What is Linux Mint?

What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is an open-source Linux Distribution based on Ubuntu and is one of the most popular Linux distros of all time. If you have used Linux for some time you must have heard about Mint, and for good reason. Linux Mint perhaps has one of the easiest and familiar familiar-looking desktops of all Linux distros, making it a go-to choice for anyone coming from Windows....

History of Linux Mint

Clement Lefebvre, commonly known by the nickname Clem, created Linux Mint back in 2006. Linux Mint version 1, code-named “Ada” was released to the general public and was based on Kubuntu. A few months into the project, it was re-based and started using Ubuntu. In its early days, Ubuntu dominated desktop Linux, and Linux Mint aimed to improve it, with a focus on modernity, elegance, and ease of use. From Linux Mint 4 to 9, the Mint team developed more software for their distribution, making it all the more popular. In 2011, the Gnome team transitioned to Gnome 3, thereby breaking many features Linux Mint was providing before. Mint Team learned from their mistake and separated themselves from Gnome and developed their desktop environment called Cinnamon for their users. In 2020, Linux Mint also became one of the first distributions to drop support for Ubuntu’s snap packages, reinstating their commitment to their community-first vision....

What are the Editions of Linux Mint?

There are 5 editions of Mint in total out of which 3 are flavors (that have a different desktop environment), one LMDE (that has a different Debian base), and an edge version for newer hardware....

Features of Linux Mint

Ease of Use: Linux Mint has a traditional Windows-like layout that makes it more approachable and understandable for everyone. Even those with no experience with Linux at all get started with Mint with ease. Reliability: Linux Mint has a conservative and stable release cycle. Most updates are well-tested before release making sure, that no updates should break the system. Open Source: Linux Mint is open source which means, it has better transparency and respects users’ privacy. You can also look and audit their source code by yourself if you so desire. Software Manager: The Software Manager in Linux Mint simplifies the process of installing, removing, and updating software. It offers an easy-to-navigate interface, categorized software listings, and user reviews to assist users in discovering and managing applications. Update Manager: The Update Manager ensures system stability and security by providing a straightforward way to manage system updates. Users can choose update policies, view available updates, and apply them with ease....

Advantages of Linux Mint

Security and Privacy: Unlike Windows and Mac OS, Linux Mint does not collect any kind of telemetry. It also generally has less malware developed for it due to its smaller user base. Free to Use: Unlike most operating systems Linux Mint is free to use and customize. It means that users do not have to spend anything, and still get a fully functional system for free. Software Availability: Another great thing about Mint is its wide software availability. It allows users to access the vast amount of software developed for Ubuntu and also supports Flatpaks by default. User-Friendly Interface: Linux Mint, especially with the Cinnamon desktop environment, provides an intuitive and familiar interface that is easy for users transitioning from other operating systems. The layout and design aim for simplicity and ease of use....

Disadvantages of Linux Mint

Old Packages: Since Mint is based on the LTS release of Ubuntu, it’s fairly slow to receive updates. This means that sometimes the packages for specific software might be multiple releases behind. Sub-optimal Hardware Support: Linux Mint does not ship with the latest kernel, making it unsuitable for those with a very recent GPU or WiFi card. Poor Wayland Support: Unlike most modern distros, Linux Mint still does not have good support for the newer Wayland protocol making it unsuitable for those expecting a good visual experience. Less Enterprise Focus: Linux Mint is designed with a focus on desktop users rather than enterprise environments. Users looking for an operating system with specific enterprise features or certifications might prefer alternatives designed with enterprise use in mind....

Hardware Requirements

1. Minimum Specifications:...

Conclusion

In conclusion, Linux Mint is a solid choice for everyone, whether you are a beginner, just starting your Linux journey or a seasoned professional with years of Linux experience. You can’t go wrong with mint. It’s extremely stable and infinitely customizable. And the best part is its huge and helpful community that will be there to help you along the way. So go on and give it a try, for most users, the cinnamon edition should be fine and for those with older hardware choose XFCE and you will be good to go. Overall, there is no doubt why Linux Mint is such a reputed distro, it does deliver everything you can ever want in a simple and easy-to-use package, for free....

Frequently Asked Questions on Linux Mint

Q 1. Whether Linux Mint free of cost to use?...