Table of Content – Essential Linux App Categories
- 1. Document Editing & Office Work
- 2. Reading & eBook Management
- 3. Web Browsing & Internet File Transfers
- 4. Image Creation & Graphic Design
- 5. Multimedia Playback, Editing & Recording
- 6. Screen Tools & Display Comfort
- 7. Backup, Restore & Storage Management
- 8. System Cleaning & Resource Monitoring
- 9. File Access & Navigation
- 10. Quick Access & Usability Enhancers
- 11. Security & Threat Detection
- 12. Running Other Operating Systems

Linux gives you the freedom to shape your system the way you want — but having the right apps makes all the difference. This handpicked collection brings together the most useful tools for everyday tasks, so you can enjoy a smooth, secure, and productive Linux experience without the guesswork. Whether you’re working, creating, or exploring, these apps help you get the job done with ease.
#1 Document Editing & Office Work
1.1 LibreOffice
LibreOffice is a powerful, free office suite that helps you create and edit documents, spreadsheets, presentations, drawings, and even databases. It’s fully compatible with Microsoft Office file formats — so you can open, edit, and save Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without any hassle.
Whether you’re writing letters, managing a budget, preparing a slideshow, or simply taking notes — LibreOffice has you covered.
- All-in-one solution: No need to install separate apps for text, sheets, or slides — it does it all.
- Works offline: Unlike some cloud suites, you can work anytime, anywhere — even without internet.
- No hidden costs: It’s completely free, with no license fees or subscriptions.
- Trusted alternative: It’s a dependable choice for individuals, schools, and businesses who want full office functionality without paying for Microsoft Office.
LibreOffice makes everyday document tasks easy, flexible, and budget-friendly — a smart choice for any Linux user!
1.2 ONLYOFFICE
ONLYOFFICE is a modern, free office suite designed for creating and editing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. What makes it stand out is its smooth integration with cloud services like Nextcloud and ownCloud — letting you work on files stored online as easily as local files. It also offers great compatibility with Microsoft Office formats, so sharing files is effortless.
If you’re someone who loves keeping documents accessible across devices — or if you collaborate with others — ONLYOFFICE is a fantastic fit.
- Cloud-ready: Easily open and save files directly from cloud storage.
- Collaboration-friendly: Work on the same document with others in real-time when connected to supported cloud platforms.
- Full office tools in one package: Create polished documents, smart spreadsheets, and engaging presentations.
- No cost, no lock-in: A reliable choice if you want office tools without licensing fees.
ONLYOFFICE brings together powerful editing and cloud convenience — a great everyday companion for Linux users who value flexibility and teamwork.
1.3 Thunderbird
Thunderbird is a free, open-source email client that helps you manage your emails, contacts, calendars, and tasks — all in one easy-to-use application. It supports multiple email accounts (like Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook), and works great offline too.
If you send emails, schedule meetings, or keep track of contacts, Thunderbird gives you a simple, clutter-free way to stay organized.
- Unified inbox: Handle all your email accounts in one place.
- Built-in calendar: Manage appointments and reminders without extra apps.
- Customizable & extendable: Add features through add-ons, or tweak the look to match your style.
- Works offline: Read, write, and search emails even without internet access.
- No hidden costs: A dependable pick if you want email and calendar tools without subscriptions.
Thunderbird is like your personal communication hub — helping you stay on top of emails, events, and tasks every single day.
1.4 Joplin
Joplin is a free, open-source note-taking app that lets you jot down ideas, to-do lists, meeting notes, or even long articles. It supports markdown for rich formatting, and it can sync your notes across devices using cloud services like Dropbox, Nextcloud, or OneDrive — all while keeping your data private with encryption.
If you like staying organized, Joplin makes it easy to capture thoughts and manage tasks wherever you are.
- Flexible notes: Create everything from quick reminders to detailed notebooks.
- Cross-device sync: Access your notes on desktop, phone, or tablet — seamlessly.
- Privacy-first: Your notes stay yours — with optional end-to-end encryption.
- No cost, no ads: A smart alternative to commercial note apps.
Joplin helps you stay organized, focused, and in control of your notes — perfect for daily personal or work use.
1.5 SimpleNote
SimpleNote is a free, lightweight note-taking app designed for quick, distraction-free writing. It’s all about simplicity — you open it, type your thoughts or to-do lists, and your notes are instantly saved and synced across devices via the cloud.
If you need a fast, no-fuss way to capture ideas or reminders, SimpleNote delivers beautifully.
- Quick and easy: Open, type, done — no complex menus or formatting to slow you down.
- Instant sync: Your notes are updated automatically across desktop, mobile, or web.
- Searchable: Find what you need in seconds, even with hundreds of notes.
- Completely free: A clean, reliable alternative to cluttered note apps.
SimpleNote is perfect for jotting down thoughts on the fly — an effortless daily companion for staying organized.
#2 Reading & eBook Management
2.1 Calibre
Calibre is a free, open-source eBook manager that helps you organize, read, convert, and transfer eBooks between devices. It supports almost every eBook format and lets you easily sync your library with eReaders like Kindle, Kobo, and others.
If you enjoy reading or managing digital books, Calibre makes the entire experience smooth and flexible.
- Library organizer: Keep your eBooks neatly sorted, searchable, and accessible.
- Format converter: Turn files into the format your eReader prefers (e.g., EPUB to MOBI).
- eReader sync: Load books onto your device with just a click.
- Customizable: Add covers, edit metadata, and tweak how your library looks.
Calibre is your all-in-one solution for managing eBooks — a must-have for Linux users who love reading digitally.
3 Web Browsing & Internet File Transfers
3.1 Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is a free, open-source web browser known for its focus on privacy, security, and flexibility. It gives you full control over your browsing experience, with powerful features like tracker blocking, customizable search, and a rich library of add-ons.
Every Linux user needs a reliable browser — Firefox checks all the right boxes.
- Privacy-first: Blocks trackers and unwanted scripts to protect your data.
- Highly customizable: Tailor your browser with themes, extensions, and settings that match your style.
- Cross-platform sync: Keep bookmarks, passwords, and history in sync across devices.
- Open-source and independent: A trustworthy alternative that puts users first, without hidden agendas.
Firefox offers a fast, secure, and flexible browsing experience — making it a smart everyday companion for Linux users.
3.2 Brave Browser
Brave Browser is a free, open-source web browser built on Chromium that focuses on privacy and speed. It blocks ads, trackers, and intrusive scripts automatically, making browsing faster and safer right out of the box.
If you want a browser that protects your privacy without needing extra setup, Brave delivers.
- Built-in ad and tracker blocking: Enjoy cleaner, faster browsing without third-party blockers.
- Chromium compatibility: Works with most Chrome extensions you might already use.
- Privacy by default: Shields you from fingerprinting, scripts, and unwanted tracking.
- Lightweight and fast: Loads pages quicker by stripping out unnecessary elements.
Brave gives you a speedy, clutter-free web experience — a reliable browser choice for Linux users who value privacy and efficiency.
3.3 FileZilla
FileZilla is a free, open-source FTP, SFTP, and FTPS client that helps you transfer files between your computer and remote servers. With its simple drag-and-drop interface, you can upload, download, and manage files on websites, NAS devices, or any server.
If you ever work with websites, servers, or network storage, FileZilla makes file transfers painless.
- User-friendly: Drag, drop, and manage files without complex commands.
- Secure connections: Supports encrypted SFTP/FTPS to keep your data safe during transfers.
- Queue management: Easily track multiple uploads and downloads.
- Cross-platform: Works the same way on Linux, Windows, and macOS.
FileZilla simplifies secure file transfers — a practical everyday tool for Linux users who work with remote files or servers.
3.4 Transmission
Transmission is a free, open-source BitTorrent client that helps you download and share files efficiently over peer-to-peer networks. It’s designed to be lightweight, fast, and incredibly easy to use without unnecessary clutter or ads.
If you download Linux ISOs, open-source software, or large files via torrents, Transmission makes the process simple and reliable.
- Clean, minimalist interface: No ads, no bloat — just fast torrenting.
- Low resource usage: Won’t slow down your system while running in the background.
- Magnet link support: Start downloads instantly with one click.
- Highly configurable: Control speed limits, schedules, and priorities as needed.
Transmission offers a smooth, no-fuss torrenting experience — a smart everyday tool for Linux users who download large or shared files.
3.5 qBittorrent
qBittorrent is a free, open-source BitTorrent client designed to provide all the features you need in a clean, user-friendly package. It offers advanced torrenting tools without ads, making it a favorite for Linux users who want both simplicity and control.
If you often download open-source software, media, or large files via torrents, qBittorrent is a reliable go-to.
- Ad-free experience: No distractions — just focused downloading.
- Feature-rich: Built-in search, IP filtering, torrent prioritization, and bandwidth controls.
- Lightweight: Uses minimal system resources while delivering powerful functionality.
- Magnet link and RSS support: Start downloads fast and automate tasks if you want.
qBittorrent combines power and simplicity — making torrent downloads easy and efficient for everyday Linux use.
4 Image Creation & Graphic Design
4.1 GIMP
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source image editor that lets you touch up photos, create graphics, design artwork, and handle just about any image editing task. It’s packed with tools similar to what you'd find in commercial software, without the cost.
Whether you’re adjusting a photo, creating a social media graphic, or designing something from scratch, GIMP has your back.
- Full editing toolkit: Crop, resize, retouch, add text, and apply filters easily.
- Supports layers & advanced features: Great for both quick edits and complex designs.
- Works with many file types: From PNG and JPEG to PSD and RAW formats.
- Highly customizable: Extend functionality with plugins or adjust the layout to fit your workflow.
GIMP gives Linux users a powerful, cost-free way to handle everyday image editing — from simple fixes to detailed creative projects.
4.2 Inkscape
Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor that helps you create and edit scalable designs like logos, icons, diagrams, and illustrations. It works with formats like SVG, making it perfect for projects that need clean, sharp graphics at any size.
If you ever need to create or edit graphics that look good at any size, Inkscape makes it simple.
- Precision drawing: Design logos, charts, flow diagrams, and icons without pixelation.
- Powerful tools: Supports layers, text, shapes, gradients, and advanced path operations.
- File compatibility: Works with SVG, PDF, EPS, PNG, and more.
- Flexible and free: A dependable alternative to expensive design software.
Inkscape helps Linux users create crisp, professional-quality graphics — an excellent everyday tool for personal and work projects alike.
4.3 Krita
Krita is a free, open-source digital painting and illustration app designed for artists, hobbyists, and anyone who loves to sketch or paint. It offers a natural drawing experience with a wide range of brushes, textures, and tools — all packed into an intuitive interface.
Whether you’re doodling, illustrating, or crafting detailed art, Krita provides a smooth, creative workspace.
- Rich brush engine: Choose from hundreds of brush presets or create your own.
- Layer support & blending modes: Build complex artwork with ease.
- Stabilizers for smooth lines: Great for freehand drawing and inking.
- Resource manager: Download or import brush packs and textures as you grow.
Krita brings powerful digital art tools to Linux users — perfect for anyone who enjoys expressing creativity, from casual sketches to serious illustrations.
5 Multimedia Playback, Editing & Recording
5.1 VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a free, open-source multimedia player that can play almost any audio or video format — no extra codecs or plugins needed. It’s lightweight, fast, and works the same across Linux, Windows, macOS, and more.
If you watch videos or listen to music on your Linux system, VLC is a go-to choice.
- Plays anything: MP4, MKV, MP3, FLAC, DVDs, network streams — it handles them all.
- Customizable playback: Adjust speed, audio sync, subtitles, and more with ease.
- Light on resources: Smooth performance even on modest hardware.
- No ads, no fuss: Just a clean, reliable media experience.
VLC gives Linux users a hassle-free way to enjoy media — making it a dependable, everyday player for all types of audio and video.
5.2 Kdenlive
Kdenlive (KDE Non-Linear Video Editor) is a free, open-source video editing software designed for creating and editing everything from personal clips to polished projects. It offers a multi-track timeline, a wide range of effects, and support for most video and audio formats.
If you ever work with video — trimming clips, adding text, or creating presentations — Kdenlive makes it easy.
- User-friendly timeline: Drag-and-drop editing with unlimited tracks.
- Built-in effects and transitions: Add titles, fades, color adjustments, and more.
- Format flexibility: Import/export almost any media type.
- Customizable layout: Adjust panels and tools to match your workflow.
Kdenlive gives Linux users a free, capable video editor — perfect for everyday video tasks, from quick edits to creative projects.
5.3 Audacity
Audacity is a free, open-source audio recorder and editor that lets you capture, mix, and fine-tune sound. It’s simple enough for basic tasks like trimming audio clips, yet powerful enough for creating podcasts, music samples, or voiceovers.
Whether you’re recording a quick voice memo, cleaning up audio, or experimenting with sound, Audacity makes it straightforward.
- Easy recording: Capture audio from your microphone or system sound.
- Basic editing tools: Cut, copy, paste, and adjust audio with precision.
- Effects at your fingertips: Add fade-ins, fade-outs, noise reduction, and more.
- Multi-track support: Work on layered audio projects when needed.
Audacity provides Linux users with a free, flexible way to handle audio — perfect for everything from simple recordings to detailed sound editing.
5.4 OBS Studio
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free, open-source app for screen recording and live streaming. It lets you capture your desktop, specific apps, webcam, and audio, and combine them into polished recordings or broadcasts.
Whether you’re creating tutorials, recording presentations, or sharing your screen in meetings, OBS Studio makes it effortless.
- Flexible recording: Capture full screen, windows, or specific areas.
- Layer sources: Combine webcam, screen, text, and images in one view.
- Custom scenes: Set up layouts and switch between them easily.
- No watermarks or limits: Produce clean videos with no hidden restrictions.
OBS Studio gives Linux users a professional-grade tool for screen recording and streaming — ideal for education, work, and creative projects.
5.5 Cheese / Kamoso
Cheese (GNOME-based) and Kamoso (KDE-based) are free, open-source webcam apps that let you take photos and record videos using your webcam. Both provide a simple, clean interface for quick captures without extra setup.
If you use a webcam — for selfies, ID photos, fun snapshots, or video clips — these apps keep it easy and hassle-free.
- Point, click, capture: Snap photos or record videos instantly.
- Apply fun effects: Cheese offers filters for playful captures.
- Minimal resource use: Works smoothly, even on low-end hardware.
- Integrated with desktop: Works seamlessly with GNOME (Cheese) or KDE (Kamoso).
Cheese and Kamoso give Linux users a quick, no-fuss way to use their webcam — great for everyday snapshots and simple recordings.
6 Screen Tools & Display Comfort
6.1 Flameshot
Flameshot is a free, open-source screenshot tool that lets you quickly capture your screen and annotate it on the fly. It’s designed to be simple, fast, and highly customizable, with easy access to drawing tools right after you take a shot.
If you ever need to share part of your screen — for work, support, tutorials, or fun — Flameshot makes it smooth and efficient.
- Instant annotation: Draw, highlight, add arrows, text, or blur sensitive info right after capture.
- Flexible capture: Select exactly the area you want — no cropping later.
- Keyboard shortcuts: Speed up your workflow with customizable hotkeys.
- Lightweight: Runs quietly in the background, ready when you need it.
Flameshot helps Linux users take clean, clear, and marked-up screenshots — a practical, time-saving tool for daily tasks.
6.2 Redshift / f.lux
Redshift and f.lux are free, open-source tools that adjust your screen’s color temperature based on the time of day. They reduce blue light in the evening, making your screen warmer and easier on the eyes — helping you avoid eye strain and sleep disruption.
If you spend long hours in front of your screen, these tools quietly protect your comfort and well-being.
- Automatic adjustment: Your display shifts color gradually as daylight fades.
- Customizable settings: Control how warm or cool your screen gets.
- Gentle on resources: Runs quietly without slowing down your system.
- Cross-platform consistency: Works across Linux, Windows, and macOS.
Redshift and f.lux help Linux users work more comfortably, day and night — great for anyone who values eye health and better sleep.
7 Backup, Restore & Storage Management
7.1 Timeshift
Timeshift is a free, open-source backup and restore tool that creates system snapshots. These snapshots let you roll your system back to a previous working state if something goes wrong — like after a bad update, driver install, or accidental configuration change.
If you want peace of mind while using your Linux system, Timeshift delivers just that.
- Snapshot protection: Easily restore your system to an earlier, healthy state.
- Automatic scheduling: Set it and forget it — Timeshift takes care of regular backups.
- Smart space management: Older snapshots are automatically deleted when space runs low.
- Simple interface: Create and restore snapshots in just a few clicks.
Timeshift gives Linux users a safety net — making it easy to recover from mistakes or problems without stress.
7.2 Deja Dup
Deja Dup is a free, open-source backup tool with a simple, user-friendly interface. It lets you back up your important files automatically to local drives, external disks, or cloud storage — and easily restore them when needed.
If you value your personal files and want an easy way to keep them safe, Deja Dup makes it effortless.
- Automatic backups: Set up a schedule and let it handle your backups quietly in the background.
- Cloud support: Save backups to Google Drive, Nextcloud, or other cloud services.
- Encryption: Protect your backups with passwords for extra security.
- One-click restore: Quickly get your files back in case of loss or damage.
Deja Dup offers Linux users an easy, dependable way to safeguard important files — a smart choice for daily data protection.
7.3 Grsync
Grsync is a free, open-source graphical frontend for rsync — the powerful Linux command-line tool for syncing files and directories. Grsync makes rsync’s advanced file syncing features accessible through a simple, easy-to-use interface.
If you want an easy way to keep folders, backups, or external drives in sync without worrying about complex commands, Grsync is a great fit.
- Visual simplicity: Set up and run sync jobs through clear checkboxes and options.
- Reliable syncing: Perfect for backing up or mirroring important data.
- Detailed feedback: See what’s happening during a sync — no surprises.
- Safe and efficient: Smartly copies only what’s changed to save time and bandwidth.
Grsync helps Linux users back up and sync data confidently — an easy daily tool for keeping files safe and organized.
7.4 Rclone
Rclone is a free, open-source command-line tool that helps you sync and manage files between your local system and cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Nextcloud, S3, and more. It’s like a all in one solution for cloud file operations.
If you store or back up files in the cloud, Rclone gives you full control without needing a browser or third-party app.
- Cloud flexibility: Works with dozens of popular cloud storage providers.
- Efficient syncing: Transfers only changed files to save time and bandwidth.
- Encrypted backups: Optionally protect your cloud files with encryption.
- Scripting ready: Perfect for automating your cloud sync tasks.
Rclone gives Linux users an efficient, secure way to manage and sync cloud files — a smart tool for daily data handling.
7.5 GNOME Disks / KDE Partition Manager
GNOME Disks and KDE Partition Manager are free, open-source utilities that let you manage your storage devices easily through a graphical interface. They help you view, format, resize, and create partitions on hard drives, SSDs, USB sticks, and SD cards — without needing command-line tools.
If you work with external drives, upgrade disks, or simply want to monitor and manage your storage safely, these tools make it stress-free.
- Easy disk setup: Format new drives or create partitions with a few clicks.
- Resize or delete partitions: Adjust space as your needs change.
- Health monitoring: Check S.M.A.R.T. data to spot potential hardware issues early.
- Mount/Unmount disks: Control when devices are active or safely removed.
GNOME Disks and KDE Partition Manager give Linux users a safe, straightforward way to handle storage — essential for everyday system and device management.
#8 System Cleaning & Resource Monitoring
8.1 BleachBit
BleachBit is a free, open-source system cleaner that helps you free up disk space and protect your privacy by securely deleting unnecessary files, cache, cookies, and logs from your system and applications.
If you want to keep your Linux system tidy, fast, and private, BleachBit makes it easy.
- Quick cleanup: Remove junk files, temporary data, and clutter in seconds.
- Privacy helper: Clear browser history, cookies, and passwords you don’t want saved.
- Secure deletion: Overwrite files to prevent recovery.
- Highly customizable: Choose exactly what you want cleaned — no accidental data loss.
BleachBit helps Linux users maintain a clean, efficient system — a simple tool for everyday care and privacy protection.
8.2 Htop
htop is a free, open-source, interactive system monitor for your terminal. It gives you a live, color-coded view of your CPU, memory, and process usage, making it easier to track what’s happening on your Linux system.
Whenever your system feels slow or you’re curious about what’s using your resources, htop gives instant answers in a clear, visual way.
- Real-time resource view: See CPU, RAM, swap, and processes at a glance.
- Easy process management: Kill, pause, or reprioritize tasks with simple key presses.
- User-friendly layout: Scroll, search, and sort processes quickly.
- Lightweight: Runs fast and smooth, even on older machines.
htop gives Linux users a clear window into their system’s health — a must-have tool for everyday monitoring and troubleshooting.
8.3 Synaptic Package Manager
Synaptic is a free, open-source graphical package management tool for Debian-based Linux systems. It lets you search, install, update, and remove software with just a few clicks — no terminal needed.
If you want a reliable, no-fuss way to manage software on your system, Synaptic makes it simple and precise.
- Browse and search easily: Find software from official repositories quickly.
- Full control: Install, remove, upgrade, or lock packages individually.
- Detailed info: See package descriptions, dependencies, and sizes before you act.
- Safe and tested: Works with your distro’s package system, so no surprises.
Synaptic helps Linux users handle software management the easy way — a practical everyday tool for keeping your system up to date and clutter-free.
#9 File Access & Navigation
9.1 Ranger / Midnight Commander
Ranger and Midnight Commander are free, open-source terminal-based file managers that let you browse, move, copy, delete, and organize files quickly — all without leaving the command line. Ranger offers a modern, minimal interface with a preview pane, while Midnight Commander brings a classic dual-pane layout.
If you like speed and precision when handling files, or if you work in the terminal regularly, these tools make your workflow smoother.
- Fast navigation: Move through directories and files far quicker than typing commands.
- Batch actions: Copy, move, delete, or rename groups of files with ease.
- Built-in previews: Ranger shows file previews; Midnight Commander offers detailed info in panes.
- Low resource usage: Lightweight and perfect even for older systems or remote connections.
Ranger and Midnight Commander help Linux users manage files more efficiently — great everyday tools for anyone who enjoys or relies on terminal work.
#10 Quick Access & Usability Enhancers
10.1 Synapse
Synapse is a free, open-source launcher that helps you quickly open applications, files, folders, or run commands by simply typing a few letters. It’s like having a lightning-fast search bar that’s always ready when you need it.
If you want to work faster and spend less time hunting through menus or file managers, Synapse boosts your efficiency.
- Instant access: Launch apps or open files in seconds with a few keystrokes.
- Simple interface: Minimal design that stays out of your way.
- Customizable plugins: Expand what Synapse can search or do.
- Lightweight: Uses very little system memory while always being ready.
Synapse helps Linux users work smarter and faster — a fantastic everyday tool for boosting productivity and saving time.
10.2 CopyQ
CopyQ is a free, open-source clipboard manager that records everything you copy — text, images, and more — letting you access and reuse past clipboard entries easily. It also supports organizing snippets, setting shortcuts, and using advanced search features.
If you frequently copy and paste different items across documents, web pages, and apps, CopyQ makes your workflow smoother and more reliable.
- Clipboard history: Retrieve previous clips without repeatedly copying them.
- Quick re-use: Insert saved snippets with shortcuts or a simple menu.
- Organized structure: Set up tabs, tags, or filters to keep clips tidy.
- Automation features: Use scripts and commands for advanced clip handling.
CopyQ helps Linux users handle copy-paste like professionals — saving time and reducing manual effort in everyday tasks.
10.3 Onboard / Florence
Onboard and Florence are free, open-source on-screen keyboards for Linux. Onboard is typically used in GNOME environments, while Florence is geared toward KDE users. These tools provide a fully functional virtual keyboard that you can use with touchscreens or when your physical keyboard isn’t available.
Even if you don’t have a touchscreen or accessibility needs, they can save the day in unexpected situations—like when your keyboard malfunctions or when you’re using a touchscreen laptop.
- Ready on demand: Pop up the keyboard with a click or tap whenever you need it.
- Custom layouts & sizes: Adjust the keyboard to suit your setup or preferences.
- Ideal for emergencies: Use when your physical keyboard is broken or inaccessible.
- Great for accessibility: Helps users with mobility differences interact with the system.
Onboard and Florence provide Linux users with a reliable, on-screen typing option — useful both as a workaround and as an accessibility aid.
11 Security & Threat Detection
11.1 ClamAV
ClamAV is a free, open-source antivirus engine for detecting malware, viruses, trojans, and other threats on your Linux system. It’s designed mainly for scanning files and email attachments, especially on servers or systems that handle file sharing across networks.
Even though Linux is less targeted by malware, ClamAV adds an extra layer of protection — especially valuable if you share files with others on different platforms.
- Scan on demand: Check files or folders manually whenever you need.
- Email security: Often used to scan mail servers for malicious attachments.
- Lightweight and configurable: Runs efficiently and can be tailored to your needs.
- Updated signatures: Regular updates help catch new threats.
ClamAV gives Linux users a trusted, extra layer of security — useful for scanning files and keeping shared environments clean.
12 Running Other Operating Systems
12.1 VirtualBox
VirtualBox is a free, open-source virtualization platform that lets you run other operating systems (like Windows, another Linux distro, BSD, or experimental OSes) inside your Linux desktop as virtual machines — no rebooting needed.
If you want to test software, try out a different OS, or safely experiment without affecting your main system, VirtualBox makes it easy.
- Run multiple OSes: Use Windows, other Linux distributions, or test environments side-by-side with Linux.
- Snapshot support: Save the exact state of a virtual machine and restore it anytime.
- Shared folders & clipboard: Seamlessly share files and text between guest and host.
- No risk to your main system: Experiment freely knowing your main setup is safe.
VirtualBox lets Linux users explore, test, and work across different OSes — a flexible tool for learning, development, and daily experimentation.
Linux Everyday Apps – FAQ
❓ Do all Linux distros come with these apps pre-installed?
No, most Linux distributions include a small selection (e.g., Firefox, LibreOffice). The rest can be easily installed through your package manager or software center.
❓ Can these apps work on low-end or older hardware?
Yes! Tools like htop, Synapse, and Ranger are lightweight. Apps like Kdenlive or VirtualBox need more resources, but can be tuned for better performance.
❓ Are all of these apps truly free?
Absolutely. Every app listed is free and open-source, with no hidden costs or ads. Many are community-supported and updated regularly.
❓ How do these apps handle privacy?
These tools respect your privacy. Apps like Firefox, Brave, and Synapse don’t collect unnecessary data. Tools like Deja Dup can encrypt your backups for extra security.
❓ Do I need both Timeshift and Deja Dup for backups?
Not necessarily. Timeshift is for system snapshots (OS recovery), while Deja Dup is for personal file backups. Use both if you want full coverage, or choose based on your priority.
❓ Can these apps be installed together without issues?
Yes! They serve different purposes and are designed to coexist. Just monitor disk space if you install many apps.
❓ Is there a risk in using tools like VirtualBox or ClamAV?
No direct risk. VirtualBox can use significant resources; ClamAV may produce occasional false positives. Review results before deleting files.
❓ Do these apps have alternatives I should consider?
Yes! Linux offers options: LibreOffice → Calligra, VLC → MPV, qBittorrent → Deluge, VirtualBox → GNOME Boxes or KVM.