Ubuntu 18.04 LTS

Basic information

Canonical Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, codenamed "Bionic Beaver," is a long-term support release of the Ubuntu operating system. It was released on April 26, 2018. This version introduced several key features, including improved UEFI Secure Boot, broader Kernel Livepatch coverage, and the GNOME desktop environment replacing Unity.

• Model: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS (Bionic Beaver)
• Version: 18.04.x LTS (e.g., 18.04.6 LTS is a point release)
• Release Date: April 26, 2018
• Minimum Requirements:
  • Processor: 700 MHz 64-bit processor (minimum), 1 GHz x64 processor (recommended)
  • RAM: 1 GB (minimum), 2 GB (recommended)
  • Storage: 10 GB (minimum), 20 GB (recommended)
  • Display: VGA capable of 1024x768 screen resolution
• Supported Operating Systems: As an operating system itself, it runs on compatible hardware. It dropped support for 32-bit processors.
• Latest Stable Version: The latest point release for the 18.04 series is 18.04.6 LTS.
• End of Standard Support Date: May 31, 2023.
• End of Life Date: With Ubuntu Pro, support extends until April 2028. Without Ubuntu Pro, the end of life date is effectively the end of standard support.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Standard security updates ceased on May 31, 2023. Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) via Ubuntu Pro provides updates until April 2028.
• License Type: Open-source, primarily under the GNU General Public License (GPL) and other free software licenses.
• Deployment Model: Can be deployed on physical hardware (desktops, servers), virtual machines, and cloud environments.

Technical Requirements

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS requires a 64-bit architecture.

• RAM:
  • Minimum: 1 GB
  • Recommended: 2 GB or more for desktop use. For a minimal server installation, 256 MiB is cited.
• Processor:
  • Minimum: 700 MHz 64-bit processor
  • Recommended: 1 GHz x64 processor or better.
• Storage:
  • Minimum: 10 GB of hard disk space for desktop installation.
  • Recommended: 20 GB or more. A minimal server installation requires 1.5 GB.
• Display: VGA capable of 1024x768 screen resolution.
• Ports: USB port or DVD drive for installation media.
• Operating System: It is the operating system itself.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for Ubuntu 18.04 LTS are relatively modest, especially for server deployments or minimal desktop installations. The shift to 64-bit only architecture from previous versions means older 32-bit hardware is not supported. The recommended specifications provide a smoother user experience, particularly with the GNOME 3.28 desktop environment. These requirements make it suitable for a wide range of hardware, from older machines to modern systems, though performance scales with better components.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Ubuntu 18.04.6 LTS.
• OS Support: It is an operating system. It supports 64-bit x86 and ARM64 architectures.
• End of Support Date:
  • Standard Support: May 31, 2023.
  • Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) with Ubuntu Pro: April 2028.
• Localization: Ubuntu supports a vast number of languages and regional settings, making it accessible globally.
• Available Drivers: Ubuntu includes a comprehensive set of open-source drivers by default. Proprietary drivers, especially for graphics cards (NVIDIA, AMD) and Wi-Fi adapters, are often available through additional drivers utility or manufacturer websites. Hardware enablement stacks (HWE) are provided in point releases to support newer hardware.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS has reached its end of standard support, meaning it no longer receives free security, feature, and maintenance updates. Users continuing to run 18.04 LTS without Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) are vulnerable to unpatched security issues. ESM, available through Ubuntu Pro, extends security coverage for critical packages until April 2028. Compatibility with a broad range of hardware is a strong point, with extensive driver support. However, for optimal performance and security, upgrading to a newer LTS release (e.g., 20.04 LTS or 22.04 LTS) is recommended.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • UEFI Secure Boot: Improved support.
  • Kernel Livepatch: Allows applying kernel security updates without rebooting.
  • AppArmor: Mandatory access control system for application confinement.
  • Firewall (ufw): Configurable firewall for host-based protection.
  • Snaps: Applications run in confinement with restricted access to system resources based on security policies.
  • Full Disk Encryption: Recommended for data-at-rest protection.
  • Automatic Security Updates: Configurable for OS and snap applications.
• Known Vulnerabilities: As an operating system that has reached its end of standard support, it is susceptible to new vulnerabilities if not covered by ESM.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable as it is an operating system.
• Certifications:
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 1: Certified for cryptographic modules (OpenSSL-1.1.1) in Ubuntu 18.04 LTS.
  • Common Criteria EAL2: Achieved for Ubuntu Server 18.04 LTS.
• Encryption Support:
  • LUKS/dm-crypt: For full disk encryption.
  • ecryptfs-utils: Can be used for encrypted private or home directories after installation.
  • fscrypt: Supports directory encryption on ext4 filesystems.
• Authentication Methods:
  • Password-based authentication.
  • Public-key-based authentication (for SSH).
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA) / Two-factor authentication (2FA): Can be configured using PAM modules like Google Authenticator.
  • YubiKey and Duo support.
• General Recommendations:
  • Upgrade to a newer LTS release (20.04 LTS or 22.04 LTS) for continued free security updates.
  • For existing 18.04 LTS deployments, subscribe to Ubuntu Pro for ESM until 2028.
  • Implement strong password policies and MFA.
  • Utilize full disk encryption.
  • Configure firewalls and ensure automatic updates are enabled.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, particularly with Ubuntu Pro and ESM, offers a robust security posture with various features like UEFI Secure Boot, Kernel Livepatch, AppArmor, and FIPS 140-2 certification. However, its end of standard support means that without an Ubuntu Pro subscription, it is no longer receiving crucial security updates, making it a significant security risk for unpatched systems. The availability of advanced authentication methods and encryption options further enhances its security capabilities when properly configured. Organizations operating in regulated environments can leverage its certifications for compliance.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Performance comparisons between Ubuntu 18.04 LTS and newer versions like 20.04 LTS often show improvements in the latter, largely due to newer kernels, updated software packages, and compiler versions.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Users generally found Ubuntu 18.04 LTS to be snappy and usable, especially on modern hardware. Boot speed was a focus for improvement.
• Power Consumption: Not specifically detailed in general benchmarks, but typically optimized in LTS releases.
• Carbon Footprint: Not typically a directly measured metric for operating systems, but efficiency improvements in newer kernels and software can indirectly reduce energy consumption.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Compared to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS: Ubuntu 20.04 LTS generally offers performance improvements, a more modern interface, and better ease of setup.
  • Compared to Windows 10: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS and 20.04 LTS are reported to offer better performance, with applications running faster and lower RAM consumption.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS delivered solid performance for its time, with a focus on boot speed and general snappiness. While subsequent LTS releases like 20.04 LTS have shown incremental performance gains due to newer kernels and updated software stacks, 18.04 LTS remains capable on suitable hardware. Its performance is generally considered superior to Windows 10 for many common tasks and resource utilization. However, for demanding applications or to leverage the latest hardware, newer Ubuntu versions are likely to provide better optimization.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for Ubuntu 18.04 LTS generally highlight its stability and reliability, as expected from an LTS release. The transition to the GNOME desktop environment was a significant change from previous Unity-based versions, which was met with mixed reactions; some appreciated the modern interface, while others found it less intuitive or preferred the older desktop. The inclusion of a minimal installation option was welcomed by users who prefer a leaner system.

• Strengths:
  • Stability and reliability: A hallmark of LTS releases.
  • Improved UEFI Secure Boot and Kernel Livepatch.
  • Snappy and usable desktop experience, especially for its release era.
  • Minimal installation option for customization.
  • Strong security features and certifications (FIPS 140-2, Common Criteria).
  • Extensive software availability through APT and Snaps.
• Weaknesses:
  • End of standard support: Requires Ubuntu Pro for continued security updates, which can be a cost factor.
  • GNOME desktop: Some users found the GNOME 3 interface less efficient or preferred Unity.
  • No direct upgrade path to 22.04 LTS: Requires an intermediate upgrade to 20.04 LTS.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Servers and cloud deployments requiring long-term stability and certified security (with Ubuntu Pro).
  • Development environments, particularly for AI and machine learning, leveraging integrated tools and GPU acceleration.
  • Users seeking a stable Linux desktop experience, provided they are comfortable with the GNOME desktop or use a different flavor.
  • Organizations with specific compliance requirements due to FIPS 140-2 and Common Criteria certifications.

Summary

Canonical Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, "Bionic Beaver," released in April 2018, served as a foundational long-term support operating system known for its stability and enterprise-grade features. It introduced significant advancements such as enhanced UEFI Secure Boot, Kernel Livepatch, and the adoption of GNOME 3.28 as the default desktop. The system requirements are moderate, supporting a wide array of 64-bit hardware with options for minimal installations.

A key strength of Ubuntu 18.04 LTS lies in its robust security framework, including AppArmor, a configurable firewall, and strong encryption support. It achieved FIPS 140-2 Level 1 and Common Criteria EAL2 certifications, making it suitable for regulated industries. Multi-factor authentication options further bolster its security posture. Performance was generally well-regarded, offering a snappy user experience and often outperforming Windows 10 in resource efficiency.

However, a critical consideration is its end of standard support on May 31, 2023. Without an Ubuntu Pro subscription, systems running 18.04 LTS no longer receive free security updates, posing significant risks. Ubuntu Pro extends this support until April 2028, providing continued security maintenance. While it remains a stable platform, users are strongly advised to either upgrade to a newer LTS release (20.04 LTS or 22.04 LTS) or secure their deployments with Ubuntu Pro to maintain security and compliance.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.