Xubuntu is an official derivative of the
Ubuntu Linux distribution, using the
Xfce desktop environment. Xubuntu is intended for users with less powerful computers or those who seek a highly efficient desktop environment on faster systems. It features mostly
GTK+History
Xubuntu was originally rumored to release alongside Breezy Badger (5.10) versions of the Ubuntu line, but an official release date was not decided upon, although the Xubuntu name was used for a metapackage (xubuntu-desktop) which would install an Xfce desktop. The first official Xubuntu release appeared on June 1, 2006, alongside the Ubuntu 6.06 line (including Kubuntu and Edubuntu) code named Dapper Drake. The current version is 8.04 (Hardy Heron).
A slightly customized version of Xubuntu is delivered with the Linutop. The main modifications are the inclusion of a kernel and an X.org driver that only supports the Linutop's Geode LX CPU and its built-in graphic chip.
eeeXubuntu is a variant of Xubuntu for the storage-constrained Asus Eee PC.
A minimal Xubuntu variant called "UserOS Ultra" was produced for Australia's PC User magazine.
Differences from Ubuntu
Ubuntu uses the GNOME Desktop Environment as well as GNOME applications. Xubuntu uses the Xfce desktop environment which uses fewer system resources and therefore works better with older computers. Xubuntu also features primarily GTK+ applications that are designed to use fewer resources than their GNOME counterparts. Xubuntu has access to the same default application repositories as Ubuntu and can run most of those applications with only minor differences in the user interface (as it has a different desktop environment).
Requirements
Xubuntu can be installed with one of 2 CDs, both requiring at least 1.5GB of hard drive space. Installing with the Desktop CD requires 192 MB of RAM, while the Alternate CD (which uses a text based installer), requires 64 MB of RAM, and also allows access to additional options for the installation. Once installed, Xubuntu can run with 192 MB RAM, but it is strongly recommended to have at least 256 MB RAM.
