Introduction

LXLE is a lightweight, fast and visually appealing Linux distribution based on Ubuntu’s long-term support (LTS) releases. It is designed to bring new life to older computers while offering a modern and stable desktop experience. By blending the simplicity of the LXDE (Lightweight X11 Desktop Environment) or LXQt desktop with carefully selected software, LXLE aims to deliver a robust system that is both resource-efficient and user-friendly.

What is LXLE?

LXLE stands for “Lubuntu Extra Life Extension.” It is a respin (remix) of Lubuntu LTS editions, remastered to include useful defaults, eye-catching themes, and a suite of preconfigured applications. The goal of LXLE is to provide an operating system that runs smoothly on legacy hardware, netbooks, and low-specification machines.

History and Background

The project began in 2013 as a community-driven effort to enhance Lubuntu’s LTS releases by adding a curated collection of applications, system tweaks, and visual enhancements. While Lubuntu itself strives to be minimalistic, LXLE takes the opposite approach by including a comprehensive set of tools out of the box, reducing the need for end-users to install software manually.

• Initial Release: LXLE 12.04.3 in late 2013
• Base: Ubuntu LTS (12.04, 14.04, 16.04, 18.04, etc.)
• Desktop Environment: LXDE initially option for LXQt in later versions
• Developer: James Moody and community contributors

Key Features

• Resource Efficiency: Extremely low memory and CPU usage, ideal for older PCs.
• Long-Term Support: Based on Ubuntu LTS, offering five years of security updates.
• Preinstalled Software: Includes multimedia codecs, productivity suites, web browsers and system tools.
• Visual Enhancements: Custom icon sets, wallpapers, themes, and window manager tweaks.
• Ease of Use: Intuitive menu layouts, system shortcuts, and built-in tweak tools.
• Regular Respins: Periodic updates of the ISO to include the latest patches and improvements.

How LXLE Works

LXLE functions much like any other Ubuntu-based distribution but emphasizes simplicity and performance. Below is an overview of its key components and workflow.

System Components

• Linux Kernel: The core component handling hardware communication.
• X.Org Server: Responsible for graphical display management.
• LXDE/LXQt: Lightweight desktop environment providing menus, panels, and window management.
• Openbox: Default window manager known for speed and customization capabilities.
• PCManFM: File manager offering tabbed browsing and minimal memory footprint.
• PulseAudio: Sound system for flexible audio management.
• NetworkManager: Tool for simplified network configuration (wired, Wi-Fi, VPN).

Hardware Requirements

• Processor: Pentium II or later (i686 architecture) or equivalent AMD CPU.
• RAM: Minimum 512 MB (1 GB recommended for comfortable multitasking).
• Storage: At least 8 GB of free disk space (16 GB recommended).
• Graphics: SVGA display capable of 800×600 resolution (1024×768 or higher recommended).
• Media: USB flash drive or CD/DVD drive for installation.

Installation Process

1. Download the appropriate LXLE ISO image from the official website or mirror.
2. Create a bootable USB drive using tools like balenaEtcher or Rufus.
3. Boot the target machine from the USB drive (adjust BIOS/UEFI settings as needed).
4. Select “Install LXLE” from the live session menu.
5. Follow the graphical installer steps: language, time zone, keyboard layout, partitioning.
6. Create user credentials and wait for the installation to complete.
7. Reboot, remove the installation media, and log in to the new LXLE desktop.

Target Audience and Orientation

LXLE is crafted for a wide range of users, from Linux newcomers to tech-savvy veterans interested in breathing new life into outdated hardware. Its blend of performance, functionality and aesthetics makes it appealing to several user categories.

Ideal Users

• Owners of Legacy Hardware: Users with older desktops or laptops seeking responsive performance.
• Education Sector: Schools and institutions with budget constraints can deploy LXLE on dated machines.
• Non-Profits and NGOs: Organizations that require cost-effective computing solutions.
• Linux Newcomers: Individuals looking for a stable, straightforward Linux distribution.
• Developers and Tinkerers: Users who appreciate a lightweight base that can be customized.

Use Cases

• Home Office: Use low-end hardware for word processing, spreadsheets, email and web browsing.
• Media Center: Set up an older PC as a lightweight media server or playback device.
• Public Access Kiosk: Deploy in libraries or community centers for basic web and document access.
• Retro Gaming: Install emulators and play classic games on legacy hardware.
• Eco-Friendly Computing: Reduce e-waste by extending the lifespan of existing machines.

Curiosities and Interesting Facts

• Unique Branding: The project’s logo features a chameleon, symbolizing adaptability and resourcefulness.
• Wallpaper Carousel: LXLE includes over 100 high-resolution wallpapers that rotate randomly at startup.
• Custom Shortcuts: Built-in hotkeys for file manager, browser, terminal and screenshot utilities.
• Frugal Mode: A special live session option allowing persistence on USBs with minimal writes.
• “Spear” Tool: A custom script that automatically locates and installs missing multimedia codecs.
• Community Translators: The distribution is available in more than 20 languages thanks to volunteer translators.
• Periodic ISO Refresh: Every few months, the project releases an updated ISO to package current updates and bug fixes.

Comparison Table

Installing Additional Software

While LXLE comes packed with common applications, you may want to add or remove packages based on your needs. Here are the primary methods:

• Software Center: Graphical interface for browsing and installing software.
• Synaptic Package Manager: Advanced GUI front-end for apt.
• Terminal: Use sudo apt update sudo apt install ltpackage-namegt for command-line installation.
• PPAs and Repositories: Add Personal Package Archives for specialized or bleeding-edge software.

Troubleshooting and Community Support

Despite its stability, you may encounter occasional issues. The LXLE community provides various support channels:

• Official Forums: Active user forums for troubleshooting and customization tips.
• IRC Channels: Real-time help via IRC (#lxle on Freenode).
• Wiki Documentation: Step-by-step guides, FAQs, and configuration tutorials.
• Bug Tracker: Report and track issues on the project’s launchpad page.
• YouTube Tutorials: Community-created videos demonstrating installation and tweaks.

Conclusion

LXLE represents a compelling solution for anyone seeking to revitalize aged hardware without sacrificing modern conveniences. With its long-term support foundation, intuitive interface, and resource-conscious design, LXLE strikes a fine balance between performance and functionality. Whether you are a student, home user, or organization with limited budgets, LXLE offers a polished, ready-to-use environment that minimizes setup time and maximizes productivity.

Sources

• Official LXLE Website
• Ubuntu LTS Installation Guide
• Lubuntu Wiki
• LXLE on Launchpad