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Difference Between Ubuntu and Fedora

Last Updated : 19 Nov, 2025
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Ubuntu and Fedora are two of the most widely used Linux-based operating systems. Both are open source and free to use, but they differ significantly in terms of design philosophy, package management, release cycles, support, and user experience.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a Debian-based Linux distribution developed by Canonical Ltd., led by Mark Shuttleworth. The word Ubuntu comes from an African term meaning “humanity to others.”

  • Free, open source, and beginner-friendly.
  • Widely used in personal computers, servers, and cloud environments.
  • Offers long-term support (LTS) releases for stability.
  • Used in modern technologies like Google’s self-driving car OS and some of the world’s fastest supercomputers.

Fedora

Fedora is a community-driven, open-source Linux distribution developed by the Fedora Project and sponsored by Red Hat (IBM). It focuses on cutting-edge technologies, security, and innovation.

  • Includes the latest software, kernels, and features.
  • Uses DNF package manager and the Anaconda installer.
  • Comes in different variants: Fedora Workstation, Fedora Server, and Fedora Atomic/ CoreOS for cloud workloads.
  • Known for adopting new Linux technologies early.

Ubuntu Vs Fedora Linux

UbuntuFedora
Ubuntu is a Debian-based operating system.Fedora is a community project by Red Hat (RPM-based).
First released in October 2004.First released in November 2003.
Offers easy one-click installation for NVIDIA graphics drivers.Installing NVIDIA drivers can be more complex and requires additional setup.
Uses the Ubiquity installer.Uses the Anaconda installer.
Package managers: APT, dpkg, Snap.Package managers: DNF, RPM, YUM.
Popular apps: LibreOffice, Rhythmbox, Steam, Shotcut, etc.Popular apps: Firefox, LibreOffice, Dolphin, Signal, etc.
Offers strong long-term support (LTS) for up to 5 years.Provides short-term support (about 13 months).
Historically used Unity, now uses GNOME by default.Uses GNOME desktop environment by default.
Has two major community support forums: ubuntuforums.org and askubuntu.com.Uses a central forum: ask.fedoraproject.org.

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