Debian vs Ubuntu: Everything You Need to Know to Choose

Ever wondered how many Linux distributions there are? The answer is ten with Debian and Ubuntu being the commonest of them. When it comes to Debian vs Ubuntu, they are remarkably similar yet poles apart. That makes it difficult for novice Linux customers to differentiate the two and choose the right option. While many aspects of these strong configurations may look alike, if not identical, there are some significant discrepancies between them. Let’s dive into these two Linux distributions for a better understanding.

Difference Between Debian and Ubuntu

What is Debian?

The Debian Initiative is a group of people that joined forces to produce a free and unrestricted operating system (OS). Debian is the name of the OS that was developed.

An OS is a collection of fundamental applications and tools that allow your device to function. The Kernel is the heart of the operating system. The kernel is the most essential program on the desktop, doing all basic maintenance and allowing other processes to run. Currently, Debian computers utilize either the Free BSD kernel or the Linux kernel.

The Debian project offers around 59k software packages and covers a wide variety of PCs with each version covering a broader range of system configurations. It aims to create an equilibrium between cutting-edge innovation and long-term stability.

Features of Debian

Lots of users use a rendition of Linux that’s built on Debian. Ever wondered about installing Debian itself? Why would you want to install Debian from the base? Well, we’ve come up with some enthralling features of Debian that would make you install Debian from scratch.

1. Stability and dependability

The reliability of Debian is well-known. Since the version usually includes older variants of software, you may be executing code that was released decades ago. However, this implies that you are utilizing software, which has been thoroughly tested. Thus, it has a better success rate. You may access your PC regularly without the fear of being startled. Simply put, there’s no need for Debian testing, as its credentials are already established.

2. Reliable for servers

Debian can fuel one’s server, thanks to its robust software and extensive release cycles. One doesn’t need to look for a different variant of Debian. You can simply choose not to deploy a desktop ecosystem during installation. Instead, feel free to acquire server-related utilities. This is perhaps the biggest difference between Debian vs Ubuntu.

3. Supporting PC platforms

Debian has installers for a variety of platforms. It can be launched on both 32-bit and 64-bit intel machines. There is additional support for 64-bit Power PC devices. Debian also makes it feasible for Linux to function on ARM or MIPS processors.

4. Software support

The DEB format, developed by Debian, is presently the most widely used program structure in the Linux community. While not all DEBs that function on Ubuntu also function on Debian, there is a significant possibility that DEBs for both are available. Debian contains some of the most specialized software repositories available. Except for updated software, there is a good likelihood the open-source application you are searching for is already available. That’s a big difference between Debian vs Ubuntu servers.

5. Desktop agnostic

Debian has no recommended desktop environment. There is a cap on the range of live CDs accessible. Debian does not provide any additional assistance or polishing to these desktops other than to the numerous other desktop ecosystems present in the repository.

Advantages of Debian

Let us narrow down some of the advantages of using Debian to get a better idea of Ubuntu vs Debian

• Is a comprehensive installer
• Has multiple hardware architectures
• Makes the transition between technologies smooth
• Has the largest number of installed packages
• Is stable and secure

Disadvantages of Debian

Nothing is perfect, not even Debian. Here are some drawbacks of Debian

• The software is not up to date
• It is not that user-friendly. New users will find it hard to acknowledge it
• It is conservative and has few features

What is Ubuntu?

 A brainchild of Canonical Company Limited, Ubuntu is a member of the Linux OS family. It’s available for personal and professional use and comes at zero cost. Ubuntu PC was the first version to be released. Later variants were designed for Server and Core, which are utilized in IoT and Robotics.

The Ubuntu society is based on the Ubuntu Manifesto, which states:

• Software must be freely available
• Software applications should be accessible to individuals in their native language, irrespective of disorders
• Individuals should be able to customize and modify the software the way they want

From the Linux kernel version 5.4 to GNOME 3.28, Ubuntu provides lots of types of software that cover everything, including:

• Word processors and spreadsheets
• Web access
• Internet server software
• Email servers
• Development tools and applications
• A fine variety of games

Features of Ubuntu

Is Ubuntu Debian? Despite the overlap, the answer is no. Here’re a few features that make Ubuntu stand apart.

1. Office software

Ubuntu has a program called LibreOffice that allows us to generate office files, worksheets, and presentations. LibreOffice is an open concept suite compatible with MSOffice. That means we can simply and rapidly open and alter files like Word docs, PowerPoint presentations, and Excel sheets, as well as exchange them with others. Google Docs may also be accessed from the computer.

2. Open source OS

During the innovation phase at Ubuntu, the code is publicly shared. As a developer, hardware designer, or Integrator, you can start creating Ubuntu apps and systems right away because they are open about their plans for future releases.

3. Web Browsing

Ubuntu and Firefox, both recognized for their security and agility, make surfing the web delightful. Ubuntu now offers Chrome as well as other browsers, which can be installed through the Ubuntu Software Center.

4. Gaming

There are a variety of games in Ubuntu, ranging from Sudoku to first-person shooters to keep you entertained. Even games from the Unity and Steam ecosystems are also readily available. One can select from critically renowned games, such as Dota 2 and Counter-strike: Global offensive. When it comes to Debian vs Ubuntu, Ubuntu has an edge here.

5. No antivirus

Security measures in the Windows platform are quite conflicting. Most of the same businesses that produce Windows operating systems also profit handsomely from hogging products that protect Windows apps against security flaws. Even without the inclusion of any overpriced antivirus scanners, Ubuntu is one of the safest options out there. However, it is not 100 percent malware-free.

6. Hardware auto-configuration

Hardware auto-configuration is just another characteristic of Ubuntu Debian. The majority of device drivers come already pre-installed. Anyone who has installed a standard version of Windows knows how time-consuming it is to search for drivers after the OS has been installed.

7. Software repositories

Installing a variety of programs from the repository in a few taps is a huge benefit with Ubuntu. Besides being free and more secure than .exe files acquired from unknown sources, installing programs from a centralized location is efficient.

8. Multiple desktops

Virtual desktops are like split web surfing. We don’t realize how useful they are until we use them. There are a variety of 3rd party applications for accomplishing the same function on Windows, but only a handful of them work well with Vista and above.

Advantages of Ubuntu

Ubuntu comes with some stunning benefits, such as:

• As secure as it gets.
• The free and open-source OS
• Can run without installing
• Totally customizable
• A comprehensive OS for desktops
• Support Window tiling
• Features Ubuntu version command

Disadvantages of Ubuntu

• Has compatibility discomfort with software apps and tools.
• Various other Linux OS is much better than Ubuntu.
• Commercialization issues with open-source software.
• Loaded with boring and obsolete gaming titles.

Debian vs Ubuntu: Key Points to be Remember

Now that we’ve gone through Debian and Ubuntu in-depth, let’s discuss how Debian vs Ubuntu differ from one another.

• A major difference between the two is how they are unleashed into the market. Debian’s releases are classified as Stable, Testing, or Unstable. LTS and regular releases are offered for Ubuntu.
• Debian’s installer is quite messy since it has a large number of options, which makes it difficult for the user. Ubuntu, on the other hand, is more user-friendly as the installer is more streamlined.
• Ubuntu has Personal Package Archives (PPAs), while Debian doesn’t.
• Ubuntu has corporate backing as it is fully controlled by Canonical Corp. Debian, on the other hand, is community-based and is controlled by a board of internally elected developers who act as volunteers.
• In terms of the intended user base, Ubuntu is more stable for novices, whilst Debian is a brilliant alternative for specialists.

Debian vs Ubuntu: Head to Head Comparison

Let us summarize the differences in the form of a table.

Conclusion

Debian and Ubuntu are both excellent Linux distributions, vastly popular at that. Several people prefer Debian to Ubuntu, and likewise. Ubuntu is more suited for novices, whereas Debian is better suited for tech geeks. When it comes to Debian vs Ubuntu, we propose that you install both and decide which meets your needs.

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