The highly anticipated release of Debian 12, codenamed Bookworm, is finally here. After an extensive two-year development cycle since the launch of version 11, this new iteration of Debian, renowned as one of the top Linux distributions, is now available for all users. If you’re considering a transition away from Windows 11, we’ll provide you with an overview of the exciting features and updates found in this latest release, as well as a guide on how to download and install it on your PC.
However, it’s important to note that, as we mentioned last week, Debian 12 does come with over 100 unresolved issues. While these are minor bugs, they may impact the overall user experience of this distribution. For a more stable and refined experience, it is advisable to wait a few more weeks until Debian version 12.1 arrives in July. This upcoming update will address these issues and provide an even more reliable operating system for users.
What’s new in Debian 12
One of the notable and somewhat controversial features of the new Debian 12, Bookworm, is the inclusion of non-free software in the ISO image. Previously, Debian prided itself on exclusively offering free software, but with Bookworm, users now have the option to install proprietary software if needed. This means that tasks such as enabling graphics drivers or Wi-Fi cards can be done directly from the ISO without the need for additional downloads. The default desktop environment for Bookworm is GNOME, specifically version 43. However, users have the flexibility to choose from other updated desktop environments such as Pipewire, WirePlumber, DE Plasma, LXDE, LXQt, MATE, and Xfce.
In terms of the Kernel, Debian has opted for version 6.1. Although it may not be the latest version available (the current one being 6.3), version 6.1 provides support until 2027. Additionally, this version has removed approximately 10% of the packages included in version 11 as they were deemed obsolete and unnecessary. On the other hand, Bookworm has introduced over 11,000 new packages, resulting in a total package count of nearly 65,000 for this distribution.
Debian 12, Bookworm, brings several notable changes to the Linux distribution:
1. Adwaita Theme with “Emerald” Wallpaper: Debian 12 features the Adwaita theme accompanied by a new abstract wallpaper called “Emerald.”
2. New Fonts, Including Google Fonts: Users will find a selection of new fonts, including the addition of Google Fonts, offering a fresh typography experience.
3. Enhanced Malloc Implementation: Bookworm introduces an improved implementation of malloc, enhancing memory allocation and management.
4. Syslog Daemon Not Installed by Default: Unlike previous versions, Debian 12 does not include the Syslog Daemon as a default component.
5. GRUB Configuration Change: By default, GRUB no longer runs os-prober, altering the boot configuration process.
Furthermore, Debian 12 includes a set of standard programs and tools:
– LibreOffice 7.4.5.1: The latest version of LibreOffice, the popular office suite, is included.
– Evolution 3.46.4-2: Debian 12 features Evolution version 3.46.4-2, the email and personal information management software.
– Transmission 3.0: The BitTorrent client, Transmission, is included in its latest version.
– Mozilla Firefox ESR: Debian 12 provides Mozilla Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) as the default web browser.
Developers will also benefit from updated dependencies and tools, such as:
– Nginx 1.22: The web server software Nginx is updated to version 1.22.
– Emacs 28.2: The text editor Emacs is upgraded to version 28.2.
– PHP 8.2: Debian 12 includes PHP version 8.2, a widely used scripting language.
– systemd 252: The system and service manager systemd is updated to version 252.
– Python 3.11.2: The programming language Python is upgraded to version 3.11.2.
– Perl 5.36: Debian 12 features Perl version 5.36, a high-level programming language.
– Vim 9.0: The text editor Vim sees an update to version 9.0.
Download and install
Debian 12 ‘Bookworm’ is now available for all users who wish to experience this excellent Linux distribution, and the best part is that it can be downloaded and installed completely free of charge. To get started, simply visit the official website and download the latest available ISO. If you require a smaller or older hardware-compatible image, you will also find it on the website.
Once the ISO file is downloaded, you can proceed with the installation by creating a bootable USB drive and starting your computer from it. The installation wizard is straightforward, and the entire process should only take a few minutes.
If you are already using Debian 11 and want to upgrade to version 12, you can follow these steps:
1. Open the “sources.list” file by running the command “sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list”.
2. Modify the “deb” and “deb-src” lines to the following:
“`
deb http://deb.debian.org/debian/ bookworm main non-free contrib
deb-src http://deb.debian.org/debian/ bookworm main non-free contrib
“`
3. Execute the following commands to update, clean, and reboot your system:
“`
sudo apt update
sudo apt full-upgrade
sudo apt update
sudo apt autoremove
sudo apt clean
“`
4. After the reboot, your Debian 12 ‘Bookworm’ will be up and running smoothly.