Linux on Dell Computers: What You Need to Know

Summary: The following article provides information about the availability of Linux Operating Systems on Dell computer's and how Dell supports them.

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.
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Instructions

At Dell, we know many of our customers love using Linux, whether you're a developer, a power user, or just exploring open-source options. We want to make sure you have the right information about how Linux works with our systems.

Linux Isn’t Just for N-Series Computers

You might have heard that Linux is only available on our N-Series systems. That’s not quite true, we offer Linux across a variety of products.

N-Series: No OS Pre-installed

Our N-Series desktops, laptops, and workstations come without an operating system. These systems ship with a FreeDOS disc, giving you the freedom to install Linux (or any OS you prefer) yourself.

Workstations with Linux Pre-installed

We offer select workstation models with:

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux Workstation
  • Ubuntu

These are great options if you want a powerful system with Linux ready to go.

Desktops and Laptops with Ubuntu

Looking for a laptop or desktop with Linux out of the box? Some of our models come with Ubuntu pre-installed, a reliable and user-friendly Linux distribution.

Support for Linux Systems

When you choose a Dell system with Linux pre-installed, it comes backed by a limited hardware warranty, just like our Windows systems. That means our support team is here to help if you run into any issues with your device.

Note: You can install Linux on any Dell computer. However, if you replace the original operating system and run into issues, we may ask you to reinstall the original operating system (like Windows) before we can begin troubleshooting.

Helpful Resources for Linux Users

We want you to have everything you need to succeed with Linux on your Dell system. Here are some resources to get you started:

Ubuntu Hardware Compatibility List

Wondering which Dell laptops work best with Ubuntu? Check out the official list:

Dell Support Site

Our support site includes:

  • Linux self-help guides
  • Technical articles
  • Setup instructions for your Dell Linux computer

Visit the Dell Linux/Ubuntu Support

Join the Dell Community

Have questions or want to connect with other Linux users? Our community forum is a great place to share tips, ask questions, and learn from others on the Dell Community Forum.

Affected Products

Dell All-in-One, Dell Pro All-in-One, Dell Pro Max Micro, Dell Pro Max Slim, Dell Pro Max Tower, Dell Pro Micro, Dell Pro Slim, Dell Pro Tower, Dell Slim, Dell Tower, OptiPlex, XPS, Dell Laptops, Dell Plus, Dell Pro, Dell Pro Max, Dell Pro Plus , Dell Pro Premium, Latitude, Dell Pro Rugged, XPS, Fixed Workstations, Mobile Workstations, Dell Pro Max Micro XE FCM2250, Dell Pro Max Slim XE FCS1250, Dell Pro Max Tower T2 XE FCT2250, Dell Pro Max 14 Premium MA14250, Dell Pro Max 16 Premium MA16250, Dell Pro Max 16 Plus MB16250, Dell Pro Max 18 Plus MB18250, Dell Pro Max 16 XE MC16250, Dell Pro Micro Plus XE QBM1250, Dell Pro Slim Plus XE5 QBS1250 ...
Article Properties
Article Number: 000138246
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 27 Oct 2025
Version:  12
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