This page serves as your comprehensive guide to downloading Ubuntu Linux, providing access to all versions, flavors, and editions. Whether you’re looking for the latest LTS release, a specific Ubuntu flavor, or need guidance on choosing the right version, you’ll find everything you need here.
In this guide you will learn:
- How to choose the right Ubuntu version for your needs
- Understanding Ubuntu’s release cycle and support timeline
- Differences between LTS and interim releases
- Overview of all Ubuntu flavors and editions
- System requirements and installation basics
| Category | Requirements, Specifications or Information |
|---|---|
| Minimum RAM | 4 GB (Desktop), 512 MB (Server) |
| Recommended RAM | 8 GB or more for Desktop |
| Storage Space | 25 GB minimum, 50 GB recommended |
| Processor | 2 GHz dual-core processor (64-bit x86 or ARM) |
| Current LTS | Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (Resolute Raccoon) – Supported until April 2031 |
| Download Methods | Direct download, BitTorrent, or local mirrors |
Ubuntu Release Timeline – Interactive Overview
View all Ubuntu releases and their support lifecycles at a glance. This interactive timeline shows current support status, maintenance phases, and end-of-life dates for all Ubuntu versions.
Download Ubuntu – Choose Your Version
Ubuntu offers Long Term Support (LTS) releases every two years in April, with five years of free security and maintenance updates for the main editions (official flavors receive three years). Interim releases arrive every six months with the latest features but shorter 9-month support periods.
WHICH VERSION SHOULD I CHOOSE?
New users and production systems: Choose Ubuntu 26.04 LTS for the best balance of modern features and long-term stability. Developers and enthusiasts: Consider interim releases for the latest packages and kernel (Ubuntu 26.10 “Stonking Stingray” arrives October 15, 2026). Existing deployments: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and 22.04 LTS remain fully supported and battle-tested.
Ubuntu Official Downloads – Quick Access Table
Direct ISO downloads and BitTorrent links for all current Ubuntu releases. Updated: July 2026
| Release | Support Period | Download Links |
|---|---|---|
| Current Release | ||
|
Ubuntu 26.04 LTSCURRENT / LATEST LTS Resolute Raccoon |
Released: April 23, 2026 Standard: Until April 2031 Ubuntu Pro: Until 2036 Legacy Support: Until 2038 (12 years total) |
Desktop ISO Desktop Torrent Server ISO Server Torrent All Flavors |
| Upcoming Interim Release | ||
|
Ubuntu 26.10IN DEVELOPMENT Stonking Stingray |
Expected release: October 15, 2026 Support: 9 months (Interim release) Not yet in beta as of this writing |
Daily Builds |
| Long Term Support (LTS) Releases | ||
|
Ubuntu 24.04.4 LTSLTS Noble Numbat |
Released: April 2024 Standard: Until April 2029 ESM: Until 2034 Legacy: Until 2036 (12 years total) |
Desktop ISO Desktop Torrent Server ISO Server Torrent All Flavors |
|
Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTSLTS Jammy Jellyfish |
Released: April 2022 Standard: Until April 2027 ESM: Until 2032 Stable production release |
Desktop ISO Desktop Torrent Server ISO Server Torrent All Flavors |
|
Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTSESM ONLY Focal Fossa |
Released: April 2020 Standard support ended: May 31, 2025 Ubuntu Pro / ESM: Until 2030 Free downloads still available; security updates now require Ubuntu Pro |
Desktop ISO Desktop Torrent Server ISO Server Torrent ESM Info |
| Official Ubuntu Flavors (Latest Versions) | ||
|
Official Flavors Desktop Environments |
Available for: All current releases (3 years of support each) Choose your preferred desktop environment |
Kubuntu (KDE) Xubuntu (Xfce) Lubuntu (LXQt) Ubuntu MATE Ubuntu Studio Ubuntu Budgie Ubuntu Cinnamon |
NOTE ON UBUNTU MATE
As of this writing, Ubuntu MATE has not yet published a 26.04 build — its latest release remains 24.04.4 LTS. Check the Ubuntu MATE download page for updates.
Ubuntu Editions – Choose Your Platform
Ubuntu is available in multiple editions optimized for different use cases, from personal desktops to enterprise servers and IoT devices.
Primary Editions
- Ubuntu Desktop: Full-featured desktop environment with GNOME
Perfect for: Personal computers, laptops, workstations
Includes the complete GNOME desktop environment (GNOME 50 on Wayland in 26.04), productivity applications, multimedia support, and thousands of applications available through the Ubuntu Software Center. Features include the App Center, Firmware Updater, and extensive hardware compatibility.- https://ubuntu.com/desktop – Desktop overview and features
- https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop – Download Desktop edition
- Ubuntu Server: Optimized for cloud and data center deployments
Perfect for: Web servers, databases, containers, virtual machines
Minimal installation without GUI, optimized for performance and security. Includes tools for cloud deployments, container orchestration, and enterprise features. Certified on all major public clouds including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.- https://ubuntu.com/server – Server overview
- https://ubuntu.com/download/server – Download Server edition
- Ubuntu Core: Minimal footprint for IoT and embedded systems
Perfect for: IoT devices, robotics, digital signage, edge computing
Ultra-reliable, minimal Ubuntu for embedded and IoT devices. Features transactional updates, enhanced security with full disk encryption, and application confinement. Ideal for devices that require unattended, reliable operation. Note: Ubuntu Core is versioned independently from the desktop/server LTS releases — the current line is Ubuntu Core 26.- https://ubuntu.com/core – Core overview and features
- https://ubuntu.com/download/core – Download Core images
- https://ubuntu.com/internet-of-things – IoT solutions overview
- Ubuntu Cloud Images: Pre-configured for cloud platforms
Perfect for: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, OpenStack deployments
Optimized images for major cloud providers with cloud-init pre-configured. Includes the latest security updates and cloud-specific optimizations. Available for both LTS and interim releases.- https://ubuntu.com/download/cloud – Cloud download options
- https://cloud-images.ubuntu.com – Official cloud images repository
- https://ubuntu.com/cloud/public-cloud/docs/ – Cloud documentation
Official Ubuntu Flavors
Ubuntu flavors are official derivatives featuring different desktop environments while maintaining the same Ubuntu base, repositories, and release cycle. Each flavor caters to specific preferences and hardware requirements, and each release receives three years of official support.
Desktop Environment Alternatives
| Flavor | Desktop Environment | Best For | RAM Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kubuntu | KDE Plasma | Power users wanting customization | 4 GB minimum |
| Xubuntu | Xfce | Older hardware, lightweight needs | 2 GB minimum |
| Lubuntu | LXQt | Very old or low-spec hardware | 1 GB minimum |
| Ubuntu MATE | MATE | Traditional desktop layout fans | 2 GB minimum |
| Ubuntu Budgie | Budgie | Modern, elegant desktop experience | 4 GB minimum |
| Ubuntu Studio | KDE Plasma | Creative professionals, multimedia | 8 GB recommended |
| Ubuntu Cinnamon | Cinnamon | Linux Mint-like experience | 4 GB minimum |
FLAVOR SELECTION TIP
All Ubuntu flavors share the same package repositories and receive updates simultaneously. The main difference is the desktop environment and pre-installed applications. You can install any flavor’s desktop environment on standard Ubuntu if you want to try multiple options.
Understanding Ubuntu Support Lifecycle
Ubuntu’s support model ensures long-term stability for production deployments while offering cutting-edge features through interim releases.
LTS vs Interim Releases
- LTS (Long Term Support) Releases: Enterprise-grade stability
Released: Every 2 years in April | Support: 5 years standard (main editions), up to 12 years total
LTS releases receive 5 years of free security updates for packages in the ‘Main’ repository for Ubuntu Desktop, Server, Cloud, WSL, and Core. Official flavors (Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Lubuntu, etc.) receive 3 years of support. With Ubuntu Pro (free for personal use on up to 5 machines), coverage for the main editions extends to 10 years including the ‘Universe’ repository. Legacy Support adds an additional 2 years for a total of 12 years.
- Interim Releases: Latest features and packages
Released: Every 6 months | Support: 9 months
Interim releases introduce new capabilities, updated toolchains, and serve as testing grounds for features that will appear in the next LTS. Popular among developers who need the latest compilers, libraries, and kernels.
Ubuntu Pro and Extended Support
| Support Type | Duration | Coverage | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Support | 5 years (main editions), 3 years (flavors) | Main repository only | Free |
| Ubuntu Pro | 10 years | Main + Universe repositories | Free (personal, up to 5 machines) |
| Legacy Support | +2 years (12 total) | Extended maintenance | Paid add-on to Ubuntu Pro |
Download Methods and Verification
Ubuntu can be downloaded through multiple methods depending on your internet connection and requirements.
Download Options
- Direct Download: Fastest for stable connections
Best for users with reliable, fast internet connections. Downloads the complete ISO file directly from Ubuntu’s servers or CDN. Typical download sizes range from 2.5 GB to 6.5 GB for desktop editions.- https://releases.ubuntu.com – Official release server
- https://ubuntu.com/download – Main download page
- BitTorrent: Efficient for slower connections
BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer download network that sometimes enables higher download speeds and more reliable downloads of large files. Recommended for slower connections or when downloading multiple ISOs. Helps reduce server load and can resume interrupted downloads.- https://ubuntu.com/download/alternative-downloads – Torrent files and alternative options
- Local Mirrors: Regional alternatives
Ubuntu maintains mirrors worldwide for faster regional downloads. There are 443 mirrors registered for Ubuntu. Select a mirror close to your location for improved download speeds. Useful during high-traffic periods following new releases.- https://launchpad.net/ubuntu/+cdmirrors – CD/ISO image mirrors
- https://launchpad.net/ubuntu/+archivemirrors – Package archive mirrors
Verification Steps
SECURITY NOTICE
Always verify downloaded ISO files before installation to ensure they haven’t been tampered with or corrupted during download. This is especially important when downloading from mirrors or torrents.
Note: This is an example for Ubuntu 26.04. Readers should adjust the version numbers and filenames to match their specific ISO download. Release pages for all Ubuntu downloads image versions.
- Download checksums and signature: Get verification files
$ wget -q https://releases.ubuntu.com/26.04/SHA256SUMS $ wget -q https://releases.ubuntu.com/26.04/SHA256SUMS.gpg
Download both SHA256SUMS and SHA256SUMS.gpg files from the same directory as your ISO.
- Import Ubuntu signing key: Get the official key
$ gpg --keyid-format long --keyserver hkp://keyserver.ubuntu.com --recv-keys 0x843938DF228D22F7B3742BC0D94AA3F0EFE21092
Import Ubuntu CD Image Automatic Signing Key (2012).
- Verify authenticity: Check GPG signature
$ gpg --verify SHA256SUMS.gpg SHA256SUMS
Confirms the SHA256SUMS file is authentic and from Ubuntu. Look for “Good signature” in the output.
- Verify integrity: Check ISO hash
$ sha256sum -c SHA256SUMS 2>/dev/null | grep ubuntu-26.04-desktop-amd64.iso
Should output “ubuntu-26.04-desktop-amd64.iso: OK” if the hash matches.
Entire verification process of downloaded Ubuntu ISO image.
System Requirements
Before downloading Ubuntu, ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for your chosen edition.
Ubuntu Desktop Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended | Optimal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | 2 GHz dual-core | 2 GHz quad-core | Modern multi-core CPU |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB or more |
| Storage | 25 GB | 50 GB | 100 GB SSD |
| Display | 1024×768 | 1920×1080 | 4K supported |
| Graphics | 256 MB | 512 MB | Dedicated GPU |
Ubuntu Server Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz | 2 GHz or faster |
| RAM | 512 MB | 2 GB or more |
| Storage | 2.5 GB | 10 GB or more |
| Network | Ethernet recommended | Gigabit Ethernet |
Installation Media Creation
After downloading your chosen Ubuntu ISO, you’ll need to create installation media.
Creating Bootable USB
- On Windows: Use Rufus or balenaEtcher
Download from: rufus.ie or balena.io/etcher
Both tools provide simple interfaces for creating bootable USB drives. Rufus offers more advanced options while Etcher provides a simpler three-step process.
- On Linux: Use dd command or GNOME Disks
$ sudo dd if=ubuntu.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress
Replace /dev/sdX with your USB device. GNOME Disks provides a graphical alternative with “Restore Disk Image” option.
- On macOS: Use balenaEtcher or dd command
$ sudo dd if=ubuntu.iso of=/dev/rdiskN bs=1m
balenaEtcher provides the easiest method on macOS with automatic drive selection and verification.
Quick Decision Guide
Not sure which Ubuntu to download? Use this quick guide to find your perfect match:
FOR NEW USERS
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Desktop – Start with the latest LTS release featuring GNOME 50 on Wayland. It offers the best balance of modern features, stability, and long-term support. Perfect for users transitioning from Windows or macOS.
FOR SERVERS AND CLOUD
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Server or 26.04 LTS Server – Both are excellent choices. 24.04 is battle-tested in production, while 26.04 offers the latest features and the longest remaining support window. Choose based on your testing and certification requirements.
FOR OLDER HARDWARE
Xubuntu or Lubuntu – These lightweight flavors run smoothly on older computers with limited RAM and processing power. Lubuntu is the lightest option, while Xubuntu offers more features with modest requirements.
FOR DEVELOPERS
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS or Latest Interim Release – LTS for stability, or interim releases for the latest development tools, compilers, and libraries once 26.10 lands in October 2026. Developers often run interim releases in VMs or containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ubuntu really free?
Yes, Ubuntu is completely free to download, use, and distribute. There are no licensing fees, even for commercial use. Optional paid support is available through Ubuntu Pro for enterprises.
Can I upgrade between versions?
Yes, Ubuntu supports direct upgrades between consecutive releases and from one LTS to the next LTS. The Update Manager will notify you when upgrades are available.
Which architecture should I download?
Most modern computers use AMD64 (also called x86_64), even Intel processors. ARM versions are available for Raspberry Pi and other ARM-based devices.
How often should I reinstall Ubuntu?
Unlike some operating systems, Ubuntu doesn’t require periodic reinstallation. You can upgrade continuously through the Update Manager. Many users run the same installation for years, upgrading through multiple releases.
Can I try Ubuntu without installing?
Yes, all desktop ISOs include a “Try Ubuntu” option that runs from the USB drive without modifying your hard drive. This lets you test hardware compatibility and explore the interface before committing to installation.
Additional Resources
- Official Documentation: help.ubuntu.com
- Community Support: Ask Ubuntu
- Release Notes: Ubuntu Wiki – Releases
- Ubuntu Pro Information: ubuntu.com/pro
- Hardware Certification: Ubuntu Certified Hardware
Conclusion
Ubuntu continues to be the world’s most popular Linux distribution, powering everything from personal laptops to the world’s fastest supercomputers. With its predictable release cycle, long-term support options, and diverse flavor ecosystem, there’s an Ubuntu for every use case.
Whether you’re taking your first steps into Linux, deploying enterprise infrastructure, or building the next generation of IoT devices, Ubuntu provides a solid, secure, and innovative platform for your journey. Choose your version from our comprehensive download pages and join millions of users worldwide who trust Ubuntu for their computing needs.
Remember to always verify your downloads, choose the appropriate edition for your needs, and take advantage of the extensive documentation and community support available. Welcome to Ubuntu!
