Linux: LTS or NON LTS?? That is the Question!! (2023)

Introduction

In this video I examine Linux Long Term Support vs. Non Long Term Support. Which one is better? Watch until the end to find out!!

Content

Welcome everybody to the sheryl technology channel.

This is your host chris.

Back with another video today uh we are going to be examining uh linux non-lts versus lts, which one's better for you, which one works better.

Well, that just depends on what you're doing it depends on a lot of things.

So if you watch this video by the end of it, I hope that you will understand what makes one better than the other and what the some of the benefits of each one are: the drawbacks, all that kind of stuff.

So thank you all for watching and let's get into it, okay, so for this video, the first thing I wanted to do is uh.

I'm going to do this like that.

Okay, y'all, see me right here.

Yep y'all see me okay, y'all, let's get into it.

So the first thing I wanted to do was kind of look at a uh online version of um.

What the difference is now this is on ubuntu's website they're they're uh, their community stuff, and I wanted y'all to see this.

So if you look right here right here, let's see uh right here.

So if you read all of this stuff right here, so if you look, I'm gonna read it.

I'm gonna read it for you.

That way, you can see it.

The most important thing for most people is how long to use an install without having to do a release upgrade so y'all know what a release upgrade is.

That's where you go from one version of a release to another so like, for instance, if you're going to uh from like uh 2004 to the next one so like it wouldn't be like 2004 to 2010, it would be like 2004 to like 3004 or whatever.

The next version would be see.

It's like a full feature, upgrade so you're going from one version to another.

That's what they mean by release upgrade a non lts version of a bunch only gets updates for nine months from its release, so to stay up to date, which is incredibly important.

You need you, don't need to upgrade twice a year now there are instances where that would be useful.

For instance, um.

Let's say that you are a developer and you need the newest release of things to keep developing for a developer.

This would be perfect right because they're, a developer is like trying to stay ahead of the wave and do the newest thing, whereas if it's in an enterprise environment you're having to upgrade twice a year, this is going to suck for you trust me.

I update windows on a darn daily basis, all the time.

That's all I do and it is a nightmare to keep up with it.

Just it never ends man, it never darn ends.

Now.

Windows is pretty good because we have ours, connect it's connected to azure in the place I work, so it makes it a little better.

It actually works pretty decent, but it still isn't foolproof.

Nothing ever will be.

So then, if you look here and then right here, so you need to upgrade every two years every six months, that's ridiculous, but for a developer it doesn't matter they're developing on the newest platforms.

So for them it works perfectly fine.

Now the lts version right.

The lts versions are a little bit different in that.

In that the lts version is supported for five years right from its release date and you can directly upgrade from one version of lts to another.

So before I said you can go from like let's say it's 2004 now, that's typically o4 is the the lts release.

You could go to 3004 right.

So look at this from uh.

This gives you long-lived solid base to target and test makes it super easy to release upgrade when you decide to it's ideal for mass deployment, you hear that so the lts is ideal for mass deployment and high availability systems and for people who just don't like upgrading all the time.

Basically, so that's what I wanted to show y'all now um.

So let's go over the benefits of each one, so there each one has its own benefits.

Each one has its drawbacks: I'm not going to really look at the drawbacks because it depends on what you're doing it really truly depends on what you're doing so.

One of the benefits of lts is not having to switch to a new version two times a year and really learning the desktop environment.

So you're learning all of the things that make it an lts, so you're learning how to work with this operating system over a long period of time, which makes it a lot better, because then you know what things can work with it.

You learn what programs work with it, which ones don't you learn a lot of things now: no changes to the infrastructures.

This could call possible downtime downtime.

Something is not right.

So, for instance, let's say that you have a um a deployment in place right.

A deployment just means that you're you're rolling out a a uh operating system right, you're deploying the operating system to the the people, to the clients, and let's say that you, because if you deal with an lts, the infrastructure is not going to change very much, and if it does it's just going to be a little bit minute.

It won't change the the functionality of how it works until maybe the next release upgrade, whereas the non-lts changes a lot more often so friend, let's go over the benefits of a non-lts, then they make the lta subversions better.

I believe this is how they make the the long-term support versions better, because they're developing on the non-lt on the l, the non-lts, that's where the development happens, which makes the long-term support versions better because they learn what works.

What doesn't work some of the bugs that happen right? It's it's no different than windows where they well it's different, but not in terms of how they do it.

So you windows, 11 right they not too long ago.

I did a video on the the dev version.

The dev release the developer release.

Then they came out with the beta release.

Then the preview release and then the full release is out right now to buy I'm not giving microsoft my money, I'm I've already, given them 200 for this one, I'm not going to give them any more.

That's why that's also another reason why I like the lts versions and why I like linux, a little better, because I don't have to keep shelling money out like dude.

Microsoft is money hungry man.

It seems like to me, but I mean there's a lot of development that goes into their os.

A lot of development: now, don't don't hate me, microsoft, people, I don't like microsoft, I don't like windows.

If I could use linux full time.

I would, and I still may find a way to do it.

I could do it.

It would just be a lot harder.

I mean it would take me a lot more time to get everything to work, but I do like what they're doing see that the non-lts is sort of a proving ground.

It kind of proves out the ideas that the developers have.

Is it going to work with this or with that um? Now the developers use the non-lts to improve functionality.

So I said this before it.

It adds feature sets to the distribution, so I mean really.

They both go hand in hand, but one is a little more uh ones, a little more um one's a little more stable than the other, so the lts version is much more stable, whereas the non-lts has issues sometimes with bugs.

Even the lts versions have issues with bugs, but it's to a minimum.

So you know I mean you can take it, how you all want, but that that's my opinion, that's my two cents on what the differences are between lts non-lts right I mean the main difference is the release cycle? That's the main difference between the two the length of time.

Now.

What's the conclusion to all this, what does any of this even mean? Should you switch to a non-lts versus an lts? Well, it really depends on what you're wanting to do if you're a developer, yes go with a non-lts version, if you're not don't go with something more stable like ubuntu, I wouldn't recommend ubuntu, but ubuntu 2004 is a pretty good.

It's a good distribution.

My personal favorite is fedora, but 35 which looks freaking gorgeous, but that's my personal preference.

Your preference may be different.

You just have to try.

I mean that's really how it comes down to so y'all.

That's what I'm gonna leave you with.

I'm gonna leave you I'm gonna, leave you with this um.

I want you to today.

I have other videos on my channel that I can link in the description that teach you how to install linux in a virtual machine.

I teach you how to install windows in a virtual machine.

I teach you how to do a lot of things so y'all, just just don't quit learning keep learning keep doing.

What you're doing.

Thank you for watching the sheryl technology channel.

This is chris signing off.

May you be blessed in all that you do people all that you do and remember, keep learning.

Thank you for watching.

Like comment subscribe until next time, people I love you bye.

You.

FAQs

What is the difference between LTS and non-LTS? ›

A non-LTS version of Ubuntu only gets updates for 9 months from its release so to stay up-to-date —which is critically important— you need to upgrade twice a year; you need to upgrade through every Ubuntu version… Conversely an Ubuntu LTS release is supported for 5 years and you can upgrade directly from LTS to LTS.

Should I use Ubuntu LTS or non-LTS? ›

LTS releases are more secure, stable, and hence reliable. In addition, all LTS releases get software updates and standard support for up to five years from the Canonical team. For servers, software development PCs, and other critical systems, it is highly recommended that you use the LTS version.

Should you use LTS? ›

LTS releases are supported for two years, and provide our creators with the maximum stability and fully supported for their project. If you are already in production or close to launching your project, we would always recommend using the latest LTS release, to ensure optimum performance and stability.

What is the difference between LTS and normal Linux? ›

LTS stands for Long Term Support. In contrast to normal Ubuntu versions, which are supported for a relatively short time before a new version is released and support is withdrawn for the old version, LTS version get support, bug and security fixes, for much longer. See the other answers for details.

Can I upgrade from non LTS to LTS? ›

Yeah you can. You need to make multiple hops.

What is Linux LTS? ›

The abbreviation stands for Long Term Support. Long Term Support means that a release labeled LTS is maintained for an extended period over regular releases.

Is LTS more stable? ›

The LTS version is the most stable and well-supported version of Node. js and is recommended for use in production environments. The stable version is the latest version of the platform, and includes the latest features and improvements, but may be less stable than the LTS version.

Which version of Ubuntu is most stable? ›

Lubuntu 20.04 LTS, which is based on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, offers improved stability and long-term support.

Why Ubuntu is preferred over Windows? ›

Ubuntu is known to be more secure when compared to Windows. This is primarily because the number of users using Ubuntu is far lesser as compared to that of Windows. This ensures that the damage in terms of viruses or damaging software is less as the main motive of attackers is to affect maximum computers.

How long is LTS supported? ›

LTC (Long-term support candidate)—Devices get LTS features 3 months before the version releases on the LTS channel. Devices automatically update to the next LTC version. LTS (Long-term support)—Devices automatically update to the next LTS version every 6 months.

How long are LTS versions supported? ›

An LTS release is a software release that gets support from the developer for an extended period, typically two to three years (in some cases, as long as five years). This contrasts with the standard support offered by developers, which is typically only six months to a year.

Do I need Linux LTS? ›

If you are using Intel graphics though, the latest Linux kernel is mostly the same stability. Generally speaking, out of tree modules are the main reason why you may need a LTS kernel. New hardware may require new kernels and support for new hardware is rarely backported to LTS kernels.

Should I install Linux LTS? ›

If you have older hardware and only want a single kernel, I would recommend LTS. Of course, generally, I would recommend having both. I use LTS whenever I can.

What is non-LTS version of Ubuntu? ›

A non-LTS version of Ubuntu only gets updates for 9 months from its release so to stay up-to-date —which is critically important— you need to upgrade twice a year; you need to upgrade through every Ubuntu version… Conversely an Ubuntu LTS release is supported for 5 years and you can upgrade directly from LTS to LTS.

Which node versions are LTS? ›

Releases
ReleaseStatusInitial Release
v19Current2022-10-18
v18Active LTS2022-04-19
v16Maintenance LTS2021-04-20
v14Maintenance LTS2020-04-21
1 more row

How long are Ubuntu LTS supported? ›

Get Our Latest Supported Ubuntu Linux

LTS stands for long-term support — which means five years, until April 2025, of free security and maintenance updates, guaranteed. Request our latest build of Ubuntu Linux for your SCSCF supported Linux computer today!

Which Linux distros have LTS? ›

Updated list of Linux distributions with Long Term Support (LTS)
DistributionVersionStandard LTS End
CentOS8Dec 31st 2021
Debian8 (Jessie)June 30th 2020
Debian9 (Stretch)June 30th 2022
Debian10 (Buster)June 2024
27 more rows

How to check LTS version in Linux? ›

Open your terminal either by using the Ctrl+Alt+T keyboard shortcut or by clicking on the terminal icon. Use the lsb_release -a command to display the Ubuntu version. Your Ubuntu version will be shown in the Description line. As you can see from the output above, I am using Ubuntu 18.04 LTS.

What does end of LTS mean? ›

LTS, in this context, stands for Long Term Support. And for Microsoft that means something like 3 years. (Yes, that might not be very long-term in your reckoning).

What is LTS vs current? ›

Current - Should incorporate most of the non-major (non-breaking) changes that land on nodejs/node main branch. Active LTS - New features, bug fixes, and updates that have been audited by the LTS team and have been determined to be appropriate and stable for the release line.

What is LTS vs real time kernel? ›

AFAIK Real-time kernels is for time-sensitive applications. Where you have to know exactly how long something will take. LTS stands for Long Term Support and is supported for a longer period of time than the normal kernels.

What version of Linux is most reliable? ›

Debian Linux

On top of the list, Debian Linux is the most stable Linux distribution. The great thing about it is that it is user-friendly, lightweight, and compatible with other environments.

Which Linux OS is fastest? ›

Top 12 Best Lightest / Fastest Linux Distros (Pros and Cons)
  1. Absolute Linux. Absolute Linux is a light and fast desktop distro that comes out of the box with LibreOffice suite and the Firefox browser. ...
  2. antiX Linux. ...
  3. Linux Lite. ...
  4. Lubuntu. ...
  5. Puppy Linux. ...
  6. SliTaz. ...
  7. LXLE. ...
  8. Porteus.
Mar 11, 2023

Which OS is most stable? ›

Linux...as it is open source, you can modify it according to your needs. Many of the available software programs, utilities, and games available on Linux are freeware or open source. Linux is and has always been a very secure operating system.

Is Ubuntu good for old computers? ›

Lightweight Distros Work Great on Older Machines

Linux is popular on older machines because minimalist distros like the Ubuntu variant Xubuntu run great on PCs with low memory and processor power when modern Windows versions struggle to do so on aging hardware.

What can Ubuntu do that Windows can t? ›

10 Things You Can Do on Linux but Not on Windows
  • Test a Distro Through Live Boot. ...
  • Choose From So Many Distros and Flavors. ...
  • Use the OS for Free Forever. ...
  • Create Your Own Operating System. ...
  • Use the OS Without Needing an Antivirus. ...
  • Don't Need to Restart the PC at Each Step. ...
  • Use Lightweight Distros to Resurrect Old PCs and Laptops.
Mar 15, 2022

Who should use Ubuntu? ›

User Friendly

There is a popular myth about Ubuntu is that it is integrated for coders and developers only. But the real fact is that Ubuntu is a good desktop operating system and could be used by any normal computer user.

Can I upgrade Ubuntu LTS to latest? ›

The file /etc/update-manager/release-upgrades must include the line Prompt=lts . Run the do-release-upgrade command to start the upgrade. To force an upgrade from the latest supported release to a development release, use the command do-release-upgrade -d .

Can Ubuntu LTS be upgraded? ›

Upgrades from one LTS to the next LTS release are only available after the first point release. For example, Ubuntu 18.04 LTS will only upgrade to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS after the 20.04. 1 point release.

Is Ubuntu LTS free? ›

There is no extra fee for the LTS version; we make our very best work available to everyone on the same free terms.

What is the LTS life cycle? ›

Long-term support (LTS) is a product lifecycle management policy in which a stable release of computer software is maintained for a longer period of time than the standard edition.

Which JDK version should I use? ›

Releases
JDK VersionTypeRecommendation
9FeatureNew release model was introduced. EOL. Upgrade to 11 or 17 now!
10FeatureEOL. Upgrade to 11 or 17 now!
11LTSWidely used LTS version. Plan upgrade to version 17 within the next months.
12FeatureEOL. Upgrade to 17 now!
9 more rows

Is Java 8 end of life? ›

Java 8 is the last release on the old cycle methodology still in active support. Non-LTS releases are supported for 6 months. The latest supported release in each release cycle can be found at https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/java-se-glance.html.

Can every computer run Linux? ›

A note on the target device: you can use a desktop or laptop computer to run Linux. Some Linux versions are particularly suited to older hardware like low-spec laptops and netbooks. If this is something you have in mind, take the time to research your computer model to find the best Linux operating system for it.

Should I always update Linux? ›

The Good Reason to Update the Linux Kernel

Yes, there is: for security. New vulnerabilities emerge in the Linux kernel all the time. The only way to fix the vulnerability is by updating your Linux kernel with a kernel version that is not vulnerable. And you absolutely must do it.

Is it safe to use an older version of Linux? ›

That machine, though not modern by any means, should be able to run Linux just fine. To answer your question though, yes, not being up to date on your operating system is always a security risk, though that risk is arguably negligible since you are on a Linux-based OS and not many threats currently target Linux.

Why Linux is just better? ›

Overall, while no operating system is 100% secure, Linux is generally considered to be more secure than Windows due to its open-source nature, more secure file system structure, controlled software installation process, and lower risk of malware and virus attacks.

Should I choose Linux over Windows? ›

If you are a developer, Linux is often the preferred choice as it provides a wide range of development tools and a strong community of developers. Many popular programming languages such as Python and Java have better support on Linux than on Windows.

What is the difference between LTS and normal release? ›

Support for bug fixes and security is only 6 months from the release of a particular version. It is suitable for users who always want to have the latest. An LTS Release is a specific version of an application for which patches and security patches are released for 2 years from the release of that version.

What does status LTS mean? ›

Long-term support (LTS) is a product lifecycle management policy in which a stable release of computer software is maintained for a longer period of time than the standard edition.

What is non LTS release? ›

A non-LTS version of Ubuntu only gets updates for 9 months from its release so to stay up-to-date —which is critically important— you need to upgrade twice a year; you need to upgrade through every Ubuntu version… Conversely an Ubuntu LTS release is supported for 5 years and you can upgrade directly from LTS to LTS.

What LTS stands for? ›

Learning and Teaching Support (various universities) LTS. Life's Too Short. LTS. Learning and Teaching Strategy (courses)

Are LTS more stable? ›

Yes, LTS is generally considered the most stable version. That said, if you're buying a brand new PC today, you may be better served by a newer version.

What is active vs maintenance LTS? ›

Long Term Support (LTS)

There are 2 sub types: Active: New features, improvements, security updates and adding non breaking features from future releases. For example, a feature could be added from Node 14 to Node 12. Maintenance: Only security updates and bug fixes will be added.

What does LTS means on Ubuntu? ›

Long term support and interim releases

LTS or 'Long Term Support' releases are published every two years in April. LTS releases are the 'enterprise grade' releases of Ubuntu and are used the most. An estimated 95% of all Ubuntu installations are LTS releases.

What does node LTS mean? ›

LTS version is an abbreviation of the Long Time Support version where the release of the software is maintained for a more extended period of time. The LTS version is commonly recommended for most users. In Node. js, new versions frequently come with more features, optimized performance, and bug fixes.

What does LTS mean NPM? ›

LTS: LTS is an acronym for Long-Term Support, and is applied to release lines (yes, that's plural) that will be supported and maintained by the Node.

What is LTS also known as? ›

Long term scheduler is also referred the job scheduler. Various processes are waiting for execution on a computer. These processes are waiting in the job queue.

How long is Ubuntu LTS supported? ›

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS 'Bionic Beaver', one of the most popular Ubuntu releases, will reach the end of the standard, five-year maintenance window for Long-Term Support (LTS) releases on 31 May 2023.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Pres. Carey Rath

Last Updated: 10/11/2023

Views: 5307

Rating: 4 / 5 (41 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Pres. Carey Rath

Birthday: 1997-03-06

Address: 14955 Ledner Trail, East Rodrickfort, NE 85127-8369

Phone: +18682428114917

Job: National Technology Representative

Hobby: Sand art, Drama, Web surfing, Cycling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Leather crafting, Creative writing

Introduction: My name is Pres. Carey Rath, I am a faithful, funny, vast, joyous, lively, brave, glamorous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.