Linux Mint’s speed, stability, and ease-of-use are well known, but you can unlock its full potential by fine-tuning your system after installation. If you’re a new user to Linux, or an experienced one, performing essential tasks, such as updating packages, installing codecs for media, enabling backups, and customizing the desktop. It will ensure that your Mint installation is secure, smooth, and customized to your specific needs.
This guide will explore the most important things you can do to improve your system’s performance, safety, and enjoyment after installing Linux Mint.
12 Things to Do After Installing Linux Mint 22
Installing Linux Mint can be exciting. The system is like a new canvas. Before you dive into using your system daily, you can perform a few useful tasks to make it more useful, secure, and personalized.
1. Update & upgrade your system
Linux Mint 22 is now ready for use. However, to achieve the best performance, security, and user experience, it’s important to take a few steps after installation.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade |
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The ISO you use during installation could be outdated. Updates ensure you have the most recent security fixes, software releases, and bug fixes. Running apt-upgrade brings all installed packages up to the latest compatible versions.
Also consider:
sudo apt dist-upgrade |
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To handle package dependency and removals (if you are okay with this level of change).
2. Install multimedia codecs and optional extras
Linux Mint offers a codec installer by default. If you missed it during the installation process, run:
sudo apt install mint-meta-codecs |
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Codecs are not included by default in many media formats, such as MP3, proprietary formats, and H. 264 video, due to licensing issues. However, you can play audio/video files right out of the box by installing them.
3. Add and enable Snap
Snap is not enabled by default in Linux Mint, even though it includes Flatpak.
sudo rm /etc/apt/preferences.d/nosnap.pref sudo apt install snapd |
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Flatpak and Snap allow you to install the latest versions of apps not included in Ubuntu/Mint’s default repositories. Snap isn’t officially supported by Mint; they prefer Flatpak. You can use either or both.
4. Install your favorite software
There are probably some applications that you use all the time. Installing some of the most common applications is easy.
Use the Software Manager (graphical interface) or apt/flatpak commands.
A new install only has minimal software. Installing your daily tools early will streamline your workflow.
5. Enable a firewall (UFW) and basic security
Linux Mint comes with a relatively secure default configuration, but adding a firewall will add an extra layer of security, especially if you are connected to multiple networks, such as home, cafes, etc..
sudo apt install ufw sudo ufw enable sudo ufw default deny incoming sudo ufw default allow outgoing |
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You may need to open specific ports (e.g., SSH):
sudo ufw allow ssh |
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6. Set up Timeshift for system snapshots
Linux Mint comes with Timeshift, which allows you to restore your system if it breaks.
Click on Timeshift in the menu.
Create a snapshot calendar (e.g). Select the storage location.
Create a snapshot schedule. Create a first snapshot as soon as possible.
If something breaks or a package update behaves badly, you can roll it back to the previous working state.
This is a lifesaver if you are a less technical user or your system is critical.
7. Install and enable updates
Open “Update Manager”, and make sure PPAs and repositories have been enabled.
Add PPAs that you find useful (e.g., graphics drivers, multimedia software, or other software not included in the default repositories). Add only PPAs that you trust.
You need the latest drivers and software, especially for hardware such as Wi-Fi or GPUs.
8. Tweak your desktop & appearance
Here are some ideas for customization:
- Select your favorite desktop theme (under Settings – Themes), icon set, and window decoration.
- Configure the panel layout and applets.
- You can change the keyboard shortcuts and workspaces, as well as mouse behavior.
- Set the screen color temperature and night light (eye comfort)
- Mint can be made to feel more comfortable for you to work with you. These changes improve ergonomics and usability.
9. Enable automatic login / lock screen settings
You can enable automatic login for your user in System Settings – Windows (if security isn’t a major concern). Configure screen lock timeouts, blanking, and suspending behavior.
If you are the only person using a computer, an auto-login can be convenient. On systems with multiple users or shared resources, it is better to require passwords at login and resume.
10. Backup your home directory and important files
Create a backup system:
- Use Backups for your home directory.
- Mirror/sync your data to an external drive, network share, or cloud.
- Backup your critical data, including documents, configurations, and other important files.
Your data is more important than the system. Regular backups protect against disk failure, user errors, or accidental deletions.
11. Check hardware drivers & firmware updates
Check the Driver Manager in Mint’s menu to see if there are any proprietary drivers available (for GPU and Wi-Fi). Check for firmware updates using fwupd.
sudo apt install fwupd sudo fwupdmgr refresh sudo fwupdmgr update |
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Correct drivers will improve performance (especially graphics) and compatibility with hardware (WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.). Firmware updates can fix security flaws.
12. Install extra kernel/utilities (Optional)
If your hardware requires it, you may want to use tools such as htop or neofetch.
sudo apt install htop neofetch bleachbit |
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Mint’s update manager also suggests the latest kernels – but only if they are needed (hardware compatibility or performance).
These utilities monitor and maintain your computer. Newer kernels may offer bug fixes or better hardware support, but they can also cause instability.
Conclusion
It’s essential to take a few steps after installing Linux Mint 22 to optimize the performance, security, and usability of your system. Install multimedia codecs to support full media playback. Update your system first for the latest security patches and packages. Install Timeshift to back up your system, activate the firewall for extra protection, and look for drivers available to ensure that your hardware is running smoothly. Install your favorite software, customize the desktop, enable Flatpak, or Snap to access more software. These steps can help you create a more personalized, faster, and stable Linux Mint 22.
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