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.
Additional information
Locations of Linux PCs
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).
Requesting additional software
- 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.