Key Takeaways
- Linux offers control & security: users have more control and it’s difficult for hackers to find a one-size-fits-all vulnerability.
- Linux supports open-source & free software: popular software is open-source, free to use, and provides functional alternatives.
- Drawbacks include app compatibility issues, a learning curve for non-tech-savvy users, and troubleshooting difficulties.
Linux is often treated as a joke by non-users, but there are many reasons to love distributions like Ubuntu and OpenSUSE. Here’s what led me to switch to Linux, and how I think it compares to Windows.
Why I Switched From Windows to Linux
My first encounter with Linux was through Cyberpatriot, a high school-level cybersecurity competition. It filtered my every action through the lens of what makes a system more secure. Immediately, I noticed how unique Linux installations were.
Every installation gives users a huge amount of control over the smallest details of their setup, making it difficult for hackers to come up with one-size-fits-all attacks. It was impossible not to switch to a Linux distro after learning something like that.
I discovered Linux’s other impressive qualities over time. The OS doesn’t hold your hand, which poses an obstacle for some, but is freeing for tech-savvy users.
If you’re one of those users, that’s a strength that can easily make it better than Windows—and that isn’t all that this open-source operating system has to offer.
What I Thought Linux Did Better Than Windows
The most prominent thing Linux does better than Windows is supporting open-source development. Many distributions allow you to choose to solely install open-source packages, with the vast majority of popular software on Linux being open-source.
Because open-source programs are so popular on Linux, essentially everything you’ll need on your PC is free to use. Most distributions are completely free and, while some applications are pay-to-use, there’s almost always a free and functional alternative.
It’s also a superior operating system for older computers. As PC hardware ages, you’re forced to choose between a poorly performing Windows upgrade or an insecure older version. With Linux, however, you can have an up-to-date operating system on a laptop from 1999.
Linux is also significantly more secure than Windows. Distributions are so distinct from one another that it’s difficult for hackers to find any one-size-fits-all vulnerability. Combined with good online safety practices, Linux will keep you safe from most threats on the web.
Drawbacks of Linux I’ve Encountered
Linux isn’t without drawbacks, and some things are undeniably better on Windows than on Linux. You’ll notice that lots of things don’t work straight out of the box on Linux. At a minimum, you’ll need to be a savvy Googler to use even basic distros.
Typically, Linux distributions let you choose from different desktop environments, display servers, and other settings. You’re more likely to encounter compatibility issues unique to your specific system configuration as a result.
Another drawback you’ll immediately notice is that Linux doesn’t support a lot of popular applications. There are sometimes good alternatives, such as LibreOffice instead of Microsoft Office. These are never quite the same, though, and Wine—which lets you run some Windows programs—doesn’t always work.
If you’re not tech-savvy, there’s also a significant learning curve. You can avoid most of the technical work with a user-friendly distro like Ubuntu, relying on GUI applications, and using something like Flatpak to manage your apps. However, learning to master the Terminal and basic Bash commands is necessary to get the most out of Linux.
Practical Tips to Make Linux Your Primary OS
If you’re considering making Linux your primary OS, it’s important to look before you leap. This operating system isn’t for everyone, and you should allow yourself to experiment without committing to it as your daily driver.
The easiest way to do that is to install Linux as a dual-boot operating system. By doing this, you can use the Linux distribution you choose at any time while retaining the ability to switch to Windows when necessary. (For some professionals, that’s often.)
After installing your new Linux distro, you should also follow a tutorial on switching from Linux to Windows to make sure that you don’t miss any important steps. Forgetting to sync to your cloud storage won’t break your system, but it will be inconvenient.
Switching to Linux takes time, but you’ll be amazed at the creative and unusual things your computer can do when it isn’t bound to the limitations of conventional operating systems.
