MATE is a stable, easy-to-use operating system with a configurable desktop environment. It is ideal for those who
want the most out of their computers and prefer a traditional desktop metaphor. With modest hardware
requirements, it is suitable for modern workstations, single board computers and
older hardware alike. MATE makes modern computers fast and old computers usable.
Why MATE?
MATE is a desktop distribution (variation) of GNU/Linux -- a dependable, secure, capable, and modern computer system that rivals all others in popularity and usage. Unlike other operating systems, Linux is used:
on most of the world's fastest and most powerful supercomputers
on many of, if not most of, the computers that make up the backbone of the Internet
and on corporate servers that require stability and reliability
The MATE operating system is more secure, and better supported than the operating system pre-installed on most home computer hardware today.
Using MATE provides you with the freedom to run a complete, full-featured operating system, pre-configured with most (if not all) of the applications you will need for your daily computing. Change anything about the way it looks, the way it works, or the applications it runs to suit your taste.
Objectives
MATE has a number of guiding objectives and goals.
Accessible to all, regardless of language and physical ability.
Increase both Ubuntu and MATE Desktop user adoption
Ubuntu alternative for computers that aren't powerful enough to run a composited desktop.
First choice Ubuntu platform for remote workstation solutions such as LTSP and X2Go.
Recreate the halcyon days of Ubuntu for users who prefer a traditional desktop metaphor.
Use themes and artwork similar to Ubuntu so that MATE is immediately familiar.
When possible contribute to Debian so both the Debian and Ubuntu communities benefit.
Software selection will favor functionality and stability over lightness and whimsy.
Hardware Requirements
MATE is designed to run
on almost any computer hardware. Of course, MATE runs particularly well on the newest, fastest hardware, but it also runs well on
almost any vintage of machine. In fact, an older computer designed during the Windows Vista era can
easily be outfitted with the new, modern and fully-supported MATE and it will likely run better than it did with the
previously installed operating system. Of course, MATE will run much more efficiently if your computer meets or
surpasses the recommended requirements. These are the recommendations for Desktop and Laptop computers.
|
Core 2 Duo |
Core i3 |
|
1 gigabyte (GB) of RAM |
4 gigabytes (GB) RAM |
|
8 gigabytes (GB) of available space on the hard disk |
16 gigabytes (GB) of available space on the hard disk |
|
Bootable DVD-ROM drive |
Bootable DVD-ROM or USB flash drive |
|
1024 x 768 or higher resolution |
1440 x 900 or higher (with graphics acceleration) |
|
Sound card |
Sound card |
|
Speakers or headphones |
Speakers or headphones |
Tip
Scrolling through the guide and jumping from topic to topic is fine if you want to read the MATE Guide like a manual. If you are looking for help on a particular topic, clicking the blue magnifying glass icon in the upper right corner of the help window opens a search tool. Type what you want to search for into the search box and press Enter to see a list of topics related to your search.
