IGEL OS

IGEL OS at a glance

IGEL OS is a write-protected Linux operating system built specifically for thin clients and repurposed PC hardware. System administrators use it to provision endpoints for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), desktop-as-a-service, and cloud workspace environments, benefiting from a reduced attack surface, secure boot, full-disk encryption, and TPM support. Endpoints are typically managed centrally through the associated management suite, which allows configurations, policies, and updates to be rolled out fleet-wide.

The current product generation separates the base operating system from its applications (such as Citrix Workspace, Zoom, or VMware Horizon Client), allowing app updates to be delivered independently of base system updates via an app portal mechanism. The base system itself receives rolling updates several times a year, along with separate long-term support versions aligned with the lifecycle of its underlying Debian base.

When updating, administrators should distinguish between major versions, which carry their own support lifecycle and end-of-life date, and the more frequent minor or rolling updates. Particular attention should be paid to secure boot certificate changes and compatibility with hardware vendor BIOS/UEFI updates, since outdated OS versions can fail to boot after certain firmware revocation deadlines. Updating before applying external firmware changes is generally advised.