What Does Ubuntu LTS Mean

If you are also someone who is between Ubuntu’s LTS and non-LTS versions and not able to decide which one fits you the most, you do not need to worry.

Here in this blog, you will learn what Ubuntu LTS mean, why it is important, and most importantly, how you can choose between the two equivalently seeming versions.

Sometimes, it becomes very difficult to manage your web server, especially while you are choosing the right operating system.

There are multiple Linux options available in the market, so it might be difficult for you to decide which one to choose. Among all these versions, Ubuntu LTS is one of them.

Read the blog to get a clear understanding of what to choose according to your needs and objectives.

What does Ubuntu LTS Mean?

The moment you visit the official website of Ubuntu, you will get to see either of two options: LTS and non-LTS versions. LTS stands for Long Term Support, which means that these versions generally get five years of security updates along with maintenance.

Then, you can either upgrade or buy Ubuntu Pro to get an extra five years of support, along with the option to avail it for more than two years through Legacy Support, which adds up to 12 years in total.

Using the non-LTS version, you can only get 9 months of support. Also, Ubuntu releases its new versions every six months, whereas the LTS versions are released every two years, and the years are even numbered in April.

For example, the LTS version of Ubuntu 24.04 was launched in April 2024, whereas the non-LTS version of Ubuntu 24.10 was released in October 2024.

However, it is always better to use the LTS versions for servers and systems where you need long-term stability.

Why Choose Ubuntu LTS?

While selecting a Linux distribution for the production servers, always focus on the stability, security, and reliable support that the version delivers.

Although around 40% of the web servers are running on Linux machines, selecting the most trustworthy one is quite difficult. Debian-based Ubuntu controls almost half of all the Linux web servers.

Also, together, they make up over two-thirds of the total Linux server market. Ubuntu LTS or Long Term Support has become one of the greatest choices because of the features and the facilities that it offers to its users, such as regular updates, long-term support, and strong and enhanced security, which makes it perfect for any production environment.

What are the benefits of Ubuntu LTS?

Ubuntu LTS, also called Long Term Support, is a release that is designed to offer its users not only a stable but also a secure experience, specifically if you are someone who requires a reliable system.

You also get regular security updates along with bug fixes for five years, which means they can serve you for a longer period.

One of the best reasons to choose the LTS version is that there are three interim releases between each LTS version to test out the updates to existing software.

The interim releases involve newer software that gets tested before it starts making its way into the next version of LTS. This also makes sure that when the updates call it an LTS release, they will not issue any problems.

However, you need to be aware that the software that is released in LTS might not always be the latest one, but it is generally more stable.

Also, the interim releases introduce some new features and modifications to the operating system. The updates are always tested in interim releases before they are added to the next LTS version.

That means that LTS users can avoid any of the features that might cause issues in the future. However, the focus for LTS has always been on stability.

Also, choosing LTS over non-LTS allows the users to stick to one version for five consecutive years. This can be very handy for business owners or anyone who requires a dependable and secure system.

Should you Choose Ubuntu LTS?

Ubuntu LTS versions are usually one of the best choices if you run your business or have working computers or servers because they offer you stability and regular security updates for much longer.

If you’re someone wondering how to start using Ubuntu on your personal computer or laptop, you might get confused between the LTS and the non-LTS versions. Specifically when the non-LTS releases are often related to having personal desktops.

You need to first understand the objectives of releasing both versions. The non-LTS releases are generally aimed at tech enthusiasts who are eager to try out the latest software and features.

These users are most probably the ones running Ubuntu on their personal computers. However, some users typically like customizing their systems and prefer the stability that comes with the LTS versions. If you are one of those users who like to personalize your PC, you can go for the LTS version.

For suppose, if you customize your Ubuntu with GNOME extensions and themes to modify the way your system looks or works, the customizations might break when you try to upgrade to a new non-LTS version, which will make you redo your changes every six months, which you probably don’t like.

However, with an LTS release, you can relax since your customizations stay intact for at least five years, which makes it easier to avoid reconfiguring your system every time.

In case you are using the default GNOME setup and mostly running Snap apps, a non-LTS release might better fit you. Also, the non-LTS upgrades tend to be smoother and less likely to break things, and on top of that, you will get access to new features every six months.

Conclusion

To sum it up, the Ubuntu LTS or the Long Term Support versions are the perfect choice for anyone who needs to have a stable and secure system along with long-term support.

Unlike the non-LTS releases, which are only updated for nine months, the LTS versions are supported for five consecutive years, with additional security patches as well as bug fixes for the entire time. This also makes LTS the ideal choice for businesses, servers, and systems where you require consistent performance and security.

With Ubuntu LTS you get to have a long support cycle. Also, between every LTS release, three interim versions test the new updates further. This means when the new software finally reaches an LTS version, it is thoroughly checked, which reduces the chances of having any kind of future problems.

Also, the software having LTS versions might not be the latest ones but is generally more stable and secure, making it reliable for you. But if you like to have the latest features and do not mind more frequent updates or potential changes, a non-LTS release might be better for you.

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