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MX Linux
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| MX Linux | |
|---|---|
MX Linux 25 "Infinity" desktop. | |
| Developer | MX Dev Team |
| OS family | Linux (Unix-like) |
| Working state | Current |
| Source model | Open source |
| Initial release | 24 March 2014 |
| Latest release | 25.1[1] / 12 January 2026 |
| Repository | github |
| Marketing target | Personal computers |
| Available in | Over 63 languages |
| Update method | Long-term support LTS |
| Package manager | Apt (dpkg) · Flatpak |
| Supported platforms | x86-64 |
| Kernel type | Monolithic (Linux) |
| Userland | GNU |
| Default user interface | Xfce, Fluxbox & KDE |
| License | Linux Foundation Sublicense No. 20140605-0483 |
| Official website | mxlinux |
MX Linux is a midweight, desktop-oriented Linux distribution based on Debian Stable 13 "trixie" that emphasizes stability, performance, and ease of use. MX Linux uses core antiX components, with additional software created or packaged by the MX community.[2] The development of MX Linux is a collaborative effort between the antiX and former MEPIS communities. The MX name comes from the "M" in MEPIS and the "X" in antiX — an acknowledgment of their roots.
The MX Linux community's stated goal is to produce "a family of operating systems that are designed to combine elegant and efficient desktops with high stability and solid performance". They maintain an active community with comprehensive documentation, support forum, and video tutorials to support diverse user needs.[3]
Beginnings
[edit]MX Linux began in a discussion about future options among members of the MEPIS community in December 2013.[4] Developers from antiX then joined them, bringing the ISO build system as well as Live-USB/DVD technology. To be listed on the Linux distribution clearinghouse Web site DistroWatch, MX Linux was initially presented as a version of antiX called MX "Fusion".[5] It received its own DistroWatch page with the release of the first public beta of MX Linux 16 "Metamorphosis"[5] on 2 November 2016.[6]
Distribution
[edit]MX Linux offers ISO images for installation that can be downloaded directly[7] or by using BitTorrent.[8] Physical discs can also be bought from retailers.[9] Fluxbox, KDE and Xfce are available in 64-bit variants of those releases.[10]
The MX Devs create Snapshots for ease of installation after a release. These begin a few months after a release. Snapshots include all upgrades & subsequent bug fixes. This greatly reduces the time spent and updating bandwidth usage during an installation.[11]
Releases
[edit]| Older releases |
|---|
| *The MX-14, codename "Symbiosis", series was based on Debian Stable "Wheezy", using Xfce 4.10 and then, with the 14.4 release, Xfce 4.12. The MX-14 versions were intended to fit onto a CD-ROM, which limited the number of applications that could be included. This series saw the gradual evolution of the MX Tools, a collection of utilities to help users with common tasks that are often complicated and obscure.[12] |
| *MX-15 "Fusion" moved to the new Debian Stable "Jessie" using systemd-shim, meaning that systemd is installed, but the default init is sysvinit.[4] The size limitation was lifted, enabling the developers to present a full turnkey product. There was a substantial expansion of MX Tools. |
| *MX-16 "Metamorphosis" was still based on Debian Stable "Jessie", but with many applications backported and added from other sources. There were further refinements to MX Tools, the import of advanced antiX developments, expanded support, and a completely new icon/theme/wallpaper collection.[13][14] |
| *MX-16.1 collected all bug fixes and improvements since MX-16, added a new kingfisher theme, upgraded and streamlined MX Tools, revised documentation, and added new translations.[15] |
| *MX-17 "Horizon" changed its base to Debian 9 (Stretch) and brought upgraded artwork, new MX Tools, improved Live operation via antiX and other changes.[16] |
| *MX-18 "Continuum" continued the development of MX Tools, introduced a new kernel, enabled whole disk encryption, and added GRUB themes, splash functionality through MX Boot options artwork, and improved localization.[17] |
| *MX-19 "Patito feo" upgraded its base to Debian 10 (Buster) and its default desktop to Xfce 4.14. It is characterized by new and revised Tools, artwork, documentation, localization, and technical features.[18] |
- MX-21 "Wildflower" was released on 21 October 2021. It is based on Debian 11.0 (Bullseye) and is available as Xfce, KDE or Fluxbox versions. Disk Manager returns and for share settings, MX Samba Config app (GUI) is included.[19] MX-21.1 was released on 9 April 2022.[20] MX-21.2 was released on 28 August 2022.[21] MX-21.2.1 was released on 18 September 2022.[22] MX-21.3 3rd refresh of MX-21, was released on 14 January 2023.[23]
- MX-23 "Libretto" was released on 31 July 2023. Based on Debian 12 with bug fixes, new kernels, and many application updates. Available as Xfce (4.18), Xfce AHS, KDE, and Fluxbox versions. Further details are in the MX blog.[24] MX-23.1 "Libretto" was released on 15 October 2023. First ISO refresh of the initial MX-23 release.[25]
- MX-23.2 "Libretto" was released on 21 January 2024. 2nd ISO refresh of MX-23, consisting of Debian 12.4, bug fixes, newer kernels, updated firmware & mesa libraries, Pipewire 1.0, and two new tools: MX Locale and Papirus Folder Colors.[26] MX-23.3 "Libretto" was released on 19 May 2024. 3rd ISO refresh of MX-23[27] MX-23.4 "Libretto" was released on 15 September 2024. 4th ISO refresh of MX-23[28]
- MX-23.5 "Libretto" was released on 13 January 2025. 5th ISO refresh of MX-23, consisting of an update to Debian 12.9, kernel updates, MX Package Installer has UI improvements and better version display for packages, updated Xfce 4.20 core packages, bug fixes, language updates, and many new applications in the MX 'test' repository.[29]
- MX-23.6 "Libretto" was released on 13 April 2025. 6th ISO refresh of MX-23, consisting of: update to Debian 12.10, kernel updates, bug fixes, and language updates. UEFI Manager, a new app for managing UEFI settings. Many new applications in the MX 'test' repository.[30][31]
- MX-25 "Infinity" was released on 9 November 2025 and was built on Debian 13 "trixie".[32] Standard kernel is 6.12.43 with Liquorix 6.15 for the Advanced Hardware Support "AHS". New is the deb822 sources format. The installer can "replace" an existing install and offers zram swap. Support for Secure Boot. KDE is version 6.3.6 with both Wayland and X11 sessions available. All releases are available with Systemd. The Xfce, Xfce-AHS, and Fluxbox releases are also available in sysVint variants.[33]
- MX-25.1 With the release of 25.1, Dual Init is now again possible.[34] This includes both systemd and SysVinit[35] init systems on the same ISO.[1]
Desktop editions
[edit]MX Linux uses Xfce as the main desktop environment, to which it adds a freestanding KDE Plasma version and, in 2021, a stand-alone Fluxbox implementation. Other environments can be added or are available as "spin-off" ISO images.[36]
The four MX Linux editions:
- Xfce is a fast and medium-low resource usage desktop environment of Xfce version 4.20 offered as 64-bit ISOs.[37]
- Fluxbox is a window manager with very low resource usage. Fluxbox[19] 64-bit version is 1.3.7.
- KDE a 64-bit Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) version.[23] It currently features version 6.3.6 of the KDE Plasma desktop and Linux kernel 6.12 (or later).[23] Wayland is the default session, but X11 is available from the session chooser on the login screen.[38]
- AHS (Advanced Hardware Support), a 64-bit version of Xfce with newer graphics drivers, currently with Linux kernel 6.16 (or newer) and firmware for very recent hardware (for example, AMD Ryzen and AMD Radeon RX graphics cards or 11th/12th/13th generation Intel CPUs).[39]
The MX Linux editions major difference from each other in the following:
| Software | Xfce | KDE | Fluxbox |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kernel | Debian Linux kernel | Liquorix[40] | Debian Linux kernel |
| Display server | X.Org Server | Wayland | X.Org Server |
| Sound server | PipeWire | ||
| Multimedia | VLC and Strawberry | MPV and Audacious | |
| Window Manager | Xfwm4 | KWin | Fluxbox |
| Desktop Environment | Xfce | Plasma Desktop | none |
| Primary toolkit | GTK | Qt | C++ |
| Primary Package Manager | MX Package Installer[41] | Discover[42] | MX Package Installer |
| Browser | Firefox | ||
| Office suite | LibreOffice | qpdfview[43] | |
| Email and PIM | Thunderbird | none | |
| Image viewer | Nomacs[44] | Qimgv[45] | Nomacs |
Recent releases
[edit]A table of current MX Linux Development Team supported releases and how long Debian will provide Long Term Support.[46]
| Version | Codename | Release | kernel[47] | AHS kernel[48] | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX-25.1[1] | Infinity | January 12, 2026 | 6.12.63 | 6.16 Liquorix[33] | Dual-init is now once again possible; included are both systemd and sysVinit on the same ISO. |
| MX-25[49][33] | 9 November 2025 | 6.12.48 | 6.16 Liquorix[33] | Changes:[50] Xfce 4.20, Fluxbox 1.3.7, KDE/plasma 6.3.6 Debian Main Support to August 9, 2028. Debian Long Term Support to June 30, 2030.[51] | |
| MX-23.6[30] | Libretto | 13 April 2025 | 6.1.133 | 6.14 Liquorix |
6th refresh of MX 23 with many bugfixes. Debian 12.10 "bookworm" base. New MX Tool - UEFI Manager for managing UEFI settings. Updates to: kernel, applications, and firmware. |
| MX-23.5[29] | 13 January 2025 | 6.1.123 | 6.12.8 Liquorix |
5th refresh of MX 23 with many bugfixes. Updates to: kernel, applications, firmware, and updated Xfce 4.20 core packages. | |
| MX-23.4[28] | 15 September 2024 | 6.1.106 | 6.10.10 Liquorix | MX 4th refresh. Bugfixes, updates of kernel & applications, updated firmware packages & updated Xfce core to 4.18. | |
| MX-23.3[27] | 19 May 2024 | 6.1.90 | 6.8.9 | 3rd refresh of MX 23. AHS now has the 6.8.9 Liquorix Kernel. | |
| MX-23.2[26] | 21 January 2024 | 6.1.x | 6.6 | 2nd refresh of MX 23. AHS now has the 6.6 Liquorix Kernel. | |
| MX-23.1[25] | 15 October 2023 | 6.1.x | 6.5 | First refresh of MX 23. All ISOs have been updated to the newest 6.1 Kernel, and AHS now has the 6.5 Kernel. | |
| MX-23[24] | 31 July 2023 | 6.1.0[52] | 6.4.0 | Xfce Desktop Environment upgraded to 4.18. Debian Main Support to June 2026. Long Term Support to June 30, 2028.[53] | |
| MX-21[19] | Wildflower | 21 October 2021 | 5.10 | 6.0 | Debian Main Support to August 2024. Long Term Support to August 31, 2026.[53] |
Legend: Unsupported Supported Latest version Preview version | |||||
Historical releases
MX Linux 14-21
| Version | Codename | Release | kernel[47] | AHS kernel[48] |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX-21.3 all DE's[23] | Wildflower | 15 January 2023 | 5.10 | 6.0 |
| MX-21.2.1 all DE's[22] | 18 September 2022 | 5.18 | ||
| MX-21.2 all DE's[21] | 28 August 2022 | 5.18 | ||
| MX-21.1 all DE's[20] | 9 April 2022 | 5.16 | ||
| MX-21 AHS[54] | 22 November 2021 | 5.14 | ||
| MX-21[19] | 21 October 2021 | |||
| MX-19.4[55] | Patito feo | 31 March 2021 | 5.10 | |
| MX-19.3 | 11 November 2020 | 4.19 | ||
| MX-19.2 KDE | 16 August 2020 | |||
| 19.2[56] | 31 May 2020 | |||
| MX-19.1 | 14 February 2020 | |||
| MX-19[18] | 21 October 2019 | |||
| MX-18[17] | Continuum | 4 January 2019 | ||
| MX-17[16] | Horizon | 15 December 2017 | ||
| MX-16[13][14][15] | Metamorphosis | 8 June 2017 | ||
| MX-15[57] | Fusion | 12 December 2015 | ||
| MX-14[12] | Symbiosis | March 2014 | ||
Legend: Unsupported Supported Latest version | ||||
Design and features
[edit]Core architecture
[edit]With MX Linux being based on Debian Stable this provides high reliability and long-term support through rigorously tested packages, with updates focused on security and bug fixes rather than frequent feature additions. At its core, MX Linux integrates key components from antiX (a lightweight Debian derivative), to create a hybrid architecture. The antiX base contributes to a low-resource boot process and efficient system initialization, allowing MX Linux to run effectively on older hardware while still supporting modern PCs. Kernel options in MX Linux prioritize stability with the Debian 6.12 LTS series. For users with newer hardware, the Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) repository provides access to updated kernels, such as the 6.16 Liquorix variant in MX-25, ensuring broader compatibility without compromising the core stable base.
MX Linux supports installations on both UEFI[58] and legacy BIOS (MBR) PCs, external drives, USB medium and other block access devices through the graphical Gazelle installer[59]
- Handles partitioning and bootloader setup for diverse firmware environments.
- A feature for setting up zram swap device.[60]
- The ability to "replace" an existing linux installation by preserving the /home folder. A list of found installations to replace will be used to set up a fresh /root install, with /home folders (or partition) preserved.[61]
- Support for 64 bit UEFI Secure Boot installation. The "AHS" releases with the Liquorix kernels[62] do not support Secure Boot.
MX Cleanup can now remove: unused dkms drivers (wifi), MX Manuals and FAQs for languages other than the default. MX Linux has a GUI-based method to change the Linux kernel.
MX Tools
[edit]
MX Tools[63] is a suite of 37+ user-oriented utilities, many of which were developed specifically for MX Linux, while some were forked from existing antiX applications or are existing antiX applications; a couple were imported with permission from outside sources. These tools are also available in Debian Stable-based Linux distributions. The Qt-based GUI MX Tools have been migrated to Qt6.
The MX Tools (see screenshot at right) are as follows:
- Live - Live USB maker and Snapshot.
- Maintenance - Chroot Rescue Scan, Disk Manager,[64] Job Scheduler, Boot Options,[65] Boot Repair,[66] Cleanup, Samba Config,[67] Service Manager[68] and User Manager.
- Setup - About MX Linux, Bash Config, Nvidia driver installer, Conky, Date & Time, Locale, Network Assistant, Select Sound, System Sounds, Tour, Brightness Systray, Tweak, Welcome, Papirus Folder Colors, System Keyboard, and User Installed Packages.
- Software - Deb Installer,[69] Fix GPG keys, Package Installer,[41] Repo Manager, Updater Settings, Updater, and UEFI Manager.[70]
- Utilities - Quick System Info and Format USB.
MX Boot Repair
[edit]MX Boot Repair addresses bootloader issues, supporting both BIOS (legacy) and UEFI systems by reinstalling GRUB or regenerating the Grub configuration file. Launched from a live USB session, it offers options to repair GRUB on the installed system, detect operating systems.[71]
MX Boot Options
[edit]Allows installing GRUB themes and updating boot menus for simpler startup customization and handles a common UEFI boot failure like Windows overtaking Grub in boot menu.[72]
A few tools exist in special cases. Live-USB Kernel Updater and Remaster Control Center are stand-alone tools. Eject USB is a stand-alone tool in Fluxbox and Xfce.
A particularly popular one is MX-snapshot,[73] a GUI tool to remaster a live session or installation into a single .ISO file.[74] The "cloned" image is bootable from a disk or USB flash drive, maintaining all settings, allowing an installation to be completely backed up, and/or distributed with minimal administrative effort, since an advanced method of copying the file system developed by antiX Linux uses bind-mounts to perform the "heavy lifting".[75]
Live vs installed
[edit]MX Linux can be installed or run "Live" (running from USB), unlike a Windows boot USB. Windows can only be installed (no live option). When booted from a USB, you can continue running 'Live' without being prompted to install MX Linux. This Live environment gives you a fully functional desktop experience. MX Linux accomplishes this by way of a runtime inherited from antiX[76] to give a fast read-write live boot media.[77] This can be coupled with a persistent live USB setup[78] to save any changes to settings and new program additions.[79]
As of November 9, 2025, there are a total of 106 MX Linux repository download mirrors worldwide in operation.[80] The MX Linux operated repos almost always are in sync without error. They are: United States: Los Angeles (CA) & Salt Lake City (UT). Alblasserdam (Netherlands) and Milan (Italy).[81]
GDebi replaced by Deb Installer
[edit]GDebi was an APT tool that was used to install .deb files from earlier versions of Debian. Deb Installer, a new MX Tool (GUI) can install local .deb files like the dpkg command, but with access to repositories to resolve dependencies.
Package management
[edit]Included: MX Package Installer,[41] Synaptic, Deb Installer, Aptitude,[82] APT and Nala.[83] Discover[42] is used on the KDE edition as Synaptic is not installed by default. Flatpaks are managed via the MX Package Installer. AppImage and Snaps are currently user-managed.
System requirements
[edit]Minimum
- 8.5 GB hard disk space for installation.
- 1 GB RAM for AMD64 architectures.
- Bootable CD/DVD drive or capability of booting from USB Flash memory.
- A modern Intel or AMD processor.
Recommended
- 20 GB of hard disk space, SSD for faster performance.
- 2 GB of RAM.
- Multi-core processor for good performance.
- 3D-capable graphics card for 3D desktop support.
- SoundBlaster, AC'97 or HDA-compatible sound card.
- For use as a LiveUSB, 8 GB free if using persistence.
Derivatives
[edit]The developers of MX Linux have also been releasing their own "Community Re-spins", which are treated as unofficial releases.[36] They currently are:
- MX-Workbench - meant to be a "Swiss Army knife" type of Linux running live mostly.
- MX_Minimal - contains only the Xfce environment, Firefox and pretty much nothing else.
- MX_CLI - boots to CLI (Command line Interface) with no Xorg (GUI), no applications, pretty much nothing.
MX Linux Raspberry Pi respin
[edit]This “Ragout2” is a specialized, Debian-based Linux distribution optimized for Raspberry Pi 4, 400, and 5, combining MX Linux's, MX Linux's tools with the Pi's hardware capabilities. It features a lightweight XFCE desktop, Chromium browser, and is noted for being fast, stable, and user-friendly, supporting GPIO and common desktop apps.[84] A tips Wiki article is available.[85] Both a Raspberry Pi and an Orange Pi[86] editions are offered.
Community respins
[edit]Some community members exchange posts at the MX Linux Forum and distribute their own custom respins.[87]
- MX Linux forum user Senpai[88] has created a Raspberry Pi respin using MX Linux 25 as its base.[89]
- AV Linux is a Linux distribution based on MX Linux, focusing on multimedia content creation.[90][91]
- Commodore OS Vision is a community-driven Linux distribution for Commodore enthusiasts.
- extrox[92] uses the Xfce desktop with the Compiz compositing window manager resulting in a rich desktop environment with the look and feel of KDE Plasma, but having the advantage of minimizing system resource usage.[93]
- iDeal OS - a custom & enhanced "respin" of MX Linux with privacy and security settings enhancements.[94]
- MX-Moksha 23.6 - MX Linux+Bodhi Linux/Moksha with a Liquorix Kernel, extra system tweaks, and custom utilities WITH NO Audio and Video production applications or Plugins.[95]
See also
[edit]- antiX Lightweight systemd free Linux distribution
- List of live CDs
- List of Linux distributions
- List of tools to create bootable USB
- List of Linux distributions that run from RAM
References
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- ^ Adrian (31 August 2023). "HELP — Service Manager". MX/antiX Technical Documentation Wiki. MXLinux. Retrieved 21 August 2025.
- ^ Adrian (2022). "New MX tool app: deb-installer". www.reddit.com. Reddit. Retrieved 21 August 2025.
- ^ Adrian; Jerry; fehlix (27 June 2025). "UEFI Manager". MX/antiX Technical Documentation Wiki. MXLinux. Retrieved 21 August 2025.
- ^ Mike O'Toole (18 November 2025). "HELP: MX Boot Repair". MX linux Support Forum. New Jersey, USA. Retrieved 8 December 2025.
- ^ Adrian; fehlix (3 July 2022). "HELP: MX Boot options – MX Linux". MX Linux WiKi. MXLinux. Retrieved 8 December 2025.
- ^ Jerry (13 June 2015). "HELP: MX Save system to ISO (Snapshot)". MX Wiki. MXLinux. Retrieved 26 November 2022.
- ^ Ljubuncic, Igor. "MX Snapshot - Superb system imaging and backup tool". www.dedoimedo.com. Dedoimedo. Retrieved 10 May 2023.
- ^ Jaskiran Kaur; Mathew Rooney; Shahryar Raz (2023). bin Uzayr, Sufyan (ed.). Mastering KDE: A Beginner's Guide. CRC Press. p. 221. ISBN 9781032313665.
- ^ Peregrine. "MX Linux – Midweight Simple Stable Desktop OS". mxlinux.org. MXLinux. Retrieved 19 May 2025.
- ^ "The Most Extensive Live-usb on the Planet!". antixlinux.com. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
- ^ Dolphin Oracle (14 October 2018). "Create a Live usb w/Persist from a Windows Desktop". mxlinux.org. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
- ^ Dolphin Oracle (8 January 2022). "Do cool stuff with live-usbs". mxlinux.org. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
- ^ Perigrine (13 April 2025). "the status of MX Linux mirrors". rsync-mxlinux.org. MXLinux.Org. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
- ^ dolphinoracle (2023). "Reddit - The heart of the internet". r/MXLinux. reddit.com. Retrieved 8 August 2025.
- ^ "aptitude". www.debian.org. Debian. 17 February 2025. Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ^ Sneddon, Joey (6 January 2023). "Nala is a Neat Alternative to Apt on Ubuntu". OMG! Ubuntu. Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ^ Dolphin Oracle (30 December 2023). "MX-23.1 Raspberry PI OS respin – MX Linux". mxlinux.org. MXLinux. Retrieved 13 February 2026.
- ^ Jerry Bond (29 November 2023). "HELP: RPi Tips – MX Linux". mxlinux.org. MXLinux.
- ^ Jerry Bond (22 July 2024). "MX-23 Xfce final released for the Orange Pi 5". MX Linux Forum. MXLinux. Retrieved 13 February 2026.
- ^ "MX Respins Forum". forum.mxlinux.org. Retrieved 2 June 2024.
- ^ Senpai (11 February 2026). "Re: Any plans for Mx 25 for the raspberry pi?". MX Linux Forum. MXLinux. Retrieved 13 February 2026.
- ^ Senpai (12 February 2026). "Senpai Respins / Blog: Updating Respin from MX-23.6_rpi to MX-25.1_rpi". Senpai Respins Blog. sourceforge.net. Retrieved 13 February 2026.
- ^ MacArthur, Glenn (22 January 2016). "AV Linux MX Edition". bandshed.net. Retrieved 17 June 2025.
- ^ "DistroWatch.com:". distrowatch.com. Retrieved 2 June 2024.
- ^ Nakamura, Tsuyoshi 'Freja' (18 November 2025). "extrox - MX Linux Based Distro". extrox. Japan. Retrieved 21 November 2025.
- ^ Smith, Jesse (2026). "DistroWatch.com: extrox". distrowatch.com. Copenhagen, DK. Retrieved 11 January 2026.
- ^ Smith, Jesse (5 May 2025). "DistroWatch.com: iDeal OS". distrowatch.com. Retrieved 17 June 2025.
- ^ MacArthur, Glenn (16 May 2025). "Change of Plan: MX Moksha 23.6 Released!". forum.mxlinux.org. Retrieved 17 June 2025.
External links
[edit]- Official website
- MX Linux at DistroWatch
- Monthly MX Linux snapshots
- MX Linux support forum
- MX Linux support group on facebook
- A full list of substantive reviews, both written and video, that are known to MX Linux developers can be found with summaries on this page.
- The complete feature list can be seen on this page.
- The final MXRPi “Ragout2” Orange Pi and Raspberry Pi.
MX Linux
View on GrokipediaHistory
Beginnings
MX Linux originated from discussions among members of the MEPIS community in December 2013, prompted by the discontinuation of MEPIS Linux development earlier that year.[6][7] As MEPIS, a Debian-based distribution known for its user-friendly setup, ceased active development, community members sought viable alternatives to preserve its legacy of accessible computing.[8] In early 2014, developers from the antiX project joined these discussions, contributing lightweight system components and expertise in creating efficient, resource-conscious distributions.[6] AntiX, itself a derivative of MEPIS focused on older hardware, provided foundational tools that emphasized performance on modest systems, helping shape MX Linux's initial direction toward stability and simplicity.[9] The collaboration culminated in the first release, MX-14, on March 24, 2014, which was exclusively 32-bit and designed to fit on a single CD for easy distribution and installation.[10][11] This initial version was based on Debian 7 "Wheezy," the stable branch at the time, incorporating antiX's live system capabilities to enable bootable media without extensive hardware demands.[10][11] March 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of MX-14's release, underscoring the distribution's evolution from its MEPIS and antiX roots into a mature, community-sustained project.[12] MX Linux operates as a cooperative effort between the antiX and MX communities, prioritizing user-driven development and funded solely through donations without any corporate sponsorship.[6][1] This model fosters ongoing contributions from volunteers, ensuring focus on practical enhancements over commercial interests.[6]Release history
MX Linux adheres to a release cycle synchronized with Debian's stable branches, issuing major versions roughly every two years to incorporate the latest stable Debian base while maintaining stability.[13] Point releases occur periodically throughout the support period of each major version, delivering security patches, bug fixes, and minor feature enhancements without altering the core Debian foundation.[13] This approach ensures long-term support aligned with Debian's lifecycle, typically extending two to three years for main support and additional long-term security updates.[10] The inaugural release, MX-14, arrived in March 2014 based on Debian 7 "Wheezy," initially offering 32-bit support only for broader compatibility with older hardware.[6] Subsequent major releases transitioned architectures and introduced specialized editions, with hybrid support for both 32-bit (including PAE kernels for legacy systems) and 64-bit installations beginning with MX-15; 32-bit PAE options were maintained through the MX-23 series but discontinued starting with MX-25.[14][15] Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) editions, featuring newer kernels and graphics stacks for modern systems, were first introduced as dedicated ISOs with MX-21 in November 2021.[16] The following table summarizes key major releases, their codenames, initial release dates, and underlying Debian versions:| Version | Codename | Initial Release Date | Debian Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| MX-14 | Symbiosis | March 24, 2014 | 7 (Wheezy) |
| MX-15 | Fusion | December 24, 2015 | 8 (Jessie) |
| MX-16 | Metamorphosis | December 14, 2016 | 9 (Stretch) |
| MX-17 | Horizon | December 15, 2017 | 9 (Stretch) |
| MX-18 | Continuum | December 20, 2018 | 10 (Buster) |
| MX-19 | Patito feo | October 22, 2019 | 10 (Buster) |
| MX-21 | Wildflower | October 21, 2021 | 11 (Bullseye) |
| MX-23 | Libretto | July 31, 2023 | 12 (Bookworm) |
| MX-25 | Infinity | November 9, 2025 | 13 (Trixie) |
Design and Features
Core architecture
MX Linux is fundamentally based on the Debian Stable branch, which provides a foundation of high reliability and long-term support through rigorously tested packages. As of the MX-25 "Infinity" release in November 2025, it is based on Debian 13 "Trixie". This choice ensures that the distribution inherits Debian's emphasis on stability, with updates focused on security and bug fixes rather than frequent feature additions.[17][18] At its core, MX Linux integrates key components from antiX, a lightweight Debian derivative, to create a hybrid architecture that blends minimalism with enhanced user-friendliness. The antiX base contributes to a low-resource boot process and efficient system initialization, allowing MX Linux to run effectively on older hardware while supporting modern setups. This integration enables optional init systems, including sysVinit as the default for reduced overhead and systemd for compatibility with applications that require it, facilitated by the systemd-shim for seamless switching. Separate ISO variants are available for each init system starting with MX-25.[19][20][15] Kernel options in MX Linux prioritize stability with the Debian 6.12 LTS series (such as 6.12.48 in MX-25), including non-PAE variants for 32-bit systems and secured configurations for improved protection. For users with newer hardware, the Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) repository provides access to updated kernels, such as the 6.16 Liquorix variant in MX-25, ensuring broader compatibility without compromising the core stable base. The distribution supports installations on both UEFI and legacy BIOS (MBR) systems through the graphical Calamares installer, which handles partitioning and bootloader setup for diverse firmware environments.[5][21][17] This midweight design philosophy positions MX Linux as a balanced operating system, optimizing performance by avoiding unnecessary bloat while allowing easy extensions for additional features, making it suitable for a wide range of users from beginners to advanced.[1]MX Tools
MX Tools form a suite of graphical utilities developed by the MX Linux team to simplify system administration, customization, and troubleshooting for users of this Debian-based distribution. These tools are designed to provide intuitive interfaces for tasks that might otherwise require command-line intervention, enhancing accessibility for both novice and experienced users while maintaining the lightweight nature of the system. They are particularly beneficial for beginners, offering features like snapshots and backups for data reliability, as well as easy fixes for common issues, contributing to the distribution's overall dependability. They are integrated into the desktop environment, accessible via the menu under MX Tools, and are available in both live sessions and installed systems.[22] The MX Package Installer serves as a user-friendly frontend for APT-based package management, allowing installations from DEB files, Flatpaks, and various repositories without replacing traditional tools like Synaptic but complementing them for quick access. Leveraging the stable Debian base, it facilitates easy installation of compatibility layers such as Wine for running Windows applications, with MX repositories providing wine-staging versions that resolve dependencies automatically. It features tabs for Popular Apps (categorized browsing and search with terminal output), Stable Repo (full catalog access), MX Test Repo (experimental packages with automatic source handling), Debian Backports (newer hardware support), and Flatpaks (via Flathub, with initial setup requiring about 2GB). Users can install, uninstall, or reinstall packages, manage dependencies with apt autoremove, and view logs at /var/log/mxpi.log; it supports one-click extras for common add-ons like multimedia codecs from the Debian Multimedia repository.[23][22][24] MX Tweak provides centralized control over desktop customization, including theming, panel layout, and login manager configurations, particularly for Xfce and Fluxbox environments. Key options include switching between light/dark themes for GTK, icons, and window managers; saving custom theme sets; adjusting panel positions (top/bottom for horizontal, left/right for vertical) with backup/restore functions; and resetting LightDM to MX defaults. Additional tabs cover compositing (Xfwm with VSync modes or Compton configuration), display settings, Fluxbox menus, and Plasma tweaks, making it easier to achieve a personalized look without manual editing of configuration files.[25] MX Boot Repair is the recommended tool for addressing most bootloader issues, supporting both BIOS (legacy) and UEFI systems by reinstalling GRUB, regenerating configurations, and backing up/restoring boot blocks. Launched from a live session via the menu, it offers options to repair GRUB on the installed system, detect operating systems, and handle common boot failures; related maintenance is extended through MX Boot Options, which allows installing GRUB themes and updating boot menus for simpler startup customization. For advanced customizations such as setting GRUB video resolution (e.g., viaGRUB_GFXMODE="1024x768" and GRUB_GFXPAYLOAD_LINUX=keep) or enabling safe graphics mode (e.g., adding nomodeset to GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX_DEFAULT for graphics driver issues), users can edit /etc/default/grub and run sudo update-grub to apply changes permanently. Direct editing of /boot/grub/grub.cfg is not recommended, as it is automatically generated and changes will be overwritten. Temporary changes for testing (such as adding nomodeset) can be made at the GRUB menu by highlighting the entry, pressing 'e' to edit, modifying the line starting with 'linux', and booting with Ctrl+X or F10. While kernel updates are typically handled via the package manager or live-usb kernel updater for persistent media, Boot Repair ensures compatibility post-installation.[26][27][28][29][30]
MX Snapshot enables the creation of persistent backups from live or installed sessions, producing ISO files for restoration, sharing, or cloning to new hardware. It supports personal snapshots (including /home with customizable exclusions like cache or documents) and system snapshots (apps only, resetting user accounts for distribution), automatically generalizing the ISO by removing machine-specific files such as fstab or drivers. The tool requires sufficient free space (compressed output may reduce needs) and is useful for migrating setups, though it excludes hardware-dependent elements like Nvidia drivers to ensure broad compatibility.[31]
Additional utilities include MX Live USB Maker, which creates bootable media from ISO files, existing USBs, CDs/DVDs, or running live systems, with options for persistence and LUKS encryption in full-featured mode. MX Repo Manager streamlines repository handling by selecting the fastest mirrors for MX and Debian sources using netselect-apt, enabling/disabling individual repos (e.g., for backports or multimedia), and updating sources.list files with minimal effort. These tools collectively support seamless integration with the underlying APT system for repository and package operations.[32][33]
MX Tools also support graphics driver management through the Display Driver Manager (ddm-mx), which handles the installation of proprietary NVIDIA drivers. For systems with NVIDIA Optimus hybrid graphics, where the integrated GPU (iGPU) manages the display and the discrete NVIDIA GPU (dGPU) provides additional performance, PRIME render offload can be configured without the nvidia-prime package. The nvidia-run-mx wrapper script, part of the ddm-mx toolset, enables running specific applications on the NVIDIA GPU by handling the necessary environment variables: nvidia-run-mx <application> (e.g., nvidia-run-mx steam). Alternatively, users can manually set the environment variables __NV_PRIME_RENDER_OFFLOAD=1 __GLX_VENDOR_LIBRARY_NAME=nvidia <application>. For Vulkan applications, __VK_LAYER_NV_optimus=NVIDIA_only may be added if required. This approach ensures power efficiency by offloading rendering only for selected applications to the dGPU while the iGPU handles display output, assuming proprietary NVIDIA drivers are installed via the MX NVIDIA driver tool.[34][35]
In MX-25 "Infinity" (released November 2025), MX Tools have seen enhancements such as separate ISO variants for systemd and sysVinit, expanded MX Cleanup for removing unused drivers, a new mx-updater tool, default-enabled hibernation support for better power management, and improved localization of MX applications into multiple languages, broadening accessibility.[22][5]
Package management
MX Linux primarily utilizes the Advanced Package Tool (APT) for software installation, updates, and management, drawing from the Debian Stable repositories (Debian 13 "Trixie" as of MX-25) to ensure stability and reliability. This includes the main Debian trixie repositories for core packages, along with security updates from security.debian.org, which are configured by default to provide timely patches for vulnerabilities.[36] In addition, MX Linux incorporates its own repositories hosted at mxrepo.com, which supply MX-specific tools, themes, and enhancements not found in standard Debian sources, such as customized desktop integrations and utilities.[36] These MX repositories are divided into main (for stable packages), test (for experimental features, disabled by default), and AHS (antiX hotfixes for hardware support, also disabled initially).[36] To extend package availability, MX Linux supports Debian backports for newer versions of select software while maintaining overall stability; these are included but commented out in the default configuration, allowing users to enable them via graphical tools if needed.[36] Flatpak integration is built-in starting from MX Linux 18, enabling containerized applications from Flathub; users can install the Flatpak runtime through the MX Package Installer and add the remote repository during first boot or setup for seamless access to a broader app catalog. Snap packages are optionally supported but require additional configuration, as MX Linux defaults to sysVinit rather than systemd, potentially complicating snapd installation without switching boot modes.[37] AppImages are natively runnable without installation, providing a portable alternative for software distribution, though they lack deep system integration.[38] The primary graphical frontend for package management is the MX Package Installer, a user-friendly tool that allows searching the full Debian and MX repositories, installing DEB packages, and automatically resolving dependencies.[23] It supports bulk operations, such as updating all packages or cleaning up unused dependencies with commands likeapt autoremove, and includes tabs for Stable repos, MX Test, Backports, and Flatpaks to streamline source management.[23] Complementary tools like Synaptic Package Manager offer advanced filtering and pinning options to hold specific packages or prioritize repositories. The MX Repo Manager further simplifies repository handling by testing and selecting the fastest mirrors for Debian and MX sources, enabling or disabling individual entries like Debian Multimedia with one click.[33]
Security is prioritized through signed repositories for both Debian and MX sources, ensuring package integrity during downloads and installations via GPG keys.[36] Automatic security updates are facilitated by the default inclusion of the Debian security repository, with notifications and one-click application available through the MX Package Installer or apt-notifier. Tools within APT and the MX Repo Manager allow managing held packages or pinning to prevent unintended upgrades, enhancing control over system stability.[33]
Unlike pure Debian installations, MX Linux streamlines the setup of multimedia codecs and proprietary drivers through dedicated one-click installers, such as the MX Codecs Installer, which adds libdvdcss2 for DVD playback and other restricted formats from Debian Multimedia without manual repository tweaks.[39] Proprietary graphics drivers, like those for NVIDIA, can be installed via the ddm-mx tool, which automates the process from the appropriate repositories with dependency resolution. This pre-configuration reduces post-installation hurdles for users needing hardware acceleration or media support.[23]
Editions and Compatibility
Desktop environments
MX Linux offers three primary desktop editions: XFCE, KDE Plasma, and Fluxbox, each tailored to different user preferences for performance, features, and resource efficiency.[22] All editions use the Xorg display server by default, rather than Wayland.[1] The XFCE edition serves as the default, providing a midweight desktop environment that balances speed, low resource consumption, and visual appeal.[1] It features an idle RAM usage typically under 1 GB, with optimized configurations achieving as low as 400–600 MB, making it suitable for low-spec hardware while maintaining an attractive interface with customizable elements like the Whisker menu for quick application access and search.[1][40][41] Its clean, customizable interface can be themed to resemble Windows with minimal tweaks.[42] The Whisker menu enhances usability by allowing users to pin favorites, view recent items, and integrate search actions directly from the panel.[41] Due to its Debian base, the XFCE edition provides easy access to Wine for running Windows applications, with MX Tools facilitating the installation process.[24] The KDE Plasma edition, introduced with MX-19, caters to users seeking a feature-rich environment with modern visual effects, such as smooth animations and widget-based customization.[43] It emphasizes integration with KDE applications like the Dolphin file manager and KDE Connect for seamless device synchronization, though it requires higher resources, with recommendations of at least 2 GB RAM for optimal performance due to idle usage around 750 MB or more.[1][44] Plasma's desktop offers extensive theming options and productivity tools, appealing to those prioritizing aesthetics and functionality over minimalism.[45] For lightweight setups, the Fluxbox edition employs a minimalist window manager that prioritizes speed and low overhead, ideal for older hardware with resource usage significantly lower than full desktop environments.[1] It draws from the efficient design principles of antiX-based configurations, incorporating elements like tint2 panels and rofi-based menu management for a streamlined yet functional interface.[46] Fluxbox supports traditional and enhanced modes, allowing users to toggle between basic window management and added GUI features for better accessibility.[46] Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) variants are available specifically for the XFCE edition, featuring newer kernels and graphics stacks to accommodate cutting-edge hardware like recent GPUs and processors.[22][5] These variants enable better compatibility without altering the core desktop characteristics. No AHS option exists for KDE Plasma or Fluxbox.[22] All editions include pre-installed themes for consistent visual styling across applications and desktops, along with Conky widgets for system monitoring that can be easily configured or added via the menu.[47] The MX Tweak tool facilitates seamless switching between themes, compositing options, and display settings, supporting multi-monitor configurations through built-in display managers.[25][48] Accessibility features, such as the Orca screen reader and screen magnifier, are integrated across editions to ensure usability for diverse needs.[49] As of MX-25 (November 2025), all editions use systemd by default, with sysVinit variants available only for XFCE and Fluxbox.[5]System requirements
MX Linux has modest minimum hardware requirements, enabling it to run on older systems while performing well on modern hardware. The base requirements include at least 1 GB of RAM, 8 GB of storage space, and a processor equivalent to an Intel Pentium 4 or AMD Athlon 64.[50] A 3D-capable graphics card is required for hardware-accelerated rendering in desktop environments that support compositing effects.[1] For optimal performance, an SSD with at least 20 GB of space is recommended, as it significantly improves I/O operations compared to traditional hard drives.[51] In previous releases (up to MX-23), support for 32-bit PAE kernels allows MX Linux to operate on legacy x86 hardware lacking physical address extension, while 64-bit builds target contemporary systems with better efficiency; as of MX-25, official ISOs are 64-bit only.[22][15] The Fluxbox edition is particularly lightweight, viable for basic tasks on systems with as little as 512 MB of RAM, making it suitable for reviving very old machines.[51] In contrast, the XFCE and Fluxbox editions recommend 2 GB of RAM, whereas the KDE edition suggests 2 GB or more to handle its richer interface without lag.[50][52] The KDE variant also performs best with a multi-core CPU and dedicated graphics processing unit to ensure smooth operation of animations and multitasking.[52] The XFCE edition is optimized for low-spec hardware, with idle RAM usage around 700 MB that can be reduced to 400–600 MB in minimal setups.[53][40] Installation requires bootable media such as a USB 2.0 drive or DVD, with a network connection advised post-installation for applying updates and additional packages.[54]Installation and Usage
Live session
The live session in MX Linux allows users to boot directly from an ISO image on a USB drive or DVD, providing immediate access to a complete desktop environment without requiring any installation on the host computer. This environment is based on the antiX live system, modified in MX-25 to support systemd, which loads a compressed squashfs filesystem into RAM for optimal performance and portability.[5] Users can explore the full feature set of MX Linux, including its default applications and graphical interface, making it ideal for initial evaluation.[55] Hardware detection occurs automatically upon boot, with the live system loading necessary drivers for most peripherals such as network interfaces, audio devices, and input hardware. For systems with very recent components like newer GPUs or CPUs, MX Linux offers Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) ISO variants that include updated kernels—such as Linux 6.16 in MX-25 AHS releases—and enhanced graphics drivers like Mesa, ensuring compatibility without manual intervention. These AHS images are available alongside standard ISOs and are particularly useful for testing on modern hardware platforms.[5][16][56] Persistence is supported through dedicated USB configurations, transforming the read-only default filesystem into a writable one where changes, such as installed software or user files, are saved across reboots. This is achieved by overlaying a persistent storage layer on the USB device, allowing the live session to function like a portable operating system; for example, applications added during one session remain available in subsequent boots. Without persistence, the session resets to its original state on reboot, preserving system integrity.[57][55] Several MX Tools are integrated into the live environment to enhance usability and customization. The MX Live USB Maker utility enables the creation of bootable media from an ISO, with options for persistence modes like "full-featured writable" to support saving changes directly to the USB. The MX Snapshot tool captures the current live session state into a new bootable ISO, useful for backing up configurations or creating custom distributions. For troubleshooting, the live-usb-kernel-updater (also known as the kernel changer) allows seamless kernel swaps or updates within the session, such as installing a newer version for better hardware compatibility.[32][57][55] In contrast to an installed system, the live session operates primarily in a RAM-based, read-only mode by default to avoid host modifications, though persistence mitigates this by enabling file and package retention on removable media. This setup provides a risk-free trial of the selected desktop edition, such as XFCE or KDE, without committing to permanent changes. Common use cases for the live session include hardware compatibility testing on unfamiliar machines, data recovery operations via included tools like file managers and boot repair utilities, and establishing a portable workstation that can be carried between devices. This non-destructive approach facilitates seamless transitions to a full installation if desired, leveraging the tested configuration.[57][58]Installed system
The MX Linux installed system is set up using the Calamares graphical installer, a distribution-independent framework that provides a user-friendly interface for system installation.[1] This installer handles disk partitioning through automated or manual modes, supporting both UEFI and legacy BIOS boot modes, and allows users to create a full installation, custom partition layout, or install alongside an existing operating system such as Windows. As of MX-25 (released November 9, 2025), it includes a redesigned interface with a new "replace existing installation" option that preserves user home directories using fstab configurations, automatic zram swap setup for improved performance, and support for 64-bit UEFI Secure Boot on standard kernel ISOs.[5][59] While zram swap is configured automatically during installation in recent versions, users may manually unmask and enable the service for custom configurations or troubleshooting with the commandssudo systemctl unmask zramswap.service followed by sudo systemctl enable zramswap.service (and sudo systemctl start zramswap.service to activate it immediately if desired).[60] During the process, users configure basic settings including username, password, and optional encryption for the home directory using LUKS, which encrypts personal files while leaving the root filesystem unencrypted by default.[61]
Upon completion of the installation, the system performs automatic hardware detection via the Linux kernel and udev, ensuring drivers for graphics, networking, and peripherals are loaded without manual intervention in most cases.[62] The first boot presents options for setting locale and keyboard layout, checking for initial updates through the APT package manager, and enabling Flatpak support for additional software repositories if desired.[63] Unlike the live session, the installed system features a full read-write root filesystem with persistent storage across reboots, eliminating the squashfs overlay used in live mode, and utilizes systemd as the default init system, with optional sysVinit variants available for a lighter, more efficient boot process.[5][19]
Upgrades within point releases, such as from MX-25 to MX-25.1 (as of November 2025), are handled seamlessly through in-place updates via the Synaptic Package Manager or command-line APT, incorporating security patches, kernel improvements, and feature enhancements without requiring a reinstall.[13] For major version upgrades aligned with new Debian stable releases, such as from MX-23 (Debian 12) to MX-25 (Debian 13), a fresh installation is recommended due to underlying base changes, though users can migrate data from previous /home directories.[64]
Security in the installed system includes optional firewall configuration with UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall), which is pre-installed but disabled by default to prioritize ease of initial setup; users can enable it via MX Tools for basic incoming traffic denial.[65] Encrypted home directories, when selected during Calamares setup, provide default protection for user data using the login passphrase as the decryption key, integrating seamlessly with the desktop environment without additional post-install steps.[66]
A known issue in the Calamares installer is the error "Failed to prepare required partitions". This error commonly occurs when the installer selects the live USB drive as the target installation device instead of the internal hard drive.[67] Other frequent causes include corrupted partition tables (such as damaged GPT or MBR structures), hardware detection conflicts, or dual-boot configurations where Secure Boot is not disabled in BIOS/UEFI settings and Windows Fast Startup remains enabled.[68][69] Users encountering this issue should verify the target drive in the installer's selection dropdown and consider the custom partitioning option for manual control. For detailed troubleshooting, consult the MX Linux community forums, where numerous resolved cases are documented.
Maintenance features
MX Linux provides a user-friendly update process primarily through the MX Package Installer, a graphical interface that facilitates the installation of security patches, kernel updates, and synchronization with repositories. Users can access the "Updates" tab to check for available packages, apply security fixes, and perform full system upgrades with a single click, minimizing the need for command-line intervention. Additionally, the MX Updater (formerly MX Apt-Notifier) automates repository checks via a cron job that runs at randomized intervals to notify users of pending updates without requiring manual initiation.[23][70] For troubleshooting common post-installation issues, MX Linux includes specialized tools such as MX Boot Repair, which addresses bootloader problems by reinstalling GRUB in both UEFI and legacy BIOS modes, regenerating configuration files like grub.cfg, and handling fstab-related boot failures. This tool also supports backing up and restoring boot blocks for legacy systems. While MX Boot Repair handles most bootloader issues automatically, advanced users can make permanent GRUB customizations by editing the /etc/default/grub file rather than directly modifying the auto-generated /boot/grub/grub.cfg (which will be overwritten on updates). For example, to set the GRUB menu video resolution, add or modify GRUB_GFXMODE="desired_resolution" (supported modes can be listed using vbeinfo in the GRUB shell or hwinfo --framebuffer); to enable safe graphics mode for issues like black screens, add nomodeset to GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX_DEFAULT (e.g., "quiet splash nomodeset"). After changes, runsudo update-grub to regenerate the configuration. For temporary testing of boot parameters, users can highlight the entry at the GRUB menu, press 'e' to edit, add parameters to the line starting with 'linux', and boot with Ctrl+X or F10. Complementing this, MX Cleanup aids in disk maintenance by removing old logs, emptying the trash, clearing APT cache, and analyzing disk usage via integrated tools like Baobab, helping to resolve space-related errors. Log viewing is facilitated through standard Linux utilities accessible via /var/log directories, with graphical support from applications like Quick System Info for boot and system logs.[26][71][72]
Backup and recovery options in MX Linux emphasize reliability and ease of use, with MX Snapshot enabling the creation of bootable ISO images for full system backups. It supports two modes: personal snapshots that include /home directories (with customizable exclusions for caches and logs) and system snapshots that exclude user data for redistribution purposes, ensuring compressed, restorable images of the entire installation. For incremental backups, Timeshift is readily available in the repositories, allowing scheduled snapshots of system files and settings to facilitate quick recovery from configuration errors.[31][73]
Performance tuning is streamlined via MX Tweak, a centralized tool for optimizing desktop resources, including compositor adjustments for reduced latency, theme and panel customizations to minimize overhead, and setup for features like hibernation to manage power and memory efficiently. It also provides quick access to monitoring resources such as CPU and RAM usage through integrated Xfce settings, enabling users to fine-tune for better responsiveness on varied hardware.[25]
MX Linux aligns its support lifecycle with Debian Stable releases, providing approximately two to three years of active maintenance per major version, including security updates and bug fixes. The community extends this through backports and custom patches, ensuring compatibility and stability beyond the base Debian timeline without introducing instability.[13]
Remote desktop access
MX Linux uses Xorg by default as its display server (rather than Wayland). To set up remote desktop access without using xrdp (which provides the RDP protocol), several compatible alternatives are available for Xorg-based systems:- x11vnc: Shares the existing Xorg desktop session and is often recommended for simple remote sharing of the current active session.
- TigerVNC or TightVNC: Provide virtual desktop sessions, allowing users to connect to a separate desktop instance rather than the physical display.
- NoMachine: Delivers high-performance remote access with a free version available, noted for superior speed and additional features compared to standard VNC solutions.
