Congratulations on installing Linux Mint! Now it's time to optimize your system for the best possible experience. This guide covers the essential things to do after installing Linux Mint to ensure your system is secure, up-to-date, and tailored to your needs.
Whether you're a complete Linux beginner or switching from another distribution, these steps will help you get the most out of your new Linux Mint installation.
Update Your System
Critical5-10 minutesSystem MaintenanceGet the latest security patches and software updates
This ensures your system has the latest security patches and bug fixes. Linux Mint uses a conservative update approach, but it's still important to stay current.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo apt updatesudo apt upgrade -y💡 Pro Tip
You can also use the Update Manager GUI from the menu. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing updates and allows you to choose which updates to install.
Install Multimedia Codecs
High2-5 minutesMediaEnable support for MP3, MP4, and other media formats
This package includes codecs for playing various audio and video formats that aren't included by default due to licensing restrictions.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo apt install ubuntu-restricted-extras -yConfigure Firewall
High2 minutesSecurityEnable and configure the built-in firewall for security
Linux Mint comes with UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) installed but disabled. Enabling it adds an extra layer of security to your system.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo ufw enablesudo ufw statusInstall Flatpak Support
Medium2 minutesSoftware ManagementAdd support for Flatpak applications
Flatpak provides access to a wide range of applications that aren't available in the default repositories, including many modern apps.
💻 Commands to run:
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepoConfigure Timeshift Backups
Critical10 minutesBackup & RecoverySet up automatic system snapshots
Timeshift creates system snapshots that can save you if something goes wrong. It's like System Restore in Windows but more powerful.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo timeshift --create --comments 'Initial backup'⚠️ Important
Timeshift is your safety net. Set it up before making major changes to your system. You can access it from Menu → Administration → Timeshift.
Install Essential Software
Medium10-15 minutesSoftware InstallationAdd commonly needed applications
These are fundamental tools that many users find essential for daily computing and development tasks.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo apt install curl wget git vim neofetch htop -yOptimize SSD Performance
Medium5 minutesPerformanceEnable TRIM for SSD drives (if applicable)
If you're using an SSD, enabling TRIM helps maintain performance and longevity by allowing the drive to efficiently manage deleted data.
💻 Commands to run:
sudo systemctl enable fstrim.timersudo fstrim -avCustomize Desktop Appearance
Low15-30 minutesCustomizationPersonalize themes, icons, and desktop layout
Linux Mint offers extensive customization options. You can change themes, icons, window decorations, and panel layouts to match your preferences.
🎨 Customization Tips
Right-click on the desktop → "Customize" or go to Menu → Preferences → Themes. You can also visit our themes guide for inspiration.
Install Additional Drivers
Medium5-10 minutesHardwareCheck for proprietary graphics and wireless drivers
Use the Driver Manager to install proprietary drivers for NVIDIA graphics cards, wireless adapters, or other hardware that needs specific drivers.
Configure Privacy Settings
Medium5 minutesPrivacy & SecurityReview and adjust privacy and security settings
Linux Mint is privacy-focused by default, but you can review settings like location services, online accounts, and data sharing preferences.
Essential Software to Install
📊productivity
LibreOffice
Complete office suite (usually pre-installed)
Pre-installedThunderbird
Email client
sudo apt install thunderbirdGIMP
Image editing
sudo apt install gimpBlender
3D modeling and animation
flatpak install flathub org.blender.Blender💻development
Visual Studio Code
Code editor
flatpak install flathub com.visualstudio.codeGit
Version control
sudo apt install gitNode.js
JavaScript runtime
sudo apt install nodejs npmPython
Programming language (usually pre-installed)
Pre-installed🎵multimedia
VLC
Media player
sudo apt install vlcAudacity
Audio editing
sudo apt install audacityOBS Studio
Screen recording/streaming
flatpak install flathub com.obsproject.StudioSpotify
Music streaming
flatpak install flathub com.spotify.Client🛠utilities
Bleachbit
System cleaner
sudo apt install bleachbitGparted
Partition editor
sudo apt install gpartedSynaptic
Advanced package manager
sudo apt install synapticNeofetch
System information
sudo apt install neofetchPerformance Optimization Tips
💾 Memory Management
- • Adjust swappiness:
echo 'vm.swappiness=10' | sudo tee -a /etc/sysctl.conf - • Monitor RAM usage with:
htop - • Close unnecessary startup programs
- • Use lighter themes if on old hardware
⚡ System Optimization
- • Enable TRIM for SSDs (covered in step 7)
- • Clean package cache:
sudo apt autoclean - • Remove orphaned packages:
sudo apt autoremove - • Use preload for faster app startup:
sudo apt install preload
Security Checklist
🔒 Essential Security Steps
- ✓Enable firewall (UFW)
- ✓Set up automatic updates
- ✓Configure Timeshift backups
- ✓Use strong passwords
🛡 Advanced Security
- • Install ClamAV antivirus (optional)
- • Configure fail2ban for SSH protection
- • Use encrypted home directory
- • Regular security audits with lynis
🎉 You're All Set!
Your Linux Mint system is now optimized and ready for daily use. Here's what to explore next: