Linux Mint 22 Is a Good Choice for Transitioning from Windows

While options like paying for extended support from Microsoft or upgrading to Windows 11 are available, they may not be practical or preferred by all users.

Linux Mint 22 is a long-term service release, ensuring support until 2029. In contrast to Windows, which has implemented strict system requirements with Windows 11, potentially limiting upgrade options, Linux Mint will continue to work on older hardware even after 2029.

Support for Linux Mint 22 will continue until 2026, after which the focus will shift to Linux Mint 23. Beyond that, version 22 will only receive security updates, with a pathway for transitioning from Linux Mint 22 to 23.

What You’ll Find in Linux Mint 22

Notable changes in Linux Mint 22 comprise of:

• Utilizing the new Ubuntu 24.04 package base.
• Kernel version 6.8.
• Enhanced Software Manager with quicker loading and improved multi-threading.
• Default deactivation of unverified Flatpaks.
• Inclusion of the Matrix Web App for chat networks out of the box.
• Enhanced language support that removes unselected languages post-installation to save disk space.
• Various behind-the-scenes modifications updating libraries and software.

Users new to Linux coming from a Windows background do not need to fret about Linux-specific terms like Flatpaks or Gnome.

Trying out a Live USB version is an excellent method to assess Linux, enabling users to run Linux Mint in memory without making changes to the installed operating system. This allows users to evaluate its functionality, run software, and install applications without risks.

Although switching from Windows to Linux might seem challenging, the process has significantly evolved over the past decade.

Linux Mint 22 can be downloaded from the official project website in three variations:

• Cinnamon – suitable for modern systems.
• Xfce – light on resources but with fewer features.
• Mate – offers a classic desktop environment.

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