The MX Linux community has released the new version MX Linux 25.1 InfinityThis is a significant update to this well-known Debian-based distribution, which has consistently ranked among the most downloaded according to DistroWatch for years. While not a completely new version, it does establish a checkpoint designed to ensure that fresh installations are ready and up-to-date from the first boot, something many users in Europe and Spain will appreciate to avoid lengthy download processes.
On a practical level, this 25.1 edition includes All bug fixes, stability improvements, and security patches Released since the launch of MX Linux 25, this update includes key components and refreshes the official ISO images. With this, the distro maintains its usual focus: offering a stable, fast, and relatively lightweight system, suitable for both modest computers and modern machines with recent hardware.
What is MX Linux and what does this 25.1 update focus on?
MX Linux is a distribution based on Debian and focused on stability and performanceIt is well known for its ease of use and for offering a clean experience, without excessive pre-installed software. In recent years, it has established itself as a very solid alternative for those looking for something similar to the old Ubuntu, but with less software and a more traditional approach.
With branch 25, distribution took the leap to Debian 13 as a baseThis brought updates to the system kernel, desktops, and many of the project's tools. Now, MX Linux 25.1 Infinity acts as a cumulative review of that branch, maintaining the same course but refining the experience and incorporating all the improvements released since then.
MX Linux 25.1 Infinity: a point update, not a new version
Although it may seem so due to the change in numbering, MX Linux 25.1 is not MX Linux 26 Nor does it introduce a break with the previous version. It is designed as a maintenance update similar to those released by other distributions with long-term support, such as Debian or the LTS editions of Ubuntu, where patches and updates are accumulated in new installation images.
The main objective of this release is that, when installing from scratch, the user will have a system fully updated as soon as the installation is completeThis avoids long sessions of downloading and installing packages right after launching the distro, which is especially useful in environments with slow connections or when making massive deployments on office computers, classrooms or laboratories.
Debian 13.3 "Trixie" base and updated LTS kernels
This new version relies on Debian 13.3 «Trixie»This is the latest stable revision available of the branch on which MX Linux 25 is based. This means having a more polished package ecosystem, with recent security fixes and improvements to numerous applications and libraries used daily by both home and professional users.
In the kernel section, the standard ISOs of MX Linux 25.1 include the Linux kernel 6.12 LTS, an extended support version focused on providing long-term stability. For those who need improved compatibility with newer hardware, the distribution maintains its AHS (Advanced Hardware Support) images, which in this case incorporate the Linux kernel 6.18 LTSdesigned to get the most out of modern equipment.
Compatibility and performance improvements on current hardware
The new ISOs published with this revision integrate all security patches and fixes applied since MX Linux 25 was released. Among other changes, these include fixes for errors detected after the initial release and updated versions of packages considered essential to the system.
The AHS edition has been specially strengthened in the area of recent hardware, offering Improved support for Wi-Fi 6E cards and AMD and NVIDIA graphics cardsAccording to the project managers, the use of kernel 6.15 (in the AHS branch of this series) allows for improved graphics performance, with increases of up to 15% in the frame rate in games, something that can make a difference in computers intended for leisure or content creation.
The big new feature: dual-init support
One of the most striking changes in MX Linux 25.1 is the introduction of dual boot system supportThis means that both systemd and SysVinit are now included in the same installation images. From now on, users can choose which boot system to start with directly from the live session menu.
In the initial version 25, the situation was different: separate ISOs existed For those who preferred systemd and for those who continued to rely on SysVinit, the choice was fixed from the installation stage. With MX Linux 25.1 Infinity, the new images allow you to select your desired init system at each boot in live mode, providing greater flexibility both for testing the distro and for preparing installations tailored to different preferences or needs.
Limitations for those who have already installed MX Linux 25
This new feature of double init has an important nuance: It only really affects new installations.Users who already had MX Linux 25 Installed with systemd or SysVinit will continue to use the same boot system after upgrading to 25.1 via the usual package channels.
If someone who installed branch 25 with a specific init wants to switch to the other option, Updating packages will not be enough.In that case, a clean installation using the new dual-init ISOs will be necessary, so that the system is configured from scratch with the desired settings. This is an important detail to consider before deciding whether or not to reinstall.
New ISOs and desktop environments available
MX Linux 25.1 is distributed in the usual editions with three main desktop environments: Xfce, KDE Plasma and FluxboxEach one is geared towards a different type of user, while maintaining the distro's overall focus on stability and resource consumption.
- Xfce: It is the most widespread edition within the MX community, with a balanced, relatively lightweight desktop suitable for most users, from those coming from Windows to those who use Linux daily.
- KDE PlasmaIt is aimed at those looking for a more visually appealing and highly customizable work environment, with a multitude of configuration options and a more modern visual integration.
- flux boxIt offers a minimalist and very lightweight experience, ideal for old or under-resourced equipmentas well as for advanced users who value a minimal environment.
The new ISO images, already updated to MX Linux 25.1, can be downloaded from the official project pagewhere the specific content of this review is also detailed. From there, you can select your preferred desktop variant and, if applicable, opt for versions with advanced hardware support.
Upgrade from MX Linux 25 and earlier versions
Those who already have MX Linux 25 installed on their computer you do not need to reinstall the system To benefit from the improvements and patches included in 25.1 Infinity, simply keep your system up to date using the graphical update tools or the command-line package manager to ensure your installation aligns with the new checkpoint.
For users still using older versions, such as MX Linux 24, it's possible to force a full upgrade to the 25.1 branch using the usual combination of terminal commands. For example, you could run “sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade && sudo apt full-upgrade”This will download the latest packages and adjust the system to the new base.
For those who prefer to start from scratch, the new ISOs available in the release note They make the task easier, since after the initial installation there is a environment completely updatedwithout the need to apply a large volume of subsequent patches. This option is often practical in professional or educational environments in Spain and other European countries, where it is desirable to have standard images ready for deployment on multiple computers.
Frequently Asked Questions about MX Linux 25.1 Infinity
Being a point update Since it introduces visible changes to the ISOs, it is normal for some recurring doubts to arise from the community and from those who are approaching the distribution for the first time.
The first common question is whether MX Linux 25.1 Infinity should be considered a completely new version of the system. The answer is no: this is a revision of the images and available packages, incorporating corrections and improvements accumulated since the release of MX Linux 25, without breaking compatibility or changing the base of the distro.
Another frequently asked question is whether it is mandatory to reinstall if you are already using branch 25. On this point, the answer is clear: There is no need to reinstall to upgrade from MX Linux 25 to 25.1Updating via the package system is sufficient to obtain the latest improvements, provided that all available patches are applied.
Regarding which edition is most advisable for older or less powerful computers, MX Linux's approach remains the same: Fluxbox and Xfce are usually the preferred optionsSince they consume fewer resources and allow you to get more out of older computers, KDE Plasma remains the alternative for those who value a more sophisticated desktop environment, assuming slightly higher memory and CPU usage.
Finally, it is worth noting that the distribution includes updated LTS kernelsThis combines stability with support for new hardware. This is especially interesting in the European context, where very diverse IT infrastructures coexist, from offices with older equipment to workplaces that frequently upgrade their machinery.
Update now
With this 25.1 Infinity revision, MX Linux consolidates the Debian 13.3 "Trixie" branch and reinforces its commitment to a stable, adaptable, and manageable system for all types of users. The combination of new ISOs with integrated patches, dual-init support, LTS kernels, and various desktop environments keeps the distribution at a competitive edge. competitive position among the most highly valued options in the GNU/Linux ecosystem, both in Spain and in the rest of Europe.
