Linux is the world’s most popular Operating System for the Internet’s web server. Packed with Apache, MySQL and PHP and these are referred to as LAMP configuration- a wide range of dissimilar Linux is in use. As there is a lot of Linux distribution it is hard to recommend a specific one because every distro is some way or the other different from other distros. Few are very similar to each other whereas few are unique compared to others.
Most web users would rarely notice a difference between the operating system because the OS works completely in the background. Only the administrators and IT agents could notice which Linux distros are in use.
Though there are lots of distribution, we have compiled a few of the best distros available right now but before that let’s show you the difference between Ubuntu and Debian
Let’s figure out the major difference between Debian and Ubuntu
To start with, I must say that Debian and Ubuntu are very similar and matches many characteristics. Both Ubuntu and Debian use the same package management system. Apart from these, there are a few Characteristics at which Debian is better than Ubuntu.
Debian has the best attitude when it comes to free softwares and firmware, but there are a few softwares available in Ubuntu but is not supported in Debian due to licensing restrictions. All the hardware that goes along with Ubuntu may not support when it comes to Debian.
Ubuntu supports a lot of packages that may not be available in official Ubuntu archives, why they developed a Personal Package Archives (PPA ) by which you can smoothly install packages which are absent in official archives. The strong point is with these PPA features you will be able to install an expansive range of softwares easily compared to Debian.
Debian comes with strong restrictions and also goes by a different release cycle comparing with Ubuntu. So you might say that these differences are what we know and can affect certain use cases which we will discuss later in this article.
Before that have a look at the point Debian VS Ubuntu
Debian
- Original
- Not favorable for Beginner
- Very Stable
- Supports free softwares only
- Unscheduled releases
- A stable release is supported for 3 years on a maximum Scale
- The desktop version comes with several Desktop environment options
- It is lightweight
- Has different distribution based on linux keernel
- More secure and safe
Ubuntu
- Based on Debian
- Especially recommended for Beginner
- Less stable (If compared to Debian)
- Uses both free and proprietary softwares
- Releases on specific dates
- LTS releases supports for 5 years max
- Ubuntu uses GNOME desktop environment by default
- Better hardware requirement
- Only one distribution based on Linux Kernel
- One of the most secured OS
Debian VS Ubuntu: For Laptop Use
If compared for laptop Ubuntu has better usability than Debian. On new laptops, you have to turn on non-free binaries because it lacks open source drivers. A few non-free binaries are available in Debian no-free repositories, whereas Ubuntu supports a wide variety of hardware
Linux comes with a big advantage with its customization which indicates that you can run both Debian and Ubuntu easily on your laptop with very little work.
So, whatever you choose it’s absolutely up to you. If you are planning for a new laptop and Ubuntu, you must buy a laptop that supports Ubuntu or if you are planning to go with Debian, you have to keep your eyes open while searching for Debian supported laptops.
Or you could go for detailed research on Google.
Debian VS Ubuntu: For Desktop users
Debian is much easier to use in the desktop than a laptop if you choose compatible hardware. If you are using an existing computer the chance of hardware support option is less, but if you customize your own computer becomes much easier.
Installation with Ubuntu is generally an easier job, but it completely depends on the desktop when it comes to Debian being installed. You are going to find it more difficult when it comes to graphic cards.
A small tip: You can go with AMD graphics if you want to use the open-source drivers and those who prefer Nvidia will get decent performance for any of its cards available.
Rolling down to the server usage
Debian VS Ubuntu: For Server Use
Debian doesn’t provide server download for specific customer base. It just offers the base installer. You should be very selective while choosing the best image for your CPU architecture.
When you have finished installing the base system, you can install any softwares you need and is supports. The server image is nothing but an essential install with basic server software and zero graphical interface.
Frequent usage for Debian in server environments is because of its prominence for stability. These are less likely to have bugs in it because they were analyzed and verified. And Ubuntu still remains a great choice for server softwares.
An extra tip for you guys on other distributions
Debian and Ubuntu VS Other distributions
There are many users who may be looking up to other distributions like Fedora, Slackware, and Arch, keeping apart Ubuntu and Debian. You can go with your choice with other distributions but before that try knowing all the advantages they offer and compatibility with your PC OR laptop.
It is because you are more likely to get a DEB package for both Ubuntu and Debian for plenty of softwares, but it is hard to get it for any other distributions like Arch Linux, Fedora or Gentoo.
In conclusion
We have discussed Debian vs Ubuntu: Best Linux Distro for Laptops, Desktops, and Servers in this article and have tried to enlighten you as far as we have gathered and deduced.
Linux kernel can be said to be the core part of Ubuntu and moreover, it contains similar architecture to communicate with your computer’s hardware. Ubuntu and Linux both follow the same standards but Ubuntu comes with a list of great features. Linux systems can be installed in different computer hardware, laptops, and even smartphones and on the other hand Ubuntu is a very strong graphical user interface.
Now you know almost half of the stuff related to Ubuntu and Debian and can completely take your call on whether to go for Ubuntu or Debian.
