I was knee-deep in virtualization tech for over a decade now, from VMware’s latest releases to backup solutions like Veeam and Nakivo. But every once in a while, I like to step back and explore something a bit different – like lightweight operating systems that can run efficiently in virtual machines or on an old laptop. Nothing more makes me angry that having old laptops being decommissioned because of non-compatibility with Windows 11.
That’s where Linux Lite comes in. I’ve covered tools like Xormon for monitoring IT infrastructure, and Proxmox as a VMware alternative, but Linux Lite caught my eye as a simple, fast OS that’s perfect for testing environments or even as a daily driver for non-demanding tasks. It is rock solid and very fast distro which is optimized for getting the most out of an older hardware. Compared to Deepin which I covered in my last article, it is way faster. For Deepin, you need a bit beefier hardware to feel comfortable. Linux Lite is really for older, unused laptops/desktops or a virtual machine and the speed of execution is fabulous.
In this blog post, I’ll dive deep into Linux Lite 7.8, the latest version as of early 2026. We’ll cover its history, key features, system requirements, installation process, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other popular distros. If you’re a Windows refugee looking for an alternative, or a virtualization admin wanting a lean guest OS, this might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for. Let’s break it down.
What is Linux Lite?
Linux Lite is a free, open-source Linux distribution designed with simplicity and performance in mind. It’s built on top of Ubuntu’s Long-Term Support (LTS) releases, which means it inherits the stability and vast software repository of one of the most popular Linux distros out there. But where Ubuntu can sometimes feel bloated, especially on older hardware, Linux Lite strips things down to essentials while keeping a user-friendly interface.
The project is led by Jerry Bezencon and a small team of developers, aiming to make Linux accessible to everyone – from beginners switching from Windows to experienced users who want a no-fuss setup.
It’s particularly liked by users for its ability to run smoothly on low-spec machines, making it ideal for reviving old PCs or running in resource-constrained virtual environments.
I first stumbled upon Linux Lite while testing lightweight distros for VMware VMs. Too many times, I’ve seen full-fat Ubuntu chug along in a virtual machine with limited RAM, but Linux Lite felt snappy right out of the box. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel; it’s just making the wheel roll faster and smoother.
A Brief History of Linux Lite
Linux Lite has been around since 2012, starting as a fork of Ubuntu with the goal of creating a “lite” version that’s easy to use and light on resources. The first release was version 1.0, codenamed “Amethyst,” and it quickly gained a following among users frustrated with Windows’ bloat or the complexity of other Linux distros.
Over the years, it has stuck to Ubuntu’s LTS cycle, ensuring long-term support and security updates. By 2026, we’re at version 7.8, which is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.
This latest release includes rewrites to many of Linux Lite’s custom utilities, improving stability and user experience. It’s a minor update from 7.6, focusing on bug fixes, LTS updates, code optimizations, and GUI tweaks, along with newer versions of apps like LibreOffice.
The distro has built a solid community, with active forums, a built-in help manual, and even a Discord server for support. Stats from the official site show over 18 million downloads, which speaks to its popularity among everyday users and educators.
Key Features of Linux Lite 7.8
What sets Linux Lite apart? It’s all about balance – powerful enough for daily tasks but lightweight enough not to overwhelm your hardware. Here’s a rundown of the standout features:
- XFCE Desktop Environment: Linux Lite uses XFCE, a lightweight desktop that’s customizable and intuitive. It looks and feels a bit like Windows, with a start menu, taskbar, and familiar layout, making the transition easy for newcomers. It’s a bit less polished, but hey, you must choose – old hardware with acceptable speed or more polished UI but slower.
- Optimized for Speed: Everything is tuned for performance. Boot times are quick, and it runs efficiently on older CPUs and limited RAM. I’ve tested it on a 10-year-old laptop, and it was remarkably responsive compared to Windows 10 on the same machine.
- Built-in Tools and Utilities: Linux Lite comes with custom apps like Lite Welcome (a setup wizard), Lite Updates (for easy patching), and Lite Tweaks (for system optimization). These make maintenance a breeze without diving into the terminal.
- Software Selection: Pre-installed apps include Firefox (or Chrome if you prefer), LibreOffice for productivity, VLC for media, and Thunderbird for email. The Ubuntu repositories give you access to thousands more via the Synaptic Package Manager.
Click the Settings > Lite Software > Install Software and pick the software you want to install.
And then you can add/remove the software you want. Out of the box, there is the LibreOffice pre-installed, but then again, it’s up to you to pick the OpenOffice or other software you need.
- Security and Stability: Regular security updates from Ubuntu, plus built-in firewall (needs to be activated, as by default it is OFF!) and easy encryption options during install. It’s stable for long sessions, which is great for virtualization labs where you need reliable guest OSes.
- Modern Look with Low Overhead: The default theme is clean and modern, but you can tweak it easily. It supports multiple monitors and high-res displays without hogging resources.
In my experience, the developer-friendly aspects shine through – essential tools for coding and system management are there, but without the clutter. For virtualization pros, it’s a great choice for nesting VMs or testing scripts in a controlled environment.
System Requirements: Keeping It Lite
One of Linux Lite’s biggest selling points is its modest hardware needs. According to the official site, the minimum specs are:
- Processor: 1.5 GHz Dual-Core
- RAM: 4 GB
- Storage: 40 GB HDD/SSD/NVMe
- Display: VGA, DVI, DP, or HDMI capable of 1366×768 resolution
Compare that to Ubuntu’s 4 GB minimum (but realistically more for smooth operation) or Windows 11’s 4 GB plus TPM requirements, and you see why it’s a favorite for older hardware. I’ve run it on machines with just 2 GB RAM in a pinch, though 4 GB is ideal for multitasking.
For virtualization, this means you can allocate minimal resources to a Linux Lite VM – say, 2 vCPUs and 2 GB RAM – and still get great performance. Perfect for homelabs or cloud instances where every core counts.
Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing Linux Lite is straightforward, even for beginners. I recently set it up in a VMware Workstation VM to test, and it took under 20 minutes. Here’s a quick guide:
1. Download the ISO: Head to the official site and grab the latest 64-bit ISO (around 2 GB). Verify the checksum for security.
2. Create Bootable Media: Use tools like Rufus or Etcher to make a USB drive, or mount the ISO in your hypervisor.
3. Boot and Start Install: Boot from the media. You’ll see a live session – try it out before committing.
4. Language and Setup: Choose your language, then hit “Install Linux Lite.” The installer is graphical and user-friendly.
5. Installation Type: Options include erasing the disk, installing alongside another OS, or manual partitioning. For dual-boot with Windows, select “alongside.”
6. User Details: Set up your username, password, and time zone. Enable auto-login if desired.
7. Complete and Reboot: The install copies files, then reboots into your new system. Post-install, run Lite Updates to grab the latest patches.
The whole process is intuitive, with clear warnings about data loss. If you’re in a virtual environment, enable EFI boot for modern features. Common pitfalls? Ensure your BIOS is set to boot from USB, and back up data first.
Pros and Cons:
Is It Right for You? Like any OS, Linux Lite has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and fast, even on old hardware.
- Beginner-friendly with Windows-like interface and helpful tools.
- Free forever, with strong community support (forums have over 91 million views).
- Great for education, development, or as a VM guest.
- Regular updates without forcing major changes.
Cons:
- Some users find it “too dumbed down” – limited advanced options out of the box.
- Relies on Ubuntu’s ecosystem, so if you hate apt, this isn’t for you.
- No official ARM support yet, limiting it to x86/64.
- Custom utilities are great, but power users might prefer more configurable distros like Arch.
In my tests, the pros far outweigh the cons for its target audience. If you’re coming from Windows, it’s a soft landing.
Comparisons to Other Distros, how does Linux Lite stack up?
- Vs. Ubuntu: Ubuntu is more feature-rich but heavier. Linux Lite is Ubuntu “lite” – same base, less bloat. Ideal if Ubuntu feels sluggish.
- vs. Linux Mint: Mint is also user-friendly with Cinnamon desktop. Linux Lite is lighter on resources, better for very old PCs, but Mint has more polish.
- Vs. Zorin OS Lite: Similar lightweight focus, but Zorin mimics Windows more closely. Linux Lite edges out in speed, Zorin in aesthetics.
- Vs. Xubuntu: Both use XFCE, but Linux Lite adds custom tools and optimizations. Xubuntu is purer Ubuntu, Linux Lite more streamlined.
For virtualization, I’d pick Linux Lite over these for minimal footprint in VMs.
Community and Support
Linux Lite’s community is active and welcoming. The forums are a goldmine for troubleshooting, with sections for hardware, software, and general chat. There’s a built-in Help Manual that’s comprehensive, covering everything from installs to tweaks.
If you need real-time help, join the Discord server. With 10,500 social media followers, you’re never alone.
Final Thoughts
Linux Lite 7.8 isn’t flashy, but that’s its strength. In a world of bloated OSes, it’s a breath of fresh air for older hardware, beginners, and virtualization setups. Whether you’re ditching Windows, testing in a VM, or just want something simple, give it a spin. I’ve installed it on an old ThinkPad, and it’s transformed it into a productive machine. If you’ve tried Linux Lite, share your experiences in the comments.
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