Having problems with Windows 10? If you don't plan on installing Windows 7, which is set to lose support from Microsoft on January 14, 2020, or you don't have the money to spend on an Apple, there aren't many other options when it comes to a computer operating system other than Linux.
Although you can expect a learning curve when switching platforms, Windows users who are curious about the state of Linux for mainstream computing could be surprisingly satisfied after finding a suitable distribution for their device and spending some time getting used to the new environment.
Here are five reasons why you could easily replace Windows with Linux as the default operating system on your desktop or laptop:
A curated list of software, such as mobile platforms
Software known to be compatible with a particular version of Linux is maintained in a central directory or “repository” similar to mobile platforms like iOS or Android.
While you can download individual applications from websites and install them with a package manager that automates the process similar to Windows, finding new programs on Linux is generally as simple as searching for them in the software repository and clicking install. Deleting applications is also done with just one click.
Smoother update process for operating system and software
While Windows updates are often delayed and often require a reboot, Linux updates are quick and rarely require a reboot. Updates are usually downloaded through a “Software Updater” application, which not only checks for operating system patches, but also includes updates for programs you have installed from the repository.
This is easier and inherently more secure than manually searching for and installing the latest version of each app on your device.
Highly customizable, especially the desktop interface
Beyond the vastly different configurations that come with each copy of Linux, their interfaces are highly customizable and can resemble a Windows or Mac environment – or some combination of the two. For example, Ubuntu MATE has a “MATE Tweak” utility that lets you choose between several interfaces that resemble Windows, OS X, and more.
These can be further customized to your preferences – more so than any other operating system.
Lighter than Windows and less data extraction
Windows is growing increasingly large as Microsoft tries to serve a variety of markets with the same platform. In addition to piling on a scattered array of features, the company has gradually implemented systems building systems and methods for extracting user data. This is not particularly a concern for Linux, which is available in sizes ranging from well under 1GB to more feature packed builds of 4GB and beyond. Notably, Ubuntu MATE offers a longer lifespan than Windows 10.
Linux is generally more secure and free forever
Unless you buy a Windows 10 key from eBay or get it during the free upgrade, Microsoft's operating system costs over $100. Some Linux copies cost quite a bit for premium software and support, while most of them are free.
Additionally, because fewer people use Linux, the platform is less of a target for malware and tends to be more secure than Windows. As you already know, Windows 7 will lose support in January 2020.
Some final thoughts on switching from Windows to Linux
While upgrading to a new operating system can be daunting, switching from Windows to Linux is more than doable if done with some dedication. In most cases, major Windows programs have already been developed for Linux. If not, Windows application equivalents are generally available, such as LibreOffice , which is a stand-in for Microsoft Office.
Users who depend on a lot of Windows-only software or who are in the middle of a project may not want to make the switch. However, beyond software availability and compatibility concerns, the main reason to consider returning to Microsoft's operating system is simply that you're already used to that platform and don't want to endure the learning process of a new environment.
