is one of the more approachable distributions: long-term support release options.
How much RAM does Ubuntu need?
We suggest about 4 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.
What desktop does Ubuntu use?
Ubuntu offers GNOME.
Is Ubuntu a rolling release?
No. Ubuntu uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Ubuntu free?
Yes, Ubuntu is free to download and use.