What is ubuntu based on

The Debian Foundation

Ubuntu is based on Debian Linux, which is a free and open-source operating system created by Ian Murdock in 1993. Debian is known for its stability, security, and commitment to free software principles. Ubuntu leverages Debian's solid foundation while adding its own user-friendly interface, tools, and customizations. This relationship makes Ubuntu part of the larger Debian ecosystem, benefiting from Debian's extensive software repository and community contributions.

Package Management System

Ubuntu directly inherits Debian's Advanced Package Tool (APT), which is the foundation of its package management system. APT allows users to easily install, update, and remove software packages from repositories. The apt command-line tool and graphical package managers use the same underlying Debian package format (.deb files). This means Ubuntu repositories are compatible with Debian packages, though packages built specifically for Ubuntu may not always work perfectly on Debian systems and vice versa due to dependency differences.

Software Repositories and Community

Ubuntu maintains its own software repositories while maintaining compatibility with Debian repositories. The majority of Ubuntu's available packages come directly from Debian's vast collection of over 70,000 packages. However, Ubuntu includes additional software, drivers, and customizations tailored for broader hardware support and user-friendliness. The Ubuntu community, sponsored by Canonical, provides additional support and contributions beyond Debian's community-driven development model.

Release Strategy and Support

While Debian releases on its own schedule without fixed release dates, Ubuntu follows a structured release cycle with new versions every six months and Long-Term Support (LTS) versions every two years. LTS versions receive security updates and support for five years (desktop) or ten years (server), providing stability for enterprise and professional users. This predictable release schedule differs from Debian's approach but maintains compatibility with Debian's software ecosystem.

User Interface and Desktop Experience

Ubuntu initially gained popularity by emphasizing user-friendliness and modern desktop environments. The official Ubuntu desktop edition uses GNOME, though Debian leaves such choices to individual distributions. Ubuntu includes pre-installed applications, drivers, and codecs that Debian omits for its pure free software commitment. These additions make Ubuntu more accessible to new Linux users while still maintaining Debian's stability and package management foundation.

Philosophical Differences

Debian's philosophy emphasizes absolute adherence to free software principles, excluding proprietary drivers and non-free software by default. Ubuntu takes a more pragmatic approach, including proprietary drivers and multimedia codecs to improve hardware compatibility and user experience out-of-the-box. Despite these differences, Ubuntu respects open-source values and maintains the Debian Social Contract as a foundation for its principles.