Ubuntu Query - New User

[TiberiusDarkforge]

Hi all 

Thank you for having me.

I'm na new user, currently dipping my toes into Jellyfin.
I setup a test system on an old Windows desktop, but now I'm looking for something more long-term.
The mini PC I have is an older HP thin client and I am thinking of adding an NVME drive for the OS and a  1 or 2 TB SATA for the media.

I'm looking at Ubuntu as the OS, but I don't want to have to add a screen and keyboard if it reboots/locks. Also I've seen mention of Ubuntu LTS but I don't know what this is - is it just a different build of Ubuntu?

Sorry if I'm being thick, but sometimes you just need to ask a question rather than middle around in the dark.

Many thanks

[Venson]

Ubuntu LTS means "LongTermSupport" meaning security updates will be provided for longer then non LTS releases.
Jellyfin usually supports operating systems for as long as their manufacture does, although we usually also work on the latest versions, it can happen that after 3-4 years we stop supporting them.

I assume you dont want to use a desktop enviorment if you are setting up the server.
If you install ubuntu without desktop enviorment, you can connect to it via SSH.

[TheDreadPirate]

To add to what Venson said, Ubuntu releases new LTS versions every two years with 24.04 being the latest LTS Ubuntu release. 26.04 will be the next in April 2026. Ubuntu supports these releases for ~5 years with 20.04 being the next LTS release on the chopping block later this year.