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What is the Difference Between Ubuntu, Kubuntu, Shubuntu and Edubuntu?

Malcolm Tatum
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Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 23,708
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Ubuntu is a basic computer operating system that is offered as free software. The name for the system is derived from the Zulu word ubuntu, meaning “humanity.” Produced by Canonical LTD, Ubuntu is one of the more user friendly and popular types of Linux distributions. Several slight variations on Ubuntu are currently offered on the market today. Among them are Kubuntu, Shubuntu, and Edubuntu. While sharing many characteristics, there are a few differences between each product.

Kubuntu is a subproject of Ubuntu that is aimed at a particular sector of the consumer market. Like Ubuntu, Kubuntu is a computer operating system. However, the configuration is intended for use in preschool and elementary school environments. Kubuntu is also great for use by children in a home environment. The systems are intentionally made to be fun and thus support the creation of enthusiasm for the learning process. New versions are released regularly, helping to keep the subproject fresh and interesting to the public.

Shubuntu is a common misspelling of another subproject of Ubuntu, more commonly known as Xubuntu. Shubuntu, or more properly, Xubuntu, is also a Linux distribution. Unlike Ubuntu, which makes used of a GNOME desktop environment, Xubuntu goes with an Xfce desktop configuration. Xfce makes use of less system resources to function, and will often be a better option for older computers with less hard drive available. Like Kubuntu, Xubuntu is intended for use with children.

Edubuntu is a also subproject of Ubuntu. Like Shubuntu and Kubuntu, Edubuntu is intended for use in schools and classrooms. However, it targets an older age range of children than the two other subprojects. Edubuntu includes a number of tools that can allow educators to function as the administrator for setting up learning modules in a computer lab environment. Educators do not have to possess extensive computer knowledge in order to use this operating system, although at least some technical know how is helpful. Edubuntu also requires less in the way of resources to operate, which is often helpful in classroom settings where older computer equipment is in use.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including EasyTechJunkie, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
By anon132456 — On Dec 07, 2010

Wow. the comments were more helpful than the article.

By anon93313 — On Jul 03, 2010

Kubuntu is a specialization of Ubuntu which runs a different desktop environment than Ubuntu proper.

By salseeg — On Sep 22, 2008

amount of Google results

- shubuntu - 360 (wisegeek first :) )

- xubuntu - 2 500 000

- kubuntu - 7 100 000

- ubuntu - 88 900 000

so, i doubt that there is such thing like shubuntu

By salseeg — On Sep 22, 2008

there's a difference also in philosophy of each Desktop Environment

- Gnome - as less config options as possible with reasonable defaults

- KDE - as many options as possible

- XFCE - like Gnome but much faster (consumes fewer resources)

By anon17539 — On Sep 01, 2008

The Difference between the flavors are only the used Desktop-Managers.

Ubuntu=Gnome

Kubuntu=KDE

Xubuntu=XFCE

The underlying System stays the same. EduBuntu is the only one specially for kids.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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