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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” is a free, long-term-support desktop Linux release supported with security updates through April 2029. Announced on September 4, 2025, it is available in Cinnamon, MATE and Xfce editions, uses Linux kernel 6.14 and is based on Ubuntu Noble packages.
What is Linux Mint 22.2 Zara?
Zara is a point release in the Linux Mint 22 series rather than a separate distribution. Mint’s supported-release table lists 22.2 as supported through April 2029. That date is the published support deadline; it does not mean Zara is the newest Mint release available in every region or installation scenario.
The release announcement describes Zara as an LTS release. Clem, writing for the Linux Mint team, said: “The team is proud to announce the release of Linux Mint 22.2 ‘Zara.’”
What’s new in Linux Mint 22.2?
Fingwit fingerprint authentication
Fingwit is new fingerprint-authentication software for Mint. It detects whether the computer has a fingerprint reader and lets you enroll fingerprints for the screensaver, sudo authentication and administrative applications.
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- 1. 9-in-1 Linux:32GB Bootable Linux USB Flash Drive for Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, Linux Mint cinnamon 22, MX Linux xfce 23, Elementary OS 8.0, Linux Lite xfce 7.0, Manjaro kde 24(Replaced by Fedora Workstation 43), Peppermint Debian 32bit (being replaced by MX Linux 32bit) for older PC, Pop OS 22, Zorin OS core xfce 17. The versions you received might be latest than above as we update them to latest/LTS when we think necessary.
- 2. Try or install:Before installing on your PC, you can try them one by one without touching your hard disks.
- 3. Easy to use: These distros are easy to use and built with beginners in mind. Most of them Come with a wide range of pre-bundled software that includes office productivity suite, Web browser, instant messaging, image editing, multimedia, and email. Ensure transition to Linux World without regrets for Windows users.
- 4. Support: Printed user guide on how to boot up and try or install Linux; please contact us for help if you have an issue. Please press "Enter" a couple of times if you see a black screen after selecting a Linux.
- 5. Compatibility: Except for MACs,Chromebooks and ARM-based devices, works with any brand's laptop and desktop PC, legacy BIOS or UEFI booting, Requires enabling USB boot in BIOS/UEFI configuration and disabling Secure Boot is necessary for UEFI boot mode. Packing: The bootable USB drive comes in a colored PET/CPP zipper bag with instructions on how to get started. The box pictured is not included.
Fingerprint authentication does not necessarily eliminate passwords everywhere. Systems using home-directory encryption or a keyring may still require the account password at the login screen.
Sticky Notes and Android synchronization
Sticky Notes gains rounded visual styling and compatibility with Wayland. Mint also provides the StyncyNotes Android companion for synchronizing notes between a Mint computer and an Android device.
Hypnotix viewing modes
The Hypnotix application adds Theater and Borderless modes. These are display options within Hypnotix and are not an endorsement of any particular streaming provider.
Theme and update improvements
Mint’s applications integrate libAdwaita themes and accent colors more consistently. Update Manager also presents a reboot button when an installed update requires a restart.
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- ✅Including Windows 11 64Bit & Linux Mint 22.3 (Cinnamon)、Kali 2026.02、Ubuntu 26.04、Zorin Pro 18、Tails 7.8.1、Debian 13.5.0、Garuda 2026.03、Fedora Workstation 44、Manjaro 25.06、Pop!_OS 22.04、Solus 2026.04、Archcraft 26.05、Neon 2026.06、Fossapup 9.5、Sparkylinux 8.3, All ISO has been Tested
- ✅Supported UEFI and Legacy, Compatibility any PC/Laptop, Any boot issue only needs to disable "Secure Boot"
Which Zara edition should you install?
Linux Mint 22.2 is offered in three desktop editions. The official release information establishes their availability but does not provide performance benchmarks that rank one above another.
| Edition | What it changes | Best way to choose |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon | Mint’s Cinnamon desktop interface and workflow. | Choose it if you want the standard Cinnamon experience. |
| MATE | Mint’s MATE desktop interface and workflow. | Choose it if MATE’s traditional desktop layout suits you. |
| Xfce | Mint’s Xfce desktop interface and workflow. | Choose it if you prefer Xfce’s interface and tools. |
Because no comparative benchmark is established for this release, select an edition by desktop preference and by checking the current release notes for hardware-specific issues rather than assuming one edition is universally faster.
Kernel 6.14: hardware and virtualization caveats
Zara ships with Linux kernel 6.14 on an Ubuntu Noble package base. The newer hardware-enablement kernel can affect existing setups.
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- Dual USB-A & USB-C Bootable Drive – works with almost any desktop or laptop computer (new and old). Boot directly from the USB or install Linux Mint Cinnamon to a hard drive for permanent use.
- Fully Customizable USB – easily Add, Replace, or Upgrade any compatible bootable ISO app, installer, or utility (clear step-by-step instructions included).
- Familiar yet better than Windows or macOS – enjoy a fast, secure, and privacy-friendly system with no forced updates, no online account requirement, and smooth, stable performance. Ready for Work & Play – includes office suite, web browser, email, image editing, and media apps for music and video. Supports Steam, Epic, and GOG gaming via Lutris or Heroic Launcher.
- Great for Reviving Older PCs – Mint’s lightweight Cinnamon desktop gives aging computers a smooth, modern experience. No Internet Required – run Live or install offline.
- Premium Hardware & Reliable Support – built with high-quality flash chips for speed and longevity. TECH STORE ON provides responsive customer support within 24 hours.
- Mint’s 22-series release notes warn that the 22.2 HWE kernel may cause problems with VirtualBox.
- They also identify possible issues for older NVIDIA cards using the proprietary 470 driver.
- For users affected by those cases, Mint recommends staying on Linux Mint 22.1 with kernel 6.8.
Check the current Mint release notes before upgrading a machine that depends on VirtualBox or an older NVIDIA 470 installation. Do not treat the kernel version alone as a guarantee of compatibility with every device.
Linux Mint 22.2 system requirements
Mint publishes the following requirements and recommendations:
| Item | Published figure | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | 2 GB RAM minimum | Mint recommends 4 GB for comfortable use. |
| Storage | 20 GB disk space minimum | Mint recommends 100 GB. |
| Display | 1024×768 minimum resolution | The requirement is for the display resolution, not a performance test. |
These are published installation requirements, not a compatibility guarantee for every graphics adapter, peripheral or application.
Rank #4
- 1. 3IN1: Multiboot USB flash drive includes Linux Mint Cinnamon 22 & 21.3 64bit and Linux Mint Cinnamon 19 32bit.It's suitable to both older PC and new computers.You can always try on USB before install. The versions you received might be latest than above as we update them when we think necessary.
- 2. What is Linux Mint: Linux Mint is designed to work 'out of the box' and comes fully equipped with the apps most people need, such as graphic design, office software, web browser, multimedia and gaming.
- 3. Why choose Linux Mint: works out of the box, easy to use, requires little maintenance, safe, fast and comfortable.
- 4. Compatibility: This Multiboot USB is compatible with any brands' PC such as HP,Dell,Lenovo,Samsung,Toshiba,Sony,Acer,Asus except for Apple computers, Chromebooks and ARM-based devices, and works with both legacy BIOS and UEFI booting modes. When using UEFI boot mode, secure boot needs to be disabled in BIOS settings.
- 5. User Guide & Support: Print user guide and support available. please contact us for help if you have an issue.
How to upgrade from Linux Mint 22.1 to 22.2
Mint documents point-release upgrades within the 22 series, including upgrades involving 22, 22.1 and 22.2. Documentation and available paths can change, so use the current official Linux Mint upgrade instructions for the exact procedure shown for your installation.
- Back up important files. An operating-system upgrade changes system packages and can affect a working configuration.
- Read the current release notes. Pay particular attention to the VirtualBox and NVIDIA 470-driver caveats if they apply to your computer.
- Use Mint’s documented upgrade path. Do not substitute an unlisted cross-version route; Mint states that there are no other upgrade paths beyond those it documents.
- Allow the upgrade to finish and restart when requested. Point upgrades are generally described by Mint as taking a few minutes, while major upgrades can take up to a few hours and may require more user knowledge.
If your hardware depends on the affected VirtualBox or older NVIDIA configuration, the documented 22.1/kernel 6.8 option may be safer than moving immediately to Zara.
Installing Zara safely
Download the ISO from an official Linux Mint edition page and follow its installation guide. Mint warns that fake ISO images exist and provides checksum and signature files for verification.
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- LINUX MINT 22.3 MEDIA - 16GB bootable USB with Linux Mint Cinnamon 22.3 for compatible x86-64 PCs.
- LIVE OR INSTALL - On supported hardware, start the Linux Mint live environment to evaluate it or launch the installer.
- PLATFORM BOUNDARY - Not designed to boot Apple Silicon or other ARM-based computers. Confirm CPU architecture and USB-boot support before purchase.
- BOOT SETTINGS VARY - Boot-menu keys and UEFI settings differ by manufacturer; consult the computer maker's instructions if the USB is not listed.
- BACK UP BEFORE INSTALLING - Disk-partition and installation choices can erase files or operating systems. Disconnect nonessential drives and preserve the USB until it is no longer needed for installation or recovery.
- Download the ISO and the matching checksum and signature files from the official Mint site.
- Verify the image before writing it to installation media.
- Back up data on the target computer before replacing or modifying an existing system.
- After installation, apply available updates and reboot when Update Manager indicates that a restart is required.
Should you upgrade to Linux Mint 22.2?
Zara is a sensible choice when you want Mint’s 22-series desktop with support specified through April 2029 and you are comfortable with its kernel 6.14 hardware stack. Fingerprint-reader owners gain Fingwit, and the release adds several desktop and Mint-application refinements.
Pause and review the release notes first if your system relies on VirtualBox or an older NVIDIA card using driver 470. In those cases, Mint’s stated 22.1 with kernel 6.8 recommendation may better match your hardware.
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