SparkyLinux 2025.12, codenamed "Tiamat," has been released as part of its semi-rolling distribution line, featuring new ISO images that are now available for download. This release is significant as it incorporates updates from both Debian testing (nicknamed "Forky") and Sparky's own testing repositories as of December 14, 2025. The Linux kernel has been upgraded to version 6.17.11, with additional variants available, including 6.18.1, 6.12.62-LTS, and 6.6.119-LTS.
In this update, users will find the Firefox browser has been updated to version 140.5.0esr, with version 146.0 also available for those interested in beta or development features. Similarly, Thunderbird has received the ESR update to version 140.5.0. Additionally, Grub has been upgraded to a new build from July 2025.
For users installing on UEFI systems, an internet connection is recommended due to enhancements in the Calamares installer. In contrast, those with older BIOS systems can still utilize the command line installation option: `sudo sparky-installer`. This release also introduces two new package mirror servers located in the UK ("UK1") and central USA ("US1").
New users should note that the default password for the live session is now "live," and root access remains disabled by default. The installation process offers six different desktop environments to choose from: LXQt, KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI (which uses Openbox), and MinimalCLI for those preferring a text-based interface.
For existing users already running a Sparky rolling setup, updating to this latest version should be straightforward without the need for a complete reinstallation. To download the SparkyLinux 2025.12 rolling ISO images, users can visit the designated download page for the rolling edition.
In summary, SparkyLinux 2025.12 "Tiamat" provides significant updates, improved installation options, and greater flexibility for users. As the Linux ecosystem continues to evolve, this release positions SparkyLinux as a versatile choice for users seeking a modern and user-friendly operating system experience. Future updates may focus on enhancing user experience, expanding hardware support, and integrating more cutting-edge applications, keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of Linux distributions
In this update, users will find the Firefox browser has been updated to version 140.5.0esr, with version 146.0 also available for those interested in beta or development features. Similarly, Thunderbird has received the ESR update to version 140.5.0. Additionally, Grub has been upgraded to a new build from July 2025.
For users installing on UEFI systems, an internet connection is recommended due to enhancements in the Calamares installer. In contrast, those with older BIOS systems can still utilize the command line installation option: `sudo sparky-installer`. This release also introduces two new package mirror servers located in the UK ("UK1") and central USA ("US1").
New users should note that the default password for the live session is now "live," and root access remains disabled by default. The installation process offers six different desktop environments to choose from: LXQt, KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI (which uses Openbox), and MinimalCLI for those preferring a text-based interface.
For existing users already running a Sparky rolling setup, updating to this latest version should be straightforward without the need for a complete reinstallation. To download the SparkyLinux 2025.12 rolling ISO images, users can visit the designated download page for the rolling edition.
In summary, SparkyLinux 2025.12 "Tiamat" provides significant updates, improved installation options, and greater flexibility for users. As the Linux ecosystem continues to evolve, this release positions SparkyLinux as a versatile choice for users seeking a modern and user-friendly operating system experience. Future updates may focus on enhancing user experience, expanding hardware support, and integrating more cutting-edge applications, keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of Linux distributions
SparkyLinux 2025.12 released
The latest version of SparkyLinux, "Tiamat," has been released in the semi-rolling line with updated ISO images available for download. This release includes kernel updates up to version 6.17.11 and other variants, as well as updated versions of Firefox (Extended Support Release) and Thunderbird. Users installing on UEFI systems may need an internet connection due to improvements made to the Calamares installer, while those with BIOS and 64-bit support can still use the CLI option. The new release also features two additional package mirror servers and multiple installation options, including six different desktop environments.
