Choosing the ideal Linux distribution for your needs can be challenging due to the hundreds of options available.
For example, some Linux distributions are designed with beginners in mind, while others are built for advanced users. Also, some specialized Linux distributions are built for particular purposes.
With this in mind, this article will discuss the Linux distributions that are most suitable for a user-friendly and lightweight. We will include our top three recommendations for each category.
The best Linux distributions for a virtual private server (VPS)
In this section, we will explore the three best Linux distributions for a .
1.
Ubuntu statistics:
- Punctuation: 8.5/10
- Main features: computing at scale, compatibility with various programs and architectures, and open source.
Server is possibly the most popular Linux distro thanks to its great flexibility, scalability, and security in enterprise data centers. The latest version of Ubuntu Server runs on all major architectures including ARM, x86, Power, s390x, and RISC-V. It works through a command line interface (CLI).
Furthermore, this Linux distribution supports a compute-at-scale model and provides the necessary tools to manage entire clusters. Due to its open source nature, you can add up to 100 nodes to an Ubuntu server for free. It comes with built-in software like Apache Hadoop, Inktank Ceph, and 10gen MongoDB.
However, its free version does not include extended security measures, certificate compliance, and 24/7 technical support. If you have any questions or run into any issues, you’ll need to search the community channels for answers.
Alternatively, opt for one of their Ubuntu Advantage plans – Essential, standardeither Advanced that start in $75 per server per year.
two.
RHEL Statistics:
- Punctuation: 8.3/10
- Main features: Red Hat software integration, ten years of long-term support, and kernel patches without rebooting.
One of the best Linux distributions available, RHEL is a powerful, stable and secure distribution developed by Red Hat based on Fedora. It is available on cloud and IoT platforms and can handle big data, visualization, and data containers.
This Linux distro comes with the integration of Red Hat software management, automation, middleware, and visualization tools. In addition, it guarantees support services for ten years. During this period, users will get updates with feature enhancements, bug fixes, and kernel and security patches without rebooting the system, which will be beneficial for VPS users.
Additionally, RHEL supports multiple architectures including x86, ARM64, Power, IBM Z, and s390x. It supports all major hardware platforms and thousands of commercial and custom software pieces.
Also, RHEL has native development and deployment tools. It even provides the infrastructure and instruments to deliver container images. RHEL comes with robust security, including build flags, auditing, and crypto policies.
However, users have to pay a subscription fee from $349 a year to get these features. If you are looking for a dedicated support team, RHEL offers plans standard Y Premiumfrom $799 a year.
3.
Rocky Linux Stats:
- Punctuation: 8.2/10
- Main features: 100% compatibility with RHEL, for companies and easy migration.
Rocky Linux is considered to be the replacement for CentOS and one of the best Linux distributions for a VPS. As it is intended to be a downstream distribution of RHEL, it is fully compatible with a large amount of Red Hat software.
In addition, Rocky Linux is famous for its enterprise-ready system, rock-solid stability with regular updates, and ten-year support. It is open source software available on both x86_64 and ARM64 architectures.
As a community supported distribution, this Linux distro encourages users to share their ideas and suggestions about the software development process. Additionally, Rocky Linux provides access to an official CIQ support team that is involved in expanding the distro.
Rocky Linux provides an easy-to-use migration script that will make it easy to switch to the distribution. When a machine runs the migration script, it will switch all repositories from the previous OS to Rocky Linux. Packages will be installed automatically and upgraded or downgraded as needed, along with changes to the OS brand.
However, the migration script only works on CentOS Stream, CentOS Linux, Alma Linux, RHEL, and Oracle Linux systems. Users of other operating systems must install the software manually.
Easiest Linux distributions to use
This list of Linux distributions includes the most user-friendly distributions selected by our experts.
1.
Linux Mint Statistics:
- Punctuation: 8.7/10
- Main features: a comfortable user interface, an interactive design and a dual and multiple boot environment.
Linux Mint is built on top of the Linux kernel with the GNU toolchain and is based on the Ubuntu and Debian projects. Its goal is to be a modern and efficient operating system so that any computer user can carry out their daily tasks.
It has a comfortable user interface and interactive design, which makes it a good choice for new Linux users.
Also, Linux Mint is an open source distribution that supports both x86 and x64 platforms. It is also designed to work with other operating systems, such as macOS and Windows. This means that users can configure it in a multi-boot or dual-boot environment during installation.
Linux Mint comes in three different versions for different preferences. Each presents a different desktop environment:
- Cinnamon: the most innovative environment including a full-featured desktop.
- MATE: compatible with a variety of hardware specifications.
- Xfce: the lightest and most stable desktop environment.
However, Linux Mint requires a capable machine for it to run smoothly. Its minimum system requirements include 4GB ram, 100GB of disk space and a screen resolution of 1024×768.
two.
Elementary OS Statistics:
- Punctuation: 8.5/10
- Main features: a homemade desktop environment, interface features, and a pay-what-you-can mode.
Known for its simple yet powerful user interface powered by Pantheon, Elementary OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. It strives to be a capable and ethical replacement for Windows and macOS.
Elementary OS offers these notable interface features:
- Multitasking view: the workspace organizes work by tasks. It will display all open windows and workspaces so users can switch between them.
- Picture-in-picture: keeps tabs on one side of the screen while users work on another.
- Do not disturb: this option disables all notifications to help users focus.
This distro incorporates the pay-what-you-can payment model. This means that you can download it for free or donate any amount of money to the developers.
However, this Linux distro has limited environment flexibility as you cannot customize it to your preferences. For example, you can’t change the appearance of the desktop without installing a third-party app like Elementary Tweaks or Pantheon Tweaks.
3.
Zorin OS Statistics:
- Punctuation: 8/10
- Main features: Zorin Connect, popular desktop options and Windows support.
Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution with GNOME 3 and Avant Window Navigator as the default desktop environment. It comes bundled with Wine and PlayOnLinux applications that allow users to run Windows programs.
It is the best Linux distro for new users as they don’t need to learn anything new to get started – it comes with a familiar interface. The available design environments are derived from popular operating systems, such as Windows and macOS.
Another cool feature available from this Linux distro is Zorin Connect. It is an integrated tool that merges the functionality between your machine and an Android device.
Zorin OS comes in four editions with different features:
- Zorin Core: the free version includes the LibreOffice suite, advanced desktop options, Zorin Connect, and standard layouts.
- Zorin Education: supports educational apps to facilitate self-paced learning.
- Zorin Lite: the best option for old and low-end machines. It has a lightweight desktop, the LibreOffice suite, and standard layout options. Plus, it’s free.
- ZorinPro: the paid version comes with advanced features like premium desktop layouts, installation support, and enterprise-grade apps.
The free edition does not come with access to the most distinctive features like premium desktop layouts. Therefore, you will have to pay for the version Pro from $39 per license to experience everything this Linux distro has to offer.
Lighter Linux distributions
Finally, let’s review the three lightest Linux distros on the market.
1.
Lubuntu statistics:
- Punctuation: 8.5/10
- Main features: energy efficient, fast and compatible with Ubuntu software and repositories.
Lubuntu is an open source Linux distribution based on Ubuntu that aims to be fast and light. It is available on 32 and 64 bit platforms.
Although the developers no longer reveal the exact minimum hardware requirements on the official website, Lubuntu is still considered the best Linux distribution for older computers. It is recommended to have a minimum of 256MB of RAM and 8GB of available disk space to be able to run the basic Lubuntu desktop environment.
Despite its energy efficiency, Lubuntu is a powerful Linux distro as it is based on the latest version of Ubuntu. As a result, it is highly compatible with Ubuntu software and repositories. This allows users to access thousands of applications and packages available through the Lubuntu Software Center.
The system comes with a number of lightweight applications pre-installed, such as Trojita and Skanlite. Lubuntu uses lightweight desktop environments like LXDE and LXQt, which help minimize resource usage.
One thing to keep in mind before using Lubuntu is that it has a simple and straightforward system interface with a low screen refresh rate. Secondly,…
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