MX Linux Guide

Overview

MX Linux was first released in 2014, combining the best elements of antiX and MEPIS distributions. It consistently ranks as one of the most popular distributions on DistroWatch.

Quick Facts

Based On	Debian Stable / antiX
Package Manager	APT
Default Desktop	Xfce
Release Cycle	Point releases on Debian Stable
Support Period	Follows Debian Stable
Init System	SysV init (systemd available)

Info

MX Linux uses SysV init by default but can boot with systemd if preferred. This gives you flexibility while maintaining compatibility with both approaches.

Who Should Use MX Linux?

Older hardware users - Lightweight and efficient
Debian fans - Debian Stable base with enhancements
Anti-systemd users - SysV init by default
Customization fans - Excellent MX Tools
USB users - Outstanding live USB experience

Installation

MX Linux uses a custom installer that's straightforward:

Download from mxlinux.org
Create bootable USB (or use MX Live USB Maker)
Boot into live environment
Click the Install icon on the desktop
Follow the installation wizard

bash

# Verify your download
sha256sum MX-23.3_x64.iso

# MX includes live USB creation tool
# No need for external tools like Etcher

Package Management

MX Linux uses APT with additional MX repositories:

bash

# Update package list
sudo apt update

# Upgrade packages
sudo apt upgrade

# Install a package
sudo apt install package-name

# MX Package Installer (GUI)
mx-packageinstaller

# Enable Debian Backports (newer packages)
# Available through MX Package Installer settings

# Flatpak support
sudo apt install flatpak
flatpak install flathub app-name

Tip

MX Package Installer is a powerful GUI tool that combines APT, Flatpak, and community repositories in one interface.

Key Features

Lightweight Performance

MX Linux runs well on older hardware. The Xfce desktop is snappy and responsive even on limited resources.

Live USB Persistence

Create persistent live USBs that save your changes. Carry your OS and files on a USB drive.

SysV Init

Uses traditional SysV init instead of systemd by default, appealing to users who prefer the classic init system.

Snapshot Tool

Create bootable snapshots of your running system. Perfect for backups or creating custom ISOs.

MX Tools

Featured MX Tools

MX Snapshot	Create bootable ISO from running system
MX Live USB Maker	Create live and persistent USBs
MX Package Installer	Unified package management GUI
MX Tweak	System appearance and behavior settings
MX Boot Options	Configure boot parameters
MX Conky	Configure desktop system monitor
MX Codecs	Install multimedia codecs easily

FAQ

Why doesn't MX Linux use systemd?

MX Linux uses SysV init by default for simplicity and performance on older hardware. systemd is available if you prefer it - just select it at boot.

Is MX Linux good for beginners?

Yes! MX Tools make system administration easy, and the Xfce desktop is intuitive. The community is welcoming to newcomers.

Can I make my own custom ISO?

Yes! MX Snapshot creates a bootable ISO from your installed system. Install your apps, configure settings, then snapshot it for deployment or sharing.

Summary

MX Linux combines Debian stability with excellent tools and lightweight performance. Key takeaways:

Debian Stable base with MX enhancements
Lightweight Xfce desktop
Excellent MX Tools for system management
SysV init with optional systemd
Great for older hardware and USB usage