s about Linux updates
s about Linux updates
I've tried different Linux distros but haven't experienced a major transition. Can you explain how regular versions are updated and what rolling release actually involves? I'm not entirely sure if my understanding is correct. I've looked up some information online, but I want to make sure I grasp it properly. Are regular releases updated automatically through the built-in updater, or do you need to manually install the latest ISO? Also, how long does it take for major updates to occur? I'm most comfortable with Kubuntu/Ubuntu as an example. Additionally, I have questions about rolling releases. From what I understand, these distros only provide major version ISO updates for new installations, but they update directly via the built-in updater without a distinct "big release" period. All changes are treated as regular updates—whether security patches, minor fixes, or major OS changes. If you're familiar with Manjaro, that would be helpful as an example.
The outcome differs based on each distribution's setup. Rolling release systems avoid strict, sequential updates; once installed, a full update will sync your packages with the newest available versions. Using a rolling distro ensures you always have the most recent packages. Fixed release setups (such as Ubuntu) usually only upgrade essential components like the kernel to the latest available fix for that version. This can change slightly depending on individual packages, as new versions might be added post-release. Upgrading to a newer release often needs a dedicated method and won’t happen automatically through regular updates—though it rarely means reinstalling the whole system, which can be useful if you depend on particular versions or want stability with certain software.
I used several distributions (Lubuntu, Mint, ZorinOS, FerenOS, etc.) each with its own built-in updater that alerts you about available updates and usually manages them automatically, much like Windows Update. Sometimes it prompts you to restart your computer for the process to finish. Large version upgrades differ between distros—for example, on LXDE Lubuntu you could smoothly upgrade from 17.04 to 18.04 using the updater, but once it moved to LXQT you had to install a new ISO and start over due to the bigger change. Linux Mint Mate allows major feature updates directly through the updater, though it strongly advises taking snapshots or backups beforehand because the update is more disruptive. TLDR: the experience varies widely across different distros.