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The first important point we notice when comparing Ubuntu and Debian is that Debian is the primary Linux distribution, but Ubuntu is a Debian-based distribution. These two distributions’ stability, flexibility, security, and efficiency are among the reasons for their popularity. Still, specific differences make it easier to make a decision and choose.

Ubuntu and Debian are two wonderful Linux distributions, each with its strengths. Your preferences and expectations can make a choice easier for you.

So let’s examine the differences between these two operating systems and tackle the most significant challenge that a user faces when entering the Linux world:

Debian distribution

Debian was released for the first time in 1993. Despite its long history, it continues to have a strong presence in the Linux market, which is why it has become the most stable Linux distribution.

This distribution comprises many software packages containing executable files, scripts, documents, and configuration information. A management department is responsible for updating the packages, tracking bug reports, and other system problems. Such management facilities allow system problems to be found and solved quickly.

The release of the Debian distribution introduced many features to the Linux community, the most important of which is the package management system for easy program installation and removal.

Support for various hardware architectures, high security, stability, comprehensive software repositories, exclusivity, and timely upgrading of essential security and operational features are among the most important strengths of this excellent operating system.

To learn more about the Debian distribution, read “What is the Debian operating system?”

Ubuntu distribution

The Ubuntu distribution is built on the architecture and infrastructure of Debian, which has become the most popular and widely used Linux distribution in the world in the last ten years by strengthening its performance in various fields such as user-friendliness, security, and providing multiple drivers and firmware.

Ubuntu’s simple and attractive user interface makes for an easier installation process and stronger support for various media. Overall, this operating system’s modern approach has made more than 40 million users worldwide prefer this distribution for their various purposes.

Ubuntu has several distributions, all of which can run on virtual machines, servers, or any other system.

The most important positive features of this wonderful operating system are that it is free and open source, has a simple and attractive user interface, is highly secure against malware attacks, has strong social support, supports the latest hardware and software, and offers high customization.

To learn more about this Linux distribution, you can read the article “What is Ubuntu?” and read the

Comparison of Ubuntu and Debian distributions from different aspects

Choosing the proper distribution for your desktop or server is the most crucial decision you have to make, and given that Ubuntu and Debian are the most popular Linux distributions, examining the differences and similarities between these two distributions can make your decision easier. Do:

Release type

One of the most apparent differences between these two distributions is their distribution model. Debian comes in three versions: stable, unstable, and experimental. On the other hand, Ubuntu has two versions, LTS and regular.

Each of these versions has its features:

Debian

Stable – As the original and updated version of Debian, it has been supported for five years, which has been supported for three years by the Debian security team and for two years by the Debian LTS team. Of course, Debian’s security team continues to provide support for one year after the release of the next version. In general, the release cycle of Debian’s stable version is not very regular or stable. This five-year plan assumes that a new version is distributed every two years. It is calculated. Although this version may not have the latest software and features, the stable version is the best option for stability.

Unstable – is being tested as an unstable version, and developers use this version to test and run Debian code. Unstable versions of Debian are the latest software packages and features that have not yet been thoroughly tested. So, if you don’t want to analyze and check the code of this distribution, it is better not to use this version because the potential for failure is high.

Experimental – The experimental version is more stable than the unstable version. Users who like to test the latest features and packages of the new Debian version can use this version. Still, it is better to know that this version does not have permanent security support. The trial version is used to prepare the next stable version and has the status of a regular distribution like OpenSUSE Tumbleweed.

Ubuntu

LT—This version is released every two years and has been supported by the Ubuntu team for five years. It is more stable than the regular version. Of course, it is better to point out that users of the LTS version of Ubuntu can join ESM and benefit from five years of additional security support. This version can be installed on all kinds of servers and desktops.

– This version is released every six months and is supported for nine months. It has the latest software packages, features, and applications, and is mainly designed for desktops. When using the regular version, you must upgrade your system to the next version when the current version’s life cycle ends.

Platforms supported by Ubuntu and Debian.

Considering its age, Debian supports more platforms. In this way, it is known as the universal operating system when compared to Ubuntu.

Ubuntu can be installed on 64-bit x86 and ARM platforms and does not provide a 32-bit ISO installation file. On the other hand, besides supporting 32-bit and 64-bit architecture, Debian also supports different platforms.

Performance and stability

The answer to the question about the performance difference between Ubuntu and Debian is very simple. Both distros have great performance, and if you consider that, you’ll be happy working with either of them.

However, Debian’s superior performance is a little more than Ubuntu’s because this distribution’s implementation and installation process is lightweight, and the lack of additional packages and programs increases its speed. On the other hand, additional default programs and features negatively affect Ubuntu’s performance.

Debian is still a little ahead in terms of stability because it has limited features that increase its power and stability. In such a way, the possibility of the system’s screen becoming damaged or blue is minimized, and the system mostly continues to work without any delays or unexpected behavior. Most developers still prefer this distribution for hosting their websites and applications because of its high stability.

On the other hand, Ubuntu’s release cycle is fairly regular, and releases are mostly stable. However, sometimes, some problems lower the Ubuntu stability percentage a little (not a lot). Therefore, Ubuntu is suitable for some personal use and situations that will not suffer much in case of system failure.

Package management system – software

The package management system of Ubuntu and Debian distributions is the same, and most software suitable for both is available as packages, but of course. Still, there are key differences in this field.

The stable version of Debian is more strict. Like Federova, this distribution’s repositories contain only free and open-source software, and installing paid software requires a series of manual settings and configurations. Of course, users who use hardware for special purposes and need dedicated drivers have a little problem with this distribution. Adding dedicated software repositories to the system is the last solution Debian users can use to solve this problem.

With Debian, you cannot use the latest software or advanced technology because it has a special framework that does not go beyond it.

However, Ubuntu’s developers are more open-minded about the framework and proprietary software, and this distribution’s repositories include packages related to proprietary software. Thus, the support of the most comprehensive repositories and drivers has improved the system’s hardware performance.

Also, Ubuntu has personal package archives, commonly known as PPAs. These archives make it easier to install packages that are not available in the official Ubuntu repositories.

Also, Ubuntu has a more comprehensive software library. LibreOffice, GIMP, Audacity, VLC Player, Steam, Chrome, and Firefox, which are the most important of them, have more options to install. On the other hand, although most of the software is compatible with Debian, the Debian software library is generally more limited.

The installation process in Ubuntu and Debian

To install packages and software, Debian uses the Debian Installer, which is based on nCurses, and Ubuntu uses Ubiquity.

Both installers offer a graphical interface, but the Debian installer has more options than Ubuntu. Perhaps these options are an advantage for ordinary or expert users, but they are problematic for most beginner users. Overall, this is not too much of a concern, as you can easily find guidance on using these installers.

Ubuntu is suitable for desktops and servers. The installation process is simpler, faster, and suitable for beginners. Ubuntu has installed all the required software by default, and with the dual boot feature, it can detect other operating systems on the disk.

In summary, the Ubuntu installer is more user-friendly and has a complete graphical interface than the Debian installer, but the Debian installer also offers more options.

Desktop environment

When it comes to the desktop environment, when comparing Ubuntu and Debian, we must say that Debian has more options for providing a graphical interface, which are Xfce, KDE, MATE, LXDE, LXQt, and Standard (without a graphical interface). Of course, it is better to know that Debian does not have a default desktop environment, and the installer will ask you to choose your preferred interface during the installation process.

In contrast, instead of offering different desktop environments for one distribution, Ubuntu has released a new distribution using each environment, but Ubuntu uses the GNOME desktop environment by default.

Different Ubuntu distributions with different desktop environments:

• Ubuntu (GNOME)
• Kubuntu (KDE)
• Xubuntu (Xfce)
• Lubunto (LXQt)
• Ubuntu MATE (MATE)
• Ubuntu Budgie

A few more:

Hardware compatibility – Ubuntu can work with most old and new hardware, and the developers of this distribution have tried their best to make it compatible with the latest hardware. This means you can start working with Ubuntu efficiently without requiring rare drivers. Of course, Debian is also trying to improve hardware compatibility, and the latest version of Debian or Bullseye (at the time of writing this article) has high safety and stability. Better hardware support with more advanced performance has made it more competitive. Did not lag behind

Server use

Debian server versions are preferred over Ubuntu because of Debian’s higher security and stability. On the other hand, Ubuntu has much ready-packaged software suitable for specific applications. Both distros work flawlessly and are ideal for applying patches or updates.

Purpose

Ubuntu is a general-purpose and configuration-free distribution suitable for any user, such as software developers, gamers, designers, and general users. On the other hand, Debian needs a series of configurations to adapt to specific users. Simply put, Debian requires extra steps to do things that would be done relatively faster using Ubuntu.

Which one should we choose between the Ubuntu and Debian distributions?

It is safe to say that Ubuntu and Debian are the leading Linux distributions, and they have reached this rank with their excellent performance and fantastic features.
Some essential and practical conclusions in choosing the right distribution:

• Debian is more stable than Ubuntu, and the reason for that is the use of advanced and additional features.
• Debian requires fewer resources and is suitable for all devices, including old and new ones. Ubuntu is more appropriate for modern computers.
• Ubuntu offers new and advanced features that require more power.
• The user interface of Ubuntu is more attractive and wealthy, and has increased its user-friendliness.
• With Ubuntu, access to proprietary software is easier.

Overall, it would help if you chose the proper distribution based on your expertise, application, and needs.

• If you are a beginner and need a powerful graphical interface to work with various operating system features, Ubuntu is a better option.
• If the security and stability of the server or system are critical to you, choose Debian.
• Ubuntu is better if you want to install all the software without any hassle or additional configuration.
• If you, as an expert user, like to fully control the operating system settings, then you prefer Debian.

So if you ask questions based on your preferences and needs and answer them, you can easily choose a suitable distribution because Ubuntu and Debian are both excellent and, in many ways, more or less similar. Act. This similarity is a bonus: the guides, solutions, and explanations for one often work for the other, and the learning resources for each expand. This is the beauty of Linux with any of these two distributions; you can take complete control of your system.

Are you choosing the proper distribution for a virtual server – Ubuntu or Debian?

The virtual server is no exception to this rule, and choosing a suitable distribution for the Linux virtual server depends on your preferences and expertise. The installation process and easy use are the advantages of the Ubuntu distribution, and control and stability are more of the strengths of the Debian distribution. The reviews we’ve done in the previous sections also apply to virtual servers, so if you’ve chosen a reputable source, we recommend you look at our Linux virtual server purchase page.

When you see the excellent features of each plan and the affordable price, you will put aside your worries. Instead of doubting the cost and quality of the virtual server, you will focus on your path and goal.

Conclusion

Ubuntu and Debian are two leading Linux distributions that have similarities and differences, and a detailed examination of the features of each of them will make the choice easier for you. Choosing the correct distribution depends on your expectations. Regarding stability and complete control, Debian comes a step ahead. Regarding modern and advanced features and software, Ubuntu takes a step ahead. So, check the purpose of your use from different aspects and make an ideal choice based on the presented criteria.