Linux desktop
Linux desktop provides a fully maintained GNU/Linux operating system, which includes a wide range of supported applications for teaching and research. It can be used on PCs and shared servers, in offices, research labs and classrooms.
Key features
- Built on Ubuntu LTS and each release is supported for up to five years from release.
- Includes core scientific and programming applications.
- Receives regular security updates.
- Can be installed as either single or dual boot on managed PCs.
- Compatible with the Central Linux service and Viking, helping you extend your code onto larger and faster computing facilities.
Access instructions
Linux operating systems are available on:
- PCs in our computer labs and spaces
- some departmental PCs
- some office PCs (restricted to staff and research graduates).
You might need to switch your PC from Windows to Linux.
- By arrangement, we can provide supported Linux desktop features using Windows subsystem for Linux (WSL) or virtual machines.
- To request Linux on a managed device, please contact IT Services.
Available to students and staff (restrictions apply)
Students and staff can use this service on University-managed devices.
Desktop based
Compatible with most recommended PCs and servers, purchased via IT Services.
Free to use
This service is free to use.
Additional information
Ubuntu LTS is installed as dual boot with Windows in the following locations:
- LFA/015
- B/R/012
- G/N/169
- A/EW/004
- RCH/101 and 201
Some departments have compatible PCs in their IT classrooms and staff offices. To find out more, please speak to your course administrator or Departmental Computer Officer (DCO).
- Departments and research groups may add their own software or resources to the standard build.
- Departmental Computing Officers and other authorised staff have administrative access to the PCs for user support and service enhancement.
- Students can make a software request via their Departmental Computer Officer.
Access instructions
Linux operating systems are available on:
- PCs in our computer labs and spaces
- some departmental PCs
- some office PCs (restricted to staff and research graduates).
You might need to switch your PC from Windows to Linux.
- By arrangement, we can provide supported Linux desktop features using Windows subsystem for Linux (WSL) or virtual machines.
- To request Linux on a managed device, please contact IT Services.
Guides and help
How-to guides and set up
- Switching from Windows to Linux:
- If your PC has both Linux and Windows but is currently running Windows, restart it by clicking the power button icon at the bottom-right of the logon screen. (You might need to press escape or click the mouse to see this icon.)
- After restarting, you'll be asked to choose an operating system. Use the arrow keys to select the one you want, and press enter.
- Linux managed desktop: get started and frequently asked questions
Contact for support
If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.
Service commitments
The following policies apply to all IT services provided by the University.
Availability
- This is a live service, available 24/7.
Support
- This service is managed by IT Services.
- We are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults.
- Support is available during our opening hours.
Standards
- Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers, and we monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.
- Service owners carry out an internal review in line with new releases of Ubuntu LTS. This is typically every two years.
We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.
Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024