What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is a user-friendly operating system based on Ubuntu, and it’s completely free. It’s often recommended for people switching from Windows because it’s easy to use, has a familiar desktop layout, and many things work right after installation.

Main changes in Linux Mint 22.2

This new release brings several improvements worth noting:

• Updated kernel (6.14)
  Better support for modern PCs, processors, and graphics cards. This is especially useful if you have newer hardware.
• Improved look and feel
  System themes now use softer colors, the dark mode is easier on the eyes, and the login screen has blurred backgrounds and user avatars. Everything feels more modern overall.
• Fingerprint support
  A new tool for fingerprint reader management is included. If your computer supports fingerprints, you can now use them to log in or manage system tasks instead of a password.
• Sticky Notes
  These simple notes now have rounded corners, work under the newer Wayland display server, and can even be synced with your phone through an Android app.
• Hypnotix (IPTV player)
  If you watch internet TV, you’ll enjoy the new playback modes – frameless or the so-called “theater mode,” where nothing distracts you while watching.
• Software Manager & Update Manager
  More user-friendly, now explaining the difference between traditional packages and Flatpak apps. The Update Manager also warns you when a restart is needed and provides a restart button directly.

What to watch out for

• Older hardware – if your computer is very old, some of the new features (like fingerprint support) may not be available.
• Theming – if you customized your themes and icons a lot in the previous version, you might need to adjust them again since colors and styles have changed a bit.
• Wayland – some applications still don’t work perfectly under Wayland. Most users can stay with the tried-and-tested X11, so this isn’t a big issue.
• Upgrading – when moving from an older version, it’s best to back up your files first. The upgrade process itself is simple and can be done directly via the Update Manager.

Is it worth upgrading?

Yes, if you want:

• a more modern and polished desktop,
• better hardware support,
• easier system management,
• long-term support until 2029.

However, if your current version works fine and you don’t want to deal with changes in looks or testing new features right away, you can safely stay on your current version for a while longer.

Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” is a solid step forward – stable, modern, and packed with useful improvements. Both beginners and advanced users will appreciate its easier management, cleaner design, and improved hardware support.

1. Back up your important data

Before starting the upgrade, make sure to save all important files – documents, photos, settings.

• The easiest way is to use Timeshift, which is already pre-installed on Linux Mint.
• This way, you can always roll back if something goes wrong.

2. Update your current system

• Open the Update Manager.
• Click the Refresh button and install all available updates.
• This ensures your system is ready for the upgrade.

3. Launch the upgrade tool

• In the Update Manager, open the menu Edit → Upgrade to Linux Mint 22.2 Zara.
• If you don’t see this option yet, it might be because the update mirrors are still syncing. In that case, wait a few hours or switch to a different mirror.

4. Follow the upgrade wizard

• The system will guide you with a simple step-by-step wizard.
• Just confirm the steps and wait while the packages download and install.

5. Restart your computer

Once the upgrade finishes, the Update Manager will ask you to restart.

• After restarting, you’ll be logged into the new Linux Mint 22.2.
• All your files and settings should remain intact.

Tips:

• If you previously customized themes or installed your own icons, you may need to reapply them.
• If you face issues with drivers (graphics card, Wi-Fi, etc.), open the Driver Manager where you can easily switch to another driver.
• Don’t worry – most users upgrade without any problems.

Upgrading to Linux Mint 22.2 is quick and safe if you back up your data and follow the steps carefully. This way you’ll get a modern system with support until 2029.