Ubuntu, Linux’s Newest OS, Will Be Supported Long-Term
Microsoft and Apple may be the heavy hitters among OSs, but Linux isn’t far behind. Its Ubuntu system comes preinstalled on laptops from Dell and ASUS, and the latest long-term support version, Ubuntu 18.04 Linux, was released just last year. It will be supported through 2023, so it’s a great option for companies looking for a system with a longer life span.
Users should make sure that any minor updates to their current version of Ubuntu have been made to ensure the smoothest transition when the latest version is deployed. As with Windows and Mac OS upgrades, it’s important to back up everything before updating, and stop as many noncritical services as possible.
If upgrading from an older Ubuntu version, the process is simple: Go into system preferences and follow the instructions. Perform the update when time allows so it can run through the process without interruptions, and be sure to reboot the computer afterwards.
What to Do Before Updating Chrome OS
Organizations that use Chromebooks are familiar with Chrome OS. Businesses that are considering making the switch to Chromebooks may want to start with Google Enterprise, which allows users to preconfigure devices and employee accounts for Chrome OS ahead of time. Policies will then be automatically adapted when users log on to their Chromebook or Chromebox.
One great thing about updating Chrome OS: Once it’s been deployed, updates happen automatically. There are no notifications or threats to reboot, but rather a small icon in the corner that lets the user know that the upgrade is available and will take effect at the next restart. This is helpful, because Chrome upgrades are frequent — every two to three weeks.
Chrome OS also operates in three channels: a stable channel, a beta channel, and a developers channel. Before making the migration, organizations can let users work in the beta channel to test out the operating system and learn how it works. Once deployed, users can choose to stay in the well-tested stable channel, or work in the beta or dev channels to try the operating system’s newest offerings.