Linux is known for being more secure and privacy-friendly than Windows or macOS, but not all Linux distributions (or “distros”) are equal when it comes to protecting your data. If you’re considering a Linux-based operating system and privacy and security are your top concerns, you may be wondering: Is Ubuntu, Linux Mint or Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) the best choice?
In this guide, we’ll compare these three popular Linux distributions from a privacy and security standpoint. We’ll break down their differences, weigh up their advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide which one suits your needs best.
What Are These Linux Distributions?
Before diving into privacy and security, let’s briefly explain what each of these operating systems is.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions, developed by Canonical. It’s known for being user-friendly and widely supported, making it a great choice for beginners.
Linux Mint
Linux Mint is a user-friendly operating system based on Ubuntu. It includes extra features and applications designed to make life easier for those switching from Windows.
Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE)
LMDE is similar to Linux Mint but is based on Debian instead of Ubuntu. Debian is one of the oldest and most respected Linux distributions and is known for its stability.
Why these distributions?
With so many different Linux distributions, you might be wondering why we are looking at just these three. Well, simply that Ubuntu and Linux Mint are among the easiest distributions for people migrating to Linux to get to grips with and are often the first choice for entry into the world of Linux.
Now, let’s compare these three distributions in terms of privacy, security, included applications, software installation, updates, and ease of installation.
Privacy: Which One Protects Your Data Best?
Privacy is all about controlling who has access to your personal information. Some operating systems collect more data than others, and some give users more control over their data.
Ubuntu’s Privacy Concerns
Ubuntu has been criticised for including data collection features by default:
- Ubuntu used to send search queries to Amazon when searching for files on your computer. This was removed in later versions, but it damaged Ubuntu’s reputation.
- Canonical (Ubuntu’s developer) collects some user data by default, including system information and package usage statistics. While this can be disabled, many users feel it should be opt-in, not opt-out.
- Ubuntu Snap packages are centralised and managed by Canonical. Some users worry that Snap packages give Canonical too much control.
Linux Mint: More Privacy-Focused?
Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu but removes some of the privacy concerns:
- No data collection: Unlike Ubuntu, Linux Mint does not collect system information.
- No centralised Snap system: Linux Mint has disabled Snap package support by default, arguing that it gives too much control to Canonical.
- More user control: Since Linux Mint does not push cloud-based services or online search results, it is generally considered more privacy-friendly.
Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE): Even More Privacy-Focused?
Since LMDE is based on Debian, it inherits Debian’s strict privacy policies. Debian does not collect telemetry (usage data) by default, and it gives users complete control over software sources.
However, LMDE still includes some software from Linux Mint, which means it may share some of its weaknesses (such as relying on Firefox, which has its own privacy concerns).
Privacy Winner: Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE)
If you want a Linux distribution that does not collect data and avoids Canonical’s centralised software control, LMDE is the best choice for privacy.
Security: Which One Keeps Your System Safe?
Security is about how well an operating system protects you from viruses, hackers and software vulnerabilities.
Ubuntu’s Security Features
Ubuntu is well-maintained and receives regular security updates. It also includes:
- AppArmor, a tool that limits what applications can do (protecting against malware)
- Automatic security updates by default
- Ubuntu Advantage, an optional paid service that includes extra security tools
However, because Ubuntu uses Snap packages, applications are downloaded from a central server controlled by Canonical. If Canonical’s servers were compromised, this could be a security risk.
Linux Mint’s Security Weaknesses
Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu but does not include all security updates by default. This means it may lag behind Ubuntu when it comes to patching vulnerabilities.
Additionally, Linux Mint has been criticised for ignoring some security warnings. For example, it once disabled an important security update for the BootHole vulnerability because it could cause boot issues.
Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE): More Secure Than Linux Mint?
Since LMDE is based on Debian, it benefits from Debian’s conservative security policies. Debian is known for thorough testing before releasing updates, making it more stable and reliable. However, Debian’s updates are often slower than Ubuntu’s, which could be a problem for security patches.
Security Winner: Ubuntu
If you prioritise security, Ubuntu is the best choice because it receives the fastest security updates and includes extra security tools.
Conclusion: Why Ubuntu Excels in Security and LMDE in Privacy
If you want the best privacy, go for Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE).
- LMDE does not include Canonical’s telemetry or Snap package system, both of which have been privacy concerns for some users.
- Debian, on which LMDE is based, is well-known for its strict privacy policies and transparency.
- LMDE uses Flatpak for additional applications, which is generally considered more privacy-friendly than Snap.
If you want the best security, Ubuntu is the safest choice.
- Ubuntu receives the fastest security updates, meaning critical vulnerabilities are patched sooner.
- Ubuntu includes AppArmor, which helps prevent malware from gaining too much control over your system.
- Since Ubuntu is widely used, it benefits from extensive testing and support.
If you are choosing between Ubuntu-based Linux Mint and Ubuntu, Ubuntu is the better option for security.
- Ubuntu provides faster updates and applies security patches more consistently.
- Linux Mint has been criticised for delaying security patches, sometimes leaving vulnerabilities unpatched for longer periods.
- Ubuntu integrates enterprise-grade security features, while Linux Mint focuses more on ease of use rather than security.
If you want a balance of both privacy and security, Linux Mint is a good middle ground. It is more private than Ubuntu but does not get security updates as quickly.
Ultimately, all three are good choices, and which one is best depends on your priorities.
Whichever you pick, you’ll be using an operating system that is far more secure and privacy-friendly than Windows or macOS!
