What Is New in Ubuntu 6.06
| Category | Key Updates |
|---|---|
| New Features | Live CD installer (Ubiquity), Graphical startup (Usplash), Network Manager |
| Improvements | Faster package management (Adept), Human theme refinements, Better laptop support |
| Software Updates | GNOME 2.14, Firefox 1.5.0.3, OpenOffice.org 2.0.2, GCC 4.0.3 |
| Security | AppArmor application security framework |
| Under the Hood | Kernel 2.6.15, X.Org 7.0 |
How did the installer get better?
Ubuntu 6.06 introduced the Ubiquity installer, a game-changer for desktop deployments. This Live CD installer let users boot into a fully functional desktop and install the system without ever leaving the graphical environment. In practice, this meant you could test hardware compatibility and driver support before committing to an install, which dramatically reduced post-installation surprises.
What's new for developers?
The toolchain received significant updates, including GCC 4.0.3 and improved Python packages. This matters because it provided better standards compliance and performance for compiled code. The inclusion of the latest GNOME 2.14 platform also gave app developers a more modern and stable foundation to build upon.
How was security enhanced?
AppArmor was integrated as the default application security framework. This proactive approach confines individual programs to a set of resources, limiting the damage from potential vulnerabilities. For server deployments, this was a solid step beyond traditional user-based permissions.
What improved for desktop users?
The user experience was polished with the refined Human theme and a graphical boot process using Usplash. Network Manager made managing wired and wireless connections trivial for the first time. The Adept package manager also got a speed boost, making software installation and updates much smoother.
Key Desktop Applications
- Firefox 1.5.0.3 web browser
- OpenOffice.org 2.0.2 office suite
- Evolution 2.6.0 email and calendar
- GIMP 2.2.10 image editor
What about underlying system changes?
The foundation was upgraded to the Linux 2.6.15 kernel and X.Org 7.0, bringing better hardware support and display capabilities. These low-level improvements meant broader compatibility with newer chipsets, graphics cards, and peripherals right out of the box.
FAQ
Is Ubuntu 6.06 an LTS (Long-Term Support) release?
Yes, this was the first Ubuntu release to carry the LTS designation. It received security updates and maintenance for three years on the desktop and five years on the server edition.
Can I upgrade directly from Hoary (5.04) or Warty (4.10) to Dapper (6.06)?
No, the recommended path was to upgrade sequentially. You needed to upgrade to Breezy (5.10) first before moving to Dapper to avoid potential package dependency issues.
How does AppArmor differ from other security frameworks like SELinux?
AppArmor uses path-based confinement profiles which are generally considered easier to configure and manage than SELinux's label-based policy, making it more approachable for administrators.
What made the Ubiquity installer better than previous Debian installers?
Ubiquity ran entirely from the Live CD environment with a streamlined, user-friendly interface. It handled partitioning automatically for most users and could install the system in about 20-30 minutes on typical hardware.
Were there any notable regressions or issues in this release?
Some users reported issues with proprietary graphics drivers and certain wireless cards initially. The community quickly addressed many of these through updated packages and documentation in the forums.