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What is Xenial?

Published in Operating Systems 2 mins read

Xenial is a codename for Ubuntu 16.04 LTS, a long-term support version of the Ubuntu operating system. It was released on April 21, 2016, and received support until April 2021.

Key Features of Xenial:

  • Long-term support: LTS releases receive security updates and bug fixes for a longer period, making them suitable for servers and other critical systems.
  • Kernel 4.4: Xenial shipped with the Linux kernel version 4.4, offering improved performance, security, and hardware support.
  • GNOME 3.18: The default desktop environment was GNOME 3.18, known for its modern design and user-friendly interface.
  • Snap packages: Xenial introduced support for Snap packages, a new package format for easier software installation and updates.

Use Cases:

  • Servers: Xenial's LTS support made it a popular choice for running servers, especially in enterprise environments.
  • Desktops: The user-friendly GNOME desktop environment made Xenial suitable for both home and office use.
  • Internet of Things (IoT): Xenial's long-term support and lightweight nature made it a viable option for embedded systems and IoT devices.

Legacy:

While Xenial is no longer supported, it remains a significant version of Ubuntu. Many systems and devices continue to run it, benefiting from its stability and security updates.