For many people, Linux is synonymous with Ubuntu. However, this can lead to missing out on the full potential of the operating system. Here are four reasons why sticking to Ubuntu can limit your understanding and experience of Linux.
Firstly, relying on Ubuntu’s defaults can be limiting. While these defaults may seem harmless, they can actually hinder your ability to customize and optimize your system for specific needs. For instance, Ubuntu 25.10 uses Wayland as its primary display server, which excludes X11 support. This can limit users’ flexibility when it comes to choosing their desktop environment and file system.
Furthermore, learning Ubuntu-specific syntax may not provide the same level of understanding of Linux concepts. Online tutorials often focus on commands that are specific to Ubuntu’s package manager, APT, rather than Linux-specific tools. This can make it difficult for users to adapt to other distributions or troubleshoot issues with their systems.
Additionally, relying on Snap packages can lead to bloat and performance issues. While snaps were designed to solve the problem of packaging different apps for various distros, they have their own set of problems, including larger storage requirements and slower loading times compared to traditional packages.
Lastly, Ubuntu’s connection to Canonical, a for-profit company, may seem at odds with the principles of free and open-source software. While Ubuntu itself is free, Canonical’s motivations can sometimes put its users’ interests at risk, such as during the Amazon search integration scandal in 2012-2016. This highlights the importance of being aware of the companies behind our operating systems and taking steps to protect our freedom and autonomy.
By questioning defaults, trying new distros, and learning Linux-specific concepts, users can break free from the limitations of Ubuntu and unlock a deeper understanding of the world of Linux.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/if-you-only-use-ubuntu-you-are-missing-out-on-what-linux-is-all-about