Tag Archives: BaliHobi.com

Who Invented Linux? The Full Story of Linux from 1991 to Today

Posted on by

Who Invented Linux? - Who Is Its Founder, and How Did the First Graphical Interface Appear?

Who Created Linux - Hello everybody, I’m creating a (free) operating system (just for fun). It won’t be big and professional like GNU..."He named it Linux – a blend of his first name, Linus, and the word Unix. The first Linux kernel (version 0.01) was released on September 17, 1991 with only basic functionality. Soon, developers from around the globe began contributing to its growth.

Who Created Linux

1. The Birth of Linux: Linus Torvalds and the Start of a Revolution (1991)

Linux, as we know it today, began in 1991 when a 21-year-old Finnish student named Linus Benedict Torvalds built his own operating system as an alternative to MINIX — a Unix-based teaching system used in universities. Linus wasn’t happy with MINIX’s limitations and wanted to create something more open and powerful. In August 1991, he posted a now-famous message to the comp.os.minix newsgroup, announcing he was working on a new, freely available operating system:

"Hello everybody, I’m creating a (free) operating system (just for fun). It won’t be big and professional like GNU..."

He named it Linux – a blend of his first name, Linus, and the word Unix. The first Linux kernel (version 0.01) was released on September 17, 1991 with only basic functionality. Soon, developers from around the globe began contributing to its growth.

Who Invented Linux? - The Birth of Linux: Linus Torvalds and the Start of a Revolution (1991)Linux, as we know it today, began in 1991 when a 21-year-old Finnish student named Linus Benedict Torvalds built his own operating system as an alternative to MINIX — a Unix-based teaching system used in universities. Linus wasn’t happy with MINIX’s limitations and wanted to create something more open and powerful. In August 1991, he posted a now-famous message to the comp.os.minix newsgroup, announcing he was working on a new, freely available operating system:

Linux GNU

2. GNU and Richard Stallman’s Role

To understand the full story, we also need to talk about Richard Stallman, who launched the GNU Project in 1983. His goal was to create a completely free operating system. GNU had most of the essential components — compilers, libraries, a shell — but it lacked one crucial piece: the kernel. When Linus released his kernel, GNU developers combined it with their own tools, creating the first fully functional free operating system. Technically speaking, the system is more accurately called GNU/Linux, but most people simply say “Linux.”

3. The First Graphical Interface in Linux

In its early days, Linux was entirely text-based, operated through a command line. Like Unix, it required users to type commands in a terminal. But for everyday users, a graphical interface — with windows, icons, and mouse control — was essential.

X Window System (X11) – The Foundation

The first real graphical system for Unix — and later Linux — was the X Window System, also known as X11. It was developed at MIT in 1984, and version 11 (X11) became the standard by 1987. Linux adopted X11 soon after its creation, paving the way for full desktop environments.

The First Graphical Interface in LinuxIn its early days, Linux was entirely text-based, operated through a command line. Like Unix, it required users to type commands in a terminal. But for everyday users, a graphical interface — with windows, icons, and mouse control — was essential.

Linux GUI

4. The First Linux Desktop Environments

With X11 in place, developers began building complete desktop environments — including panels, file managers, menus, and more.

FVWM – Early Experiments (Early 1990s)

One of the earliest lightweight “window managers” was FVWM (F Virtual Window Manager), popular around 1993. It was simple and required very few system resources.

KDE – K Desktop Environment (1996)

In 1996, Matthias Ettrich started developing KDE, aiming to provide a consistent, user-friendly desktop for Linux. KDE used the Qt libraries and introduced advanced features like a panel, Start-style menu, and multi-window support. The first KDE release came on July 12, 1998.

GNOME – GNU Network Object Model Environment (1997)

Due to licensing concerns with Qt, the GNOME project was launched in 1997 by Miguel de Icaza and Federico Mena. Built with the free GTK+ libraries, GNOME aimed to be completely open, flexible, and modular. The first stable GNOME release arrived in 1999.

5. Key Milestones

Year Event
1983 Richard Stallman launches the GNU Project
1984 X Window System developed at MIT
1991 Linus Torvalds releases Linux 0.01
1993 Linux adopts X11 and window managers (e.g., FVWM)
1996 KDE project begins
1997 GNOME project begins
1998 First KDE release
1999 First stable GNOME release

6. Linux Today

Today, Linux offers a wide range of desktop environments such as KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce, Cinnamon, Mate, LXQt, and many others — each with its own philosophy, features, and design. Thanks to its community, open development, and flexibility, Linux is now the foundation for countless systems: from servers and desktops to smartphones (such as Android).

Linux is the result of thousands of contributors working together, but it all began with one student — Linus Torvalds. Thanks to him, and pioneers like Richard Stallman and Matthias Ettrich, Linux has become one of the most influential operating systems in history.

What Is a Linux Distribution?

and

What’s Inside a Distribution?

A Linux distribution is a "package" of an operating system built on the Linux kernel. Each distribution is different, but they all allow you to use your computer freely without relying on Windows or macOS. You can choose the one that suits you best — based on your computer's performance, appearance, or intended use.

Linux distribution

A Linux distribution (often called a “distro”) is a complete operating system built around the Linux kernel. The kernel is the heart of any OS — handling communication between hardware and software. But a kernel alone isn’t enough. That’s why distributions include everything needed for everyday use — from a graphical interface and drivers to package managers, security tools, and applications.

Most Linux distributions include:

  • Linux kernel – the core of the system.
  • Package manager – for installing and managing software (e.g., APT, DNF, Pacman).
  • Desktop environment – such as GNOME, KDE, or Xfce, which defines the system’s look and feel.
  • Essential software – web browser, file manager, text editor, etc.
  • User management, networking, updates, security tools…

Why Are There So Many?

Linux is open-source — anyone can modify it. As a result, hundreds of distributions exist, each with a different focus:

  • Some are beginner-friendly (e.g., Ubuntu, Linux Mint).
  • Some focus on stability and servers (e.g., Debian, CentOS, Rocky Linux).
  • Others aim for maximum customization and performance (e.g., Arch Linux, Gentoo).
  • There are even special distros for hackers, older PCs, developers, or schools.

How Do They Differ?

Distributions vary mainly in:

  • Package manager (e.g., APT vs DNF vs Pacman).
  • Desktop environment (some resemble Windows, others macOS).
  • Update policy – some are conservative (Debian), others always bleeding-edge (Arch, Fedora).
  • Intended use – desktop, server, development, security, etc.

Info - wikipedia : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linux

Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11: A Free and Simple Guide

Posted on by
Learn what is important to know before upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11

The transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11

Is a relatively simple step for most people, and it is also free, provided you already have a legal copy of Windows 10. Microsoft allows a free upgrade to all users whose computers meet the new system's technical requirements. If you have an activated Windows 10 Home or Pro edition, you will receive the same edition in Windows 11 without needing to purchase a new license.

Before you start the upgrade

It is good practice to verify that your computer meets the minimum requirements. Windows 11 requires a modern 64-bit processor, TPM 2.0 support, and the Secure Boot feature. Most newer computers meet these conditions, but older machines may have issues. If your computer does not meet the requirements, the system will not offer you the upgrade, and you will not be able to transition for free.

The process itself is very similar to a standard update.

Simply open the settings menu in the system and navigate to the Windows Update section. If your computer is compatible, the option to download and install Windows 11 should appear there. The installation will proceed automatically, and your files and programs will remain intact. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you back up important documents, photos, and other data before the upgrade to ensure you lose nothing.

Your license does not change during the transition.

If your Windows 10 was activated, Windows 11 will activate automatically after installation. This also applies if you perform a clean installation in the future. You can use your existing digital key or product key from Windows 10 for activation, so there is no need to purchase a new one.

Overall, the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free, simple, and mostly trouble-free. If your computer meets the requirements, you can start anytime directly from your system settings.

 

How to Check for TPM 2.0 on Your PC for Windows 11 Installation

Before you begin the upgrade to Windows 11, it is wise to check if your computer meets the minimum requirements. One of these is support for TPM 2.0 technology. The following clear, step-by-step guide will show you how to easily find this information.

1. Verify TPM Using the tpm.msc Tool

This is the fastest and most reliable way to check if your computer has an available TPM and what version it is.

  • Press the Windows + R keyboard shortcut.
  • In the "Run" window, type tpm.msc and press Enter.
  • The "Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management" window will open.
  • At the top, you will find the Specification Version information.
  • If it says 2.0, your computer meets the requirement.
  • If it says 1.2 or you receive a message that TPM is not available, it may be disabled or your device does not support it.

2. Check TPM in Windows Settings

Another option is to view the information directly in the operating system's settings.

  • Open Windows Settings.
  • Choose the Update & Security option.
  • Click on the Device security section.
  • Select the Security processor item.
  • Here, the TPM version and its status will be displayed.
  • If this section does not appear, it means that Windows does not detect your TPM or it is not active.

3. Check in BIOS / UEFI

Some computers have TPM disabled, and it needs to be activated in the BIOS or UEFI.

After entering the BIOS, look for the following items:

  • For Intel processors: the setting is usually labeled PTT (Platform Trust Technology).
  • For AMD processors: look for AMD fTPM.

After activating it, save the changes and restart your computer. You can then re-verify if Windows detects the TPM.

4. Verify Compatibility Using the Official Microsoft Tool

Microsoft offers the PC Health Check tool, which can check all the requirements needed for installing Windows 11. If you run it, it will immediately tell you whether your computer supports TPM 2.0 and other necessary technologies.

 

What If Your PC Only Supports Windows 10?

If you have a computer that only supports Windows 10, it is important to be aware that official support has ended. Windows 10 stopped receiving security updates on October 14, 2025. Using this system now is risky because new threats and vulnerabilities are no longer patched.

Nevertheless, there are several options for moving forward:

One option is to utilize the paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

This program is available even for regular home users and allows you to receive additional security updates after standard support has ended. If you do not want to invest in a new computer but need to stay with Windows, this is a safer alternative. Details on the program are available on the Microsoft support page.

Another option is to continue using Windows 10 without support. This path is not recommended, as the system will become progressively less secure over time. An unprotected system is vulnerable to viruses, ransomware, and other attacks, which can compromise your data and privacy.

Installing Windows 11 "unofficially" is also possible, but very risky.

Microsoft does not support such installations, and the system might stop receiving updates or cease to function after a major feature update. This solution is better suited for experimentation rather than everyday use.

A very good and secure alternative is transitioning to a modern Linux distribution. Linux is free, has low hardware requirements, and provides long-term security updates. For general use—internet browsing, office documents, movies, or e-mail—it is perfectly sufficient and often runs more smoothly than Windows on older hardware.

The final option is to purchase a newer computer that meets the Windows 11 requirements. If you need a reliable system with long support and plan for long-term use, this is the most worthwhile investment.

Vollständige Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung für Einsteiger: Installation von Ubuntu/Debian,

Home Server Installation Guide for Ubuntu & Debian

Posted on by

Home Server from an Old PC: Secure Access from Anywhere (Ubuntu/Debian)

Complete step-by-step guide for beginners: Install Ubuntu/Debian, web management with Cockpit,Complete step-by-step guide for beginners: Install Ubuntu/Debian, web management with Cockpit, file sharing (Samba), secure remote access with Tailscale (recommended) and/or public HTTPS address via Cloudflare Tunnel.
Everything is free, no public IP, no port forwarding required.

1) What you need

  • Old 64-bit PC or laptop (recommended: 4 GB RAM+).
  • Small SSD for system + larger HDD/SSD for data.
  • LAN cable (more stable than Wi-Fi).
  • USB stick (8 GB+) for installation.

2) Download OS & Create USB

  • Ubuntu Server 24.04 LTS – recommended.
  • Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 LTS – with GUI.
  • Debian 13 “Trixie” (netinst).

Tools: balenaEtcher, Rufus

3) Install Ubuntu/Debian

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

4) Web-based management (Cockpit)

sudo apt install -y cockpit udisks2
sudo systemctl enable --now cockpit.socket

Browser: https://SERVER_IP:9090

5) File sharing in LAN (Samba/SMB)

sudo apt install -y samba
sudo mkdir -p /srv/data/shared
sudo chown -R $USER:$USER /srv/data/shared
[shared]
path = /srv/data/shared
browseable = yes
read only = no
create mask = 0640
directory mask = 0750
valid users = @smbusers
sudo groupadd smbusers
sudo usermod -aG smbusers $USER
newgrp smbusers
sudo smbpasswd -a $USER
sudo systemctl restart smbd

6) Secure access from anywhere (Tailscale)

curl -fsSL https://tailscale.com/install.sh | sh
sudo systemctl enable --now tailscaled
sudo tailscale up

7) Web-based file access (File Browser)

curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/filebrowser/get/master/get.sh | bash
filebrowser -r /srv/data
sudo mkdir -p /var/lib/filebrowser
sudo tee /etc/systemd/system/filebrowser.service >/dev/null <<'EOF'
[Unit]
Description=File Browser
After=network.target

[Service]
User=YOUR_USER
Group=YOUR_USER
ExecStart=/usr/local/bin/filebrowser -r /srv/data -p 8080 -d /var/lib/filebrowser/filebrowser.db
WorkingDirectory=/var/lib/filebrowser
Restart=on-failure

[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.target
EOF

sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl enable --now filebrowser

8) Alternative: your own cloud (Nextcloud)

sudo snap install nextcloud

9) Public HTTPS without ports (Cloudflare Tunnel)

cloudflared tunnel login
cloudflared tunnel create my-tunnel
sudo tee /etc/cloudflared/config.yml >/dev/null <<EOF
tunnel: UUID
credentials-file: /etc/cloudflared/UUID.json

ingress:
  - hostname: files.your-domain.com
    service: http://localhost:8080
  - service: http_status:404
EOF
cloudflared tunnel route dns UUID files.your-domain.com
sudo cloudflared service install
sudo systemctl enable --now cloudflared

10) Basic security

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install -y ufw
sudo ufw allow OpenSSH
sudo ufw allow 9090/tcp
sudo ufw enable
sudo ufw status
ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "email@example.com"
ssh-copy-id user@SERVER_IP
# /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
PasswordAuthentication no
sudo systemctl restart ssh

11) Alternatives

Synology DS224+ 2 Bay NAS – Efficient Home Storage

Looking for a reliable and easy-to-manage storage solution for your home or small office? The Synology DS224+ 2 Bay NAS Desktop offers efficient performance, secure data management, and expandable storage capacity. Perfect for backups, file sharing, and media streaming.

View on Amazon →

Tip: Great balance of efficiency and simplicity – ideal for home users who need secure and scalable storage.

QNAP TS-264 2 Bay NAS – Powerful Multimedia & Backup Hub

Need more than just storage? The QNAP TS-264 brings powerful hardware, rich app support, and great performance for multimedia, virtualization, and backups. Perfect for power users who want flexibility and speed.

View on Amazon →

Tip: Excellent choice if you need both storage and advanced multimedia features.

Asustor Drivestor 2 Pro – Affordable Home NAS

Want an affordable and user-friendly NAS? The Asustor Drivestor 2 Pro is an ideal solution for beginners who want simple storage, backups, and personal cloud features at a fair price.

View on Amazon →

Tip: Budget-friendly choice with enough features for most home users.

Affiliate links (Amazon.co.uk /eBay/Smarty.cz via eHub). Buying through them supports this site’s operation and functionality at no extra cost to you.

Virtualisierungsplattform von Oracle. Sie ermöglicht das Ausführen mehrerer Betriebssysteme – z. B. Linux, Windows oder

How to Install VirtualBox on Windows 11 and Run Ubuntu (Step-by-Step)

Posted on by

What is VirtualBox and How to Install It

Try the best Linux distros directly on Windows!

VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization platform developed by Oracle. It allows you to run multiple operating systems—such as Linux, Windows, or macOS—on a single computer without affecting your main system. With VirtualBox, you can safely test new software, explore different operating systems, or create isolated environments for development and learning.How does VirtualBox work? Imagine it as a “computer inside a computer” that you can start, pause, back up, or move anytime.

VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization platform developed by Oracle. It allows you to run multiple operating systems—such as Linux, Windows, or macOS—on a single computer without affecting your main system. With VirtualBox, you can safely test new software, explore different operating systems, or create isolated environments for development and learning.

How to Install VirtualBox on Windows 11 and Run Ubuntu (Step-by-Step)

Want to try Linux safely inside Windows? This guide shows you how to enable virtualization in your PC’s firmware, install Oracle VM VirtualBox on Windows 11, and then set up Ubuntu Desktop in a virtual machine—with screenshots-style directions and links to the official downloads and docs.

What you’ll need

  • A Windows 11 PC with hardware virtualization support (Intel VT-x or AMD-V)
  • At least 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) and 30–40 GB free disk space for Ubuntu
  • An admin account on Windows
  • A reliable internet connection

1) Turn on virtualization in your UEFI/BIOS

Virtualization must be enabled at the firmware level. Different brands use different menu names (e.g., Intel® Virtualization Technology (VT-x), AMD SVM, Intel VT-d/AMD IOMMU).

  1. Restart your PC and enter UEFI/BIOS (often Del, F2, F10, F12, or Esc at the logo).
  2. Find CPU / Advanced / Security sections and enable:
    • Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) or SVM Mode (AMD-V)
    • (Optional but useful) VT-d / IOMMU for advanced device features
  3. Save & Exit; Windows will boot normally.

If you’d like a manufacturer-guided walkthrough, Microsoft provides a concise primer and vendor links: “Enable virtualization on Windows”. (Podpora Microsoftu)

2) (Optional) Decide what to do about Hyper-V & “Memory integrity”

VirtualBox 7 works on Windows hosts that have Hyper-V–based features enabled (e.g., Virtual Machine Platform, Windows Hyper-V, WSL2). Performance is generally fine, but can be slower than when Hyper-V is fully off. Oracle has steadily improved Hyper-V compatibility in recent releases. (virtualbox.org, docs.oracle.com)

If you want maximum VirtualBox performance, you can consider temporarily disabling Windows features that claim the hypervisor:

  • Windows features: Hyper-V, Virtual Machine Platform, Windows Hypervisor Platform, Windows Sandbox
  • Security: Core isolation → Memory integrity (can interfere with some hypervisors)

You can toggle Memory integrity under Windows Security → Device security → Core isolation details. Reboot when prompted. (Security trade-off: turning this off reduces certain protections.) (Microsoft Learn)

3) Install Oracle VM VirtualBox for Windows 11

  1. Download the Windows hosts installer from the official site:
  2. Run the installer (.exe) and accept the default components. The network driver install may briefly reset networking—this is normal and documented in the manual. (docs.oracle.com)
  3. After installation, double-click the Extension Pack file to import it into VirtualBox (or use File → Tools → Extension Pack Manager).

Docs: VirtualBox User Guide (Windows hosts & setup). (docs.oracle.com)

4) Download Ubuntu Desktop (LTS) and verify it

As of August 18, 2025, the current LTS is Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS (Noble Numbat).

  • Download: Ubuntu Desktop LTS (64-bit, ~6 GB). (Ubuntu)
  • Alternative mirrors & torrents and all point-releases are listed on the official releases page. (releases.ubuntu.com)

(Recommended) Verify the ISO:

  1. From the releases directory for your version, download the matching SHA256SUMS file.
  2. On Windows, open PowerShell in the folder with the ISO and run: 
    certutil -hashfile .\ubuntu-24.04.3-desktop-amd64.iso SHA256

    Compare the result with the checksum in SHA256SUMS. Canonical’s tutorial explains the full verification flow. (Ubuntu)

5) Create a new Ubuntu VM in VirtualBox

  1. Open VirtualBox → New.
  2. Name: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (VirtualBox will auto-select Type: Linux, Version: Ubuntu (64-bit)).
  3. Skip “Unattended” if you want to follow the manual installer exactly (you can also use unattended if you prefer).
  4. Memory (RAM): 4096 MB minimum (8192 MB recommended if you have ≥16 GB host RAM).
  5. Processors: 2–4 vCPUs (leave at 2 if your host is a 4-core CPU).
  6. Virtual disk: Create VDI, Dynamically allocated, 30–40 GB (or more).
  7. Display → Video Memory: set to 128 MB; optionally Enable 3D Acceleration for smoother desktop effects.
  8. Network: leave NAT for internet access (you can switch to Bridged later if you want the VM visible on your LAN).
  9. Storage: Click the empty optical drive → Choose a disk file… → select your Ubuntu .iso.

Ubuntu’s own VirtualBox tutorial provides a quick visual walkthrough if you’d like to cross-check settings. (Ubuntu)

6) Install Ubuntu inside the VM

  1. Select the VM → Start.
  2. At the Ubuntu splash, choose Try or Install Ubuntu → Install Ubuntu.
  3. Keyboard layout: choose your layout.
  4. Installation type:
    • Normal installation (browser, utilities, office apps) or Minimal (lighter).
    • You can leave Download updates while installing checked.
  5. Disk setup: choose Erase disk and install Ubuntu (this affects only the virtual disk).
  6. Set your time zone, name, computer name, username, and password.
  7. Click Install and wait for the process to finish, then Restart the VM.

7) Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (for better graphics, clipboard, shared folders, etc.)

Guest Additions improve display resizing, mouse integration, shared clipboard/drag-drop, and more.

A. Prepare build tools in Ubuntu (inside the VM):

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y build-essential dkms linux-headers-$(uname -r)

B. Insert and run the installer:

  1. In the VM window menu: Devices → Insert Guest Additions CD Image…
  2. If prompted in Ubuntu, click Run; otherwise run it manually: 
    sudo /media/$USER/VBox_GAs_*/VBoxLinuxAdditions.run
  3. Reboot the VM.

Official docs: Chapter 4: Guest Additions (VirtualBox Manual). (virtualbox.org)

8) Nice-to-have tweaks

  • Display scaling: Ubuntu Settings → Displays (adjust scale for HiDPI).
  • Shared clipboard & Drag’n’Drop: VM Settings → General → Advanced → set to Bidirectional. (Requires Guest Additions.) (virtualbox.org)
  • Shared folders: VM Settings → Shared Folders → add a host folder and enable Auto-mount.

9) Troubleshooting

  • “VERR_NEM_NOT_AVAILABLE” / VM won’t start
    Usually means Windows’ hypervisor owns virtualization (Hyper-V / VBS / Memory integrity). Either keep VirtualBox 7 (which can use Hyper-V, sometimes with lower performance), or temporarily disable Hyper-V–related features and Memory integrity (Core isolation) as noted earlier, then reboot. (virtualbox.org, Microsoft Learn)
  • Slower performance when Hyper-V is on
    This is expected in some setups; Oracle has improved support but native mode is usually faster. Consider disabling Hyper-V features if you need maximum performance. (virtualbox.org)
  • No network bridge option
    Re-installing VirtualBox (or repairing it) will re-add the host network drivers needed for Bridged Networking (they are part of the Windows host package). (docs.oracle.com)

Official links (quick list)

  • VirtualBox Downloads (Windows hosts + Extension Pack) – virtualbox.org. (virtualbox.org)
  • VirtualBox User Manual (Windows hosts, settings, Guest Additions). (docs.oracle.com, virtualbox.org)
  • Enable virtualization on Windows (UEFI/BIOS + Windows features) – Microsoft. (Podpora Microsoftu)
  • Memory integrity (Core isolation) – what it is and where to toggle – Microsoft. (Microsoft Learn)
  • Ubuntu Desktop (24.04 LTS) download – Canonical. (Ubuntu)
  • Ubuntu releases index (all point releases & checksums). (releases.ubuntu.com)
  • Verify your Ubuntu download (checksums/signatures) – Canonical tutorial. (Ubuntu)

 

Gaming on Linux: Steam, Proton, Lutris, Heroic and Bottles

Posted on by

Gaming on Linux: Steam, Proton, Lutris, Heroic and Bottles

Gaming on Linux: Steam, Proton, Lutris, Heroic and Bottles 🎮

A few years ago, Linux was seen mainly as a system for developers, admins and tech enthusiasts. Today it’s a different story — gaming on Linux is booming. Thanks to platforms like Steam (with integrated Proton), Lutris, Heroic Games Launcher and Bottles, you can enjoy not only native Linux titles but also many popular Windows games.

This guide shows how easy it is to play on different Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, Arch Linux, SteamOS and more. You’ll learn which gaming platforms and installers are available, how to handle drivers, Wine/Proton, and where to look for performance tweaks.

Get ready to have fun without windows — Linux can absolutely game hard!

 

How to install the official Minecraft Java Edition on Linux Mint, Ubuntu and Debian

Install Minecraft - gaming on Linux -Java

Minecraft Java Edition runs great on Linux. In this guide I’ll show you how to download and install the official Minecraft launcher directly from minecraft.net without any hassle.

Works for Linux Mint, Ubuntu and Debian plus their derivatives (e.g., Zorin, Elementary, Pop!_OS, etc.).

✅ What you need

  • Installed Linux Mint or Ubuntu (64-bit)
  • Internet connection
  • Java preinstalled (the launcher usually ships its own)
  • Web browser and terminal

1. Download the Minecraft launcher

  1. Open the official download page: 👉 https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download
  2. In the Linux section click: 🔽 Download Minecraft.deb — you’ll get Minecraft.deb, a package for Debian/Ubuntu systems (including Linux Mint).

2. Install the .deb package

Once the file is downloaded (e.g., in your Downloads folder), install it using one of these methods:

🖱️ Option A — graphical

  • Open the Downloads folder
  • Double-click Minecraft.deb
  • Your package manager will open (e.g., GDebi or Software Center)
  • Click Install

🖥️ Option B — terminal

If you want the quick way, run:

sudo dpkg -i ~/Downloads/Minecraft.deb

If you see dependency errors, run:

sudo apt install -f

This will install missing dependencies and fix the installation.

3. Launch Minecraft

After installation you’ll find Minecraft in your app menu (e.g., “Games” or “All applications”) under Minecraft Launcher.

Open it and sign in with your Microsoft or Mojang account.

On first run the launcher downloads additional files — this may take a moment.

4. Run Minecraft

After signing in:

  1. In the launcher, go to Settings
  2. Find the Language option

5. Tip: Update the Minecraft launcher

Minecraft usually updates itself on launch. If you need to update manually:

Frequently asked questions and issues

 Minecraft won’t start or crashes

Try launching Minecraft from the terminal:

minecraft-launcher

Check the error message to pinpoint the cause. Reinstalling or ensuring Java/dependencies are installed often helps.

Do I need to install Java manually?

No. The official launcher downloads and uses its own Java — manual installation is not required.

Minecraft runs flawlessly on Linux, and thanks to the official .deb package, installation is as simple as on Windows. If you later want to add mods, shaders, or play on servers, Linux handles it just fine.

I’m also preparing guides for OptiFine, Fabric, Forge and multi-modpack launchers like Prism or ATLauncher — stay tuned.

 

 

 

 

Installing Xaero's Minimap and Fabric for Minecraft

How to install Minecraft mods on Linux Mint (Fabric + Xaero's Minimap)

 

How to install Xaero's Minimap and Fabric on Linux Mint

Using Linux Mint and want a handy Xaero’s minimap in Minecraft? This step-by-step tutorial shows how to install the Fabric mod loader and Xaero’s Minimap — safely and easily.

What you’ll need

  • Minecraft Java Edition
  • Run at least once (so folders are created)
  • Web browser
  • Internet connection

1. Install Minecraft and run it once

If Minecraft is already installed, skip this step. Otherwise download the Java edition here:

👉 https://minecraft.net

Run it once and close it. This creates the required folders.

2. Download and run the Fabric loader

Fabric is a “mod loader” — it lets you run mods like the minimap. Get it from the official site:

👉 https://fabricmc.net/use/

Steps:

  1. Click Download for Universal/.JAR.
  2. Locate the downloaded file fabric-installer.jar (usually in Downloads).

✏️ Tip: How to run a .jar on Linux Mint

Option A — graphical:

  • Right-click the file → Properties
  • Open the Permissions tab
  • Check Allow executing file as program

Option B — terminal:

chmod +x ~/Downloads/fabric-installer.jar

Then run the installer:

java -jar ~/Downloads/fabric-installer.jar

3. Install Fabric into Minecraft

After launching the installer:

  1. Select your Minecraft version (e.g., 1.21)
  2. Choose Install client
  3. Leave Create profile checked
  4. Click Install

Fabric installs into your .minecraft folder and creates a new profile in the launcher.

4. Install Fabric API

This library is required for most mods to work.

👉 Download from:
https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/fabric-api

Place the downloaded .jar here:

~/.minecraft/mods/

If the mods folder doesn’t exist, create it.

Fabric API is like a “core library” that many Fabric mods depend on.

5. Download and install Xaero's Minimap

Now grab the minimap itself.

👉 Official download page:
https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/xaeros-minimap

  1. Pick the version matching your Minecraft version and built for Fabric.
  2. Download the .jar file.
  3. Save it in the same folder as Fabric API:
~/.minecraft/mods/

6. Launch Minecraft with Fabric and the minimap

  1. Open the Minecraft launcher.
  2. In the version list, choose the Fabric profile.
  3. Click Play.

If everything is set up correctly, the minimap appears in the top-right corner in-game.
Press Y to open the minimap settings — you can change position, style, waypoints and more.

Frequently asked questions

 Can I use Forge instead of Fabric?

Not for this version of Xaero’s Minimap. Fabric and Forge are not compatible — pick the one required by your mod.

 Can I combine it with Xaero’s World Map?

Yes, recommended! Xaero’s World Map complements the minimap and they work together without issues.

👉 https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/xaeros-world-map

Just place it in ~/.minecraft/mods/ as well.

Once you know where to download from and how to install, using mods on Linux is straightforward. Xaero’s Minimap is genuinely helpful, and the Fabric loader is a great base for future tweaks.

XFCE - změna linuxového prostředí do Ubuntu 24.04

Change Linux Desktop – Installing XFCE on Ubuntu 24.04

Posted on by

Change of Linux Environment: Installing XFCE on Ubuntu 24.04.2 LTS

Linux offers many desktop environments that you can switch between without reinstalling the entire system. In this guide, we will show you how to switch to XFCE – a lightweight and fast environment, ideal for weaker hardware or users who want simplicity and speed.

This procedure works in all editions of Ubuntu 24.04.2 LTS, including Ubuntu Cinnamon.

✅ What you will need

  • A working installation of Ubuntu 24.04.2 LTS (any edition)
  • Internet access
  • Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T)

🔧 1. Update the system

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

🧰 2. Install the XFCE environment

Minimal XFCE (just the basic environment):

sudo apt install xfce4 -y

Full XFCE environment (including tools, login manager, etc.):

sudo apt install xubuntu-desktop -y

During the installation, you will be prompted to choose a display manager (login screen). We recommend lightdm, which is lightweight and fits well with XFCE.

🔄 3. Reboot the system

sudo reboot

🔐 4. Log into XFCE

On the login screen, select the XFCE session (gear icon) and log in as usual.

🧹 How to remove XFCE (optional)

sudo apt purge xfce4 xubuntu-desktop lightdm -y
sudo apt autoremove --purge -y

💡 Tip

XFCE is an excellent choice for weaker computers, or if you want the simplest and fastest system possible. However, you can always switch back to your original environment – in Linux, nothing is set in stone.

✍️ Written by: Balihobi.com
📅 Date: August 2025

Change of Linux Environment: Installing XFCE on Ubuntu 24.04.2 LTS

AI USB Camera: Real-Time Object Detection using the YOLOv8 Model in Ubuntu

Posted on by
Real-time object detection using the YOLOv8 model and a USB camera in Ubuntu. A simple step-by-step guide – from installation to your own Python script. AI USB Camera:

AI Real-Time Object Detection in Ubuntu Using YOLOv8

AI USB Camera:Install Required Packages in Ubuntu

If you are looking for a fast, accurate, and easy-to-use object detection model, then AI – YOLOv8 is the right choice. This article will show you exactly how to do it, step by step.
Specifically, we will focus on:
  • Setting up your AI USB camera in the Ubuntu environment.
  • Integrating and utilizing the modern YOLOv8 model for real-time object detection.
  • Creating your very own Python script that connects everything together.
Primarily, this guide is intended for anyone who wants to dive into practical machine learning and artificial intelligence. Whether you are a beginner or a more experienced developer, our tutorial will simplify the entire process, from installation to a functional application.
Let's now look at the individual steps and bring your AI USB camera to life.

 

Object Detection Using USB Camera in Ubuntu – YOLOv8 Recognizes Objects in Real Time

1. Installing the required packages

First, it is necessary to install the required libraries on your system. Open the terminal and enter the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3-pip
pip install ultralytics opencv-python
AI USB Camera: Real-Time Object Detection in Ubuntu Using YOLOv8 - sudo apt update

Update

sudo apt install python3-pip

Install python3

pip install ultralytics opencv-python

Install ultralytics opencv

If the installation fails, you can try to force the installation with a potential risk of affecting system packages (use with caution):

pip install ultralytics opencv-python --break-system-packages
pip install ultralytics opencv-python --break-system-packages

Install ultralytics opencv --break-system-packages !

AI USB Camera: Real-Time Object Detection in Ubuntu Using YOLOv8 - pip-install-ultralytics-opencv-python --break-system-packages

Then update the pip package manager:

pip install --upgrade pip

or

pip install --upgrade pip --break-system-packages
pip-install --upgrade-pip

Install upgrade pip

or
pip-install-upgrade-pip-break-system

Install Upgrade pip-break-system !

4.pip-install-opencv-break-system-packages

end-instal-opencv

This will install the YOLOv8 (ultralytics) library and OpenCV library for working with images and video.

2. Verify the YOLO installation

To make sure YOLOv8 is installed correctly, run this command in the terminal:

yolo

If you see help with available YOLO commands, the installation was successful ✅

3. Downloading a pretrained model and first detection

YOLOv8 offers several versions of models – from lightweight to the most accurate ones. For the beginning, we recommend the yolov8n.pt (nano) model, which is very fast:

yolo detect predict model=yolov8n.pt source='0'
yolo detect predict model=yolov8n.pt source='0'

Yolo detect predict model Volov8n

This command will:

• download the yolov8n.pt model
• turn on your default camera
• display detected objects in real time 📸

Note: If you have multiple cameras, try source='1' or a higher number.

4. Creating your own Python script

For advanced usage, you can create your own Python script. Below is an example:

This script loads the model, starts the camera and in an infinite loop performs detection on each frame. The results are displayed in a separate window. Press q to exit the program.

The YOLOv8 model can recognize a wide range of objects – people, dogs, horses, cars, birds, skateboards and many others. The accuracy is significantly higher than older models such as MobileNet SSD.

Optional: switch to larger models

If you have more powerful hardware, you can use more accurate models:

• yolov8s.pt – small
• yolov8m.pt – medium
• yolov8l.pt – large
• yolov8x.pt – extra large (most accurate but slowest)

In the Python script, simply change:

model = YOLO("yolov8s.pt")

Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting

⚠️ Warning “Could not initialize NNPACK!”

This is not an error. You just don’t have CPU optimizations for NNPACK → YOLO continues to work, only slightly slower.

Black screen after starting the camera

Possible reasons:

1️⃣ Camera is being used by another program
Close applications using the camera.

Check processes:

sudo fuser -v /dev/video0

2️⃣ Verify camera functionality using this script:

test-1

from ultralytics import YOLO
import cv2

model = YOLO("yolov8n.pt")
cap = cv2.VideoCapture(0)

if not cap.isOpened():
    print("❌ Camera failed to open")
    exit()

while True:
    ret, frame = cap.read()
    if not ret:
        print("❌ Camera returns no frame")
        break

    results = model.predict(source=frame, conf=0.5, verbose=False)
    annotated_frame = results[0].plot()

    cv2.imshow("YOLO Camera", annotated_frame)
    if cv2.waitKey(1) & 0xFF == ord('q'):
        break

cap.release()
cv2.destroyAllWindows()

More tips for black screen:

• change 0 → 1 in VideoCapture()
• set resolution:

cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_WIDTH, 640)
cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_HEIGHT, 480)

• add a small delay:

cv2.waitKey(10)

Older laptops ↴

If the hardware is weak, switch YOLO to CPU:

model.to('cpu')

Tips for speeding up:

• smaller frames (e.g. imgsz=320)
• CPU only (default)
• acceleration via TFLite / ONNX

Your final test file ✅

Designed for weak PCs with integrated GPU, e.g. 2nd generation i3. Should also work on Raspberry Pi 4.

# yolo_stream_light.py
from ultralytics import YOLO
import cv2
import time

model = YOLO("yolov8n.pt")
model.to("cpu")

cap = cv2.VideoCapture(0)
cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_WIDTH, 640)
cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_HEIGHT, 416)  # 416 often faster
# cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_WIDTH, 960)
# cap.set(cv2.CAP_PROP_FRAME_HEIGHT, 720)

if not cap.isOpened():
    print("Camera cannot be opened")
    exit()

print("Starting stream. Press q to exit.")
while True:
    ret, frame = cap.read()
    if not ret:
        print("Cannot load frame")
        break

    results_gen = model.predict(source=frame, conf=0.35, imgsz=416,
                               verbose=False, stream=True)

    try:
        res = next(results_gen)
    except StopIteration:
        res = None

    if res is not None:
        annotated = res.plot()
    else:
        annotated = frame

    cv2.imshow("YOLO light stream", annotated)
    if cv2.waitKey(1) & 0xFF == ord('q'):
        break

cap.release()
cv2.destroyAllWindows()

Save the file with the .py extension and with no spaces in the name:
✅ yolo_stream_light.py

or Download

Open the terminal in the folder with your created program yolo_stream_light.py. Run the program in the terminal using the command: python3 yolo_stream_light.py
Test Yolo - yolov8 usb cam detect

AI USB Camera: Real-Time Object Detection in Ubuntu Using YOLOv8

 

ubuntu disk encryption lvm - Encryption locks all your data on the disk with a strong key (your password).Without this password, no one can access your files. When you start your computer, a window appears asking for your encryption password. Only after entering it will the disk “unlock” and the system will boot.

Disk Encryption in Ubuntu: How to Protect Your Data from Thieves with LVM

Posted on by

🔐 What is Disk Encryption (LVM Encryption) and Why Use It

Today, most people store a lot of personal information on their computers — photos, passwords, work documents, and various sensitive data.
But what would happen if someone stole your laptop or hard drive?
If the disk isn’t protected, the thief can easily read your data — even if your computer is locked.

Fortunately, there’s a simple and effective solution: disk encryption using LVM encryption, which is available in Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and other Linux systems.

What Encryption Means - Disk Encryption LVM

Encryption locks all your data on the disk with a strong key (your password).
Without this password, no one can access your files.
When you start your computer, a window appears asking for your encryption password.
Only after entering it will the disk “unlock” and the system will boot.

It works like a safe:

  • If you don’t lock it, anyone can open it.
  • If you lock it, only someone with the key can get in.

Why Encryption Is Important

  • 🧍‍♂️ It protects your personal files, even if someone steals your computer or disk.
  • 🧳 If the device is lost, the thief will only see unreadable data.
  • 🔐 The password you enter when turning on the computer is the only way to unlock the disk.
  • ✅ It works automatically — after setting it up once, you don’t have to do anything else.

How It Works in Practice (Simple Version)

  1. You install Ubuntu with LVM encryption enabled.
  2. When turning on the computer, you’ll see a prompt asking for your encryption password.
  3. After entering the correct password, the system opens, and you can use it normally.
  4. When the computer is turned off, all data remains locked.
  5. If someone steals the disk, they will only see an unreadable “block of data.”

Can Encryption Be Bypassed?

If a thief doesn’t know your encryption password, they can’t access your data.
They can’t open it on another computer either.
They can’t simply read your photos, documents, or saved passwords.

The only real way to access the data is to know the password.
That’s why it’s important to use a strong password that can’t be easily guessed.

🛡️ Tips for Strong Protection

  • Use a strong encryption password (at least 8–12 characters, preferably longer).
  • Don’t share your password or keep it on a note near your laptop.
  • When not using your computer, turn it off or lock it.
  • You can also back up important files (for example, to an external drive).

LVM encryption provides strong protection for your data.
If someone steals your computer or disk, it’s practically impossible to access your data without the password.
Encryption can be enabled during the installation of Ubuntu, so even beginners can set it up easily.
With encryption, you can be sure your privacy stays safe.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki

Linux Made Easy – Tutorials & Tips

How to Install Ubuntu 24.04 LTS with Disk Erasure and LVM Encryption

Would you like to start using a secure and reliable Linux system while keeping your data safe?
In this guide, we’ll show you step by step how to install Ubuntu 24.04 LTS with disk erasure and LVM encryption enabled.

What You’ll Need

  • A downloaded ISO image of Ubuntu 24.04 LTS from the official website.
  • A USB flash drive with at least 9 GB capacity.
  • A bootable USB created using a tool like Rufus or balenaEtcher.
  • A computer where you can overwrite the entire disk. (Warning: all data will be deleted!)

1. Boot the Installer from USB

  • Insert the USB flash drive into your computer.
  • Restart the computer and set boot priority to USB in BIOS/UEFI.
  • After the installer loads, click “Try or Install Ubuntu.”
  • Then choose “Install Ubuntu.”

2. Choose Language and Keyboard Layout

 

Select English (or your preferred language).Set your keyboard layout and click Continue.

Choose Language

A detailed guide to implementing full disk encryption on Ubuntu using LVM. Follow these steps to ensure maximum data security and privacy for your Linux setup.

Choose Language and Keyboard Layout

  • Select English (or your preferred language).
  • Set your keyboard layout and click Continue.

3. Connect to the Internet (Optional)

If you’re connected via cable, the internet will work automatically.If you’re using Wi-Fi, connect now

Connect to the Internet

  • If you’re connected via cable, the internet will work automatically.
  • If you’re using Wi-Fi, connect now.

(Internet isn’t required, but it’s recommended for downloading updates during installation.)

Install update

Update now

Install Ubuntu

4. Installation Type

Type of installation

Applications

Ubuntu installation

Optimise your computer

 

  • Choose Normal installation (recommended).
  • Check Download updates while installing Ubuntu.
  • Check Install third-party software (e.g., drivers and codecs).
  • Click Continue.

5. Disk Layout and Encryption

Select Erase disk and install Ubuntu.

Disk setup

Use LVM and Encryption - Confirmation screen of successfully completed Ubuntu installation with LVM encryption

Disk setup LVM

 

  • Select Erase disk and install Ubuntu.
  • Check Use LVM with the new Ubuntu installation.
  • Also check Encrypt the new Ubuntu installation for security.
  • Click Continue.

⚠️ Warning: This step erases all data on the disk. Back up anything important beforehand.

6. Set Up Encryption

A window will appear to create your encryption key (password).Enter a strong password and confirm it. You’ll use this password each time you start the system. Click OK to continue.

Set Up Encryption

 

Diagram illustrating the structure of the LUKS encrypted volume and LVM logical volumes

LUKS (LVM)

  • A window will appear to create your encryption key (password).
  • Enter a strong password and confirm it.
    • You’ll use this password each time you start the system.
  • Click OK to continue.

7. Time Zone Selection

Choose your time zone on the map (for example, “Prague” or your local region).Click Continue.

Select your timezone

  • Choose your time zone on the map (for example, “London” or your local region).
  • Click Continue.

8. Create a User Account

Enter your name.Choose a computer name. Create a username. Set a strong login password. Choose whether to log in automatically or require the password at startup. Continue.

Create a User Account

  • Enter your name.
  • Choose a computer name.
  • Create a username.
  • Set a strong login password.
  • Choose whether to log in automatically or require the password at startup.
  • Continue.

9. System Installation

Installation will now begin.It usually takes 10–30 minutes, depending on your computer and internet speed.

System installation

When finished, click Restart Now.

Restart

  • Installation will now begin.
  • It usually takes 10–30 minutes, depending on your computer and internet speed.
  • When finished, click Restart Now.

10. First Boot and Encryption Password

After restarting, you’ll see a black screen asking for your encryption password.Enter the password and press Enter. The system will boot and log you into your account.

First Boot and Encryption Password

  • After restarting, you’ll see a black screen asking for your encryption password.
  • Enter the password and press Enter.
  • The system will boot and log you into your account.

11. Recommended Post-Installation Steps

  • Run Software Updater and install all available updates.
  • Install the applications you need.
  • Set up backups with Timeshift to easily restore your system in the future.

✅ Done!
You now have Ubuntu 24.04 LTS installed with a secure, encrypted disk using LVM.
Your data is protected and ready for safe use.

AI chatbot: How to create your own AI chatbot on Ubuntu – simple Python guide

How to Build Your Own AI on Ubuntu – AI Chatbot Simple Guide

Posted on by

How to Create Your Own Chatbot on Ubuntu
AI Chatbot Simple Guide

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just for big companies or scientists. Thanks to the open-source nature of Ubuntu, you ca

AI Chatbot Ubuntu python

How to create your first chatbot in Python

Artificial intelligence is no longer just for big companies or researchers. Thanks to Ubuntu and Python, anyone can create their own chatbot today. This simple project runs directly on your computer — no expensive servers or API connections required.

What We’ll Need

Before we start, prepare the following:

  • A computer with Ubuntu (recommended version 20.04 or higher)
  • Internet connection
  • Python 3 installed
  • The nltk (Natural Language Toolkit) library — for text processing
  • Any text editor or Jupyter Notebook

If you don’t have the nltk library yet, install it easily with:

pip3 install nltk

💻 Creating a Simple Chatbot

Open a new Python file, for example chatbot.py, and paste the following code:

import random
import nltk

# Download necessary data for the first time
nltk.download('punkt')

# Predefined chatbot responses
responses = {
    "hello": ["Hello!", "Hi there!", "Hey!"],
    "how are you": ["I’m fine, thank you!", "Great, and you?"],
    "what can you do": ["I can chat with you.", "I’m a simple chatbot, but I’m learning!"],
    "who created you": ["I was created by Balli!", "I’m the work of a skilled creator."],
    "default": ["Sorry, I don’t understand that yet.", "Can you say it differently?"]
}

# Chatbot logic
def chatbot(question):
    question = question.lower()
    for key in responses.keys():
        if key in question:
            return random.choice(responses[key])
    return random.choice(responses["default"])

print("🤖 Chatbot: Hello, I’m your personal chatbot. Type 'exit' to quit.")

while True:
    user_input = input("You: ")
    if user_input.lower() == "exit":
        print("🤖 Chatbot: Have a great day! 👋")
        break
    reply = chatbot(user_input)
    print("🤖 Chatbot:", reply)

How to Run the Chatbot

In the terminal, navigate to the folder where you saved chatbot.py and type:

python3 chatbot.py

The chatbot will start and respond to basic questions, for example:

💬 “Hello”
💬 “How are you?”
💬 “What can you do?”
💬 “Who created you?”

Type exit to quit.

How to Expand Your Chatbot

Once the basic version works, you can improve the chatbot as you like. Here are some ideas:

  • Add more responses and keywords
  • Connect it to a microphone and speech recognition
  • Save conversation history
  • Integrate it with the OpenAI API to create a smart assistant
  • Teach it to work with a database

How the Chatbot Works

This simple chatbot works by looking for keywords in the text you provide.
For example, if you type “Hello, how are you?”, it detects the word “hello” and responds based on a predefined set of responses.

If you want the chatbot to understand more complex sentences, you can later add natural language processing (NLP).

 

Creating your own chatbot on Ubuntu is surprisingly simple.
All you need is Python, the nltk library, and a few lines of code.

With this project, you’ll learn:

  • How AI communicates with users
  • How to work with text in Python
  • How to gradually build your own intelligent application

Next, you can enhance your chatbot by connecting it to OpenAI — we’ll cover that in the next article.

 

Help:Creating a bot

 

 

 

 

Easy VPN for Linux – no complicated setup

If you don’t want to create your own VPN or you’re struggling to configure everything on Linux, here’s a simple solution. Try a ready-to-use VPN for Linux with a clean graphical interface – fast, secure, and hassle-free.

View deals on Amazon →

Tip: Quick installation, user-friendly GUI, no unnecessary complexity.

Discover What’s New in Linux Mint – Linux News & Updates

Posted on by

What’s New in Linux Mint? Fresh News from the Linux World

Linux Mint news-Welcome to the page dedicated to the latest news from the world of Linux Mint. This distribution has won the hearts of users worldwide thanks to its stability, elegance, and user-friendliness. Here, we regularly gather and update all the fresh news—from the releases of the latest versions and innovations in the Cinnamon desktop environment to tips and tricks that will make your work easier. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new user, here you will find everything you need to know about the development of this great distribution.

What’s New in Linux Mint?

Linux Mint news - Discover what's new in Linux Mint! Regularly updated news, features, and improvements for the popular Linux Mint distribution. Stay informed with the latest from the world of Linux.

Linux-Mint

 

Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” – what’s new and what to watch out for

16 September 2025

On September 4, 2025, a brand-new version of the popular system Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” was released. If you already use Linux Mint, or are considering trying it, you will definitely want to know what this version brings and whether it’s worth upgrading. ▼

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.

Linux Mint news

How to Safely Upgrade to Linux Mint 22.2

16 September 2025

If you are currently running Linux Mint (for example version 22.0 or 22.1), upgrading to the new 22.2 release is quite straightforward. Just follow the steps and nothing should go wrong. ▼

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.

 

This guide will walk you step by step through the installation of Linux Mint – from downloading the ISO file to your first boot. You will also find the latest news and important updates about Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara”.

Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” – What’s New?

On September 4, 2025, the new version Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” was released. Here we highlight the improvements, new features, and potential issues you should be aware of before upgrading.

What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is a user-friendly operating system based on Ubuntu. It is free, stable, and recommended for beginners switching from Windows. It offers a familiar desktop layout, a polished design, and great out-of-the-box usability.

How to Safely Upgrade to Linux Mint 22.2

If you are currently using Linux Mint 22.0 or 22.1, upgrading to Linux Mint 22.2 is straightforward. We provide step-by-step instructions to help you safely back up your data, update your system, and complete the upgrade process.