Understanding Ubuntu Versions: Uses, Advantages, and Disadvantages Explained
Why Ubuntu Versions Matter
If you’ve ever tried to download Ubuntu, you probably noticed something confusing: there are many versions. Some are called LTS, others are not. Some are recommended for servers, others for desktops. And every six months, a new version appears.
So which one should you choose?
Understanding Ubuntu versions is important because each version is designed for a specific purpose. Choosing the wrong one can lead to unnecessary upgrades, compatibility issues, or instability—especially in production environments.
In this article, we’ll break down Ubuntu versions in a simple and relaxed way, explaining:
- How Ubuntu versions work
- What each type is used for
- Their advantages and disadvantages
- Which version fits your needs best
How Ubuntu Versioning Works
Ubuntu follows a time-based release system.
Each Ubuntu version is named using:
YY.MM
For example:
- Ubuntu 22.04
- Ubuntu 24.04
This means:
- YY = Year of release
- MM = Month of release
Ubuntu releases a new version every 6 months, in April (.04) and October (.10).
Two Main Types of Ubuntu Versions
Ubuntu versions fall into two major categories:
- LTS (Long Term Support)
- Interim (Short-Term Support)
Let’s look at each one.
Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support)
What Is Ubuntu LTS?
Ubuntu LTS versions are released every 2 years and are supported for:
- 5 years on Desktop and Server
- Optional extended support for enterprises
Popular Ubuntu LTS versions include:
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Ubuntu 22.04 LTS
- Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
Uses of Ubuntu LTS
Ubuntu LTS is commonly used for:
- Production servers
- Enterprise systems
- Long-term desktop installations
- Cloud infrastructure
If stability matters, LTS is usually the right choice.
Advantages of Ubuntu LTS
✅ Long support lifecycle
You don’t need to upgrade frequently.
✅ High stability
Packages are well-tested and rarely introduce breaking changes.
✅ Enterprise and cloud friendly
Most cloud providers default to Ubuntu LTS.
✅ Strong community and vendor support
Documentation is abundant and reliable.
Disadvantages of Ubuntu LTS
❌ Older software versions
You may not get the latest features immediately.
❌ Slower innovation
New desktop features arrive later compared to interim releases.
Ubuntu Interim (Non-LTS) Versions
What Are Interim Versions?
Interim versions are released every 6 months and supported for:
- 9 months only
Examples:
- Ubuntu 23.10
- Ubuntu 24.10
Uses of Ubuntu Interim Versions
Interim versions are best for:
- Enthusiasts
- Developers who want new features
- Testing new hardware support
- Previewing upcoming LTS changes
Advantages of Interim Versions
✅ Latest software packages
New kernels, drivers, and desktop environments.
✅ Better hardware support
Especially useful for brand-new laptops.
✅ Early access to features
You get to try what’s coming next.
Disadvantages of Interim Versions
❌ Short support period
You must upgrade frequently.
❌ Less stable
Not ideal for production servers.
❌ Higher maintenance effort
Frequent updates and migrations.
Ubuntu Desktop Versions Explained
Ubuntu Desktop LTS
Best for:
- Workstations
- Office use
- Students
- Developers who want stability
Pros:
- Stable desktop environment
- Predictable updates
Cons:
- Slower access to new UI features
Ubuntu Desktop Interim
Best for:
- Power users
- Hardware testers
- Linux enthusiasts
Pros:
- Latest GNOME versions
- New visual improvements
Cons:
- Frequent upgrades required
Ubuntu Server Versions Explained
Ubuntu Server LTS
This is the default choice for servers.
Best for:
- Web servers
- Databases
- Cloud workloads
- Containers and Kubernetes
Pros:
- Long-term security updates
- Stable kernel and libraries
- Minimal changes over time
Cons:
- Older packages (by design)
Ubuntu Server Interim
Rarely used in production.
Best for:
- Testing new server features
- Lab environments
- Development testing
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-running systems
Ubuntu Flavors and Their Versions
Ubuntu also comes in official flavors, such as:
- Kubuntu
- Xubuntu
- Lubuntu
- Ubuntu MATE
All flavors follow the same versioning rules:
- LTS and interim releases
- Same support timeline
Advantages of Ubuntu Flavors
✅ Optimized for different hardware
✅ Different desktop experiences
Disadvantages
❌ Smaller communities
❌ Less enterprise focus
Ubuntu Version Comparison Table (Conceptual)
| Version Type | Support | Stability | Software Freshness | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LTS | 5 Years | Very High | Moderate | Servers, Production |
| Interim | 9 Months | Medium | Very High | Testing, New Hardware |
Which Ubuntu Version Should You Choose?
Choose Ubuntu LTS If You:
- Run production servers
- Want long-term reliability
- Don’t want frequent upgrades
- Use cloud platforms
Choose Ubuntu Interim If You:
- Love new features
- Use brand-new hardware
- Enjoy experimenting
- Don’t mind upgrading often
Common Mistakes When Choosing Ubuntu Versions
❌ Using interim versions on production servers
❌ Skipping LTS upgrades for too long
❌ Choosing latest version just because it’s “new”
Stability often matters more than novelty.
Ubuntu Versions in Real-World Scenarios
- Home Server → Ubuntu Server LTS
- Company Infrastructure → Ubuntu LTS
- Developer Laptop → LTS or latest interim
- Testing Lab → Interim versions
The Ubuntu Upgrade Path
Ubuntu supports in-place upgrades, but best practice is:
- LTS → LTS upgrades
- Avoid interim upgrades on servers
This reduces risk and downtime.
The Future of Ubuntu Versions
Ubuntu continues refining:
- Release stability
- Hardware compatibility
- Cloud and container support
LTS remains the backbone, while interim releases drive innovation.
Ubuntu Versions Serve Different Needs
Ubuntu versions are not about better or worse—they are about purpose.
- LTS versions prioritize stability and longevity
- Interim versions prioritize innovation and freshness
Understanding these differences helps you choose the right Ubuntu version and avoid unnecessary headaches.
If you want a dependable system that just works, Ubuntu LTS is hard to beat. If you want to explore the future of Linux, interim versions are a fun playground.
