As the interest in Linux continues to grow, many users are contemplating a shift away from Windows. However, a significant challenge remains: the lack of native Linux versions for numerous popular Windows applications. While tools like Wine have long been utilized to bridge this gap, they often come with their own set of complications. Steam, with its Proton compatibility layer, has made strides in addressing this issue, particularly for gaming. Yet, what many may not realize is that Steam can also facilitate the use of various Windows applications on Linux, often providing a more seamless experience than Wine itself.
Proton is Wine, but better
Most of the time, at least
Valve’s Proton layer is fundamentally built on Wine, enhancing its capabilities and contributing improvements back to the open-source project. This collaboration benefits the entire ecosystem, although not every enhancement in Proton is immediately reflected in Wine. As a distinct project, Wine has its own submission processes, which can lead to delays in adopting new features. Nevertheless, running applications through Proton typically offers advantages over a standard Wine installation, as it is backed by a company with a vested interest in optimizing performance.
Steam can even replace Bottles
A more configurable experience
When Wine is installed on Linux, it creates a unified Windows filesystem for all applications, which can sometimes lead to conflicts or regressions with updates. Bottles, a popular solution, allows users to create isolated environments for each Windows application, enabling different Wine versions and configurations. Interestingly, Steam can replicate some of this functionality, albeit with certain limitations. When a Windows application is installed via Steam, it generates a separate Windows filesystem for that app, allowing for independent operation and the ability to customize settings more effectively.
Setting up is easy
Steam handles the hard part
Setting up a Windows application through Steam is a straightforward process. First, ensure Steam is installed on your Linux system. From the Steam menu, select Games and then Add non-Steam game to my library. After downloading the installer for your desired Windows application, simply choose its executable. In the compatibility tab, you can select the Proton version you wish to use. Steam defaults to Proton Experimental, which typically includes the latest fixes, but you can opt for stable releases or earlier versions as needed.
Once you run the program through Steam, it will install, but locating the actual app can be a bit tricky. Windows applications installed via Steam are stored in the following directory:
~/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/compatdata/
While the folder names may not be intuitive, you can find your app by navigating to the most recent folder, then to pfx/drive_c, and finally to either Program Files or Program Files (x86) to locate the executable. After identifying the executable, return to Steam, right-click the program, and select Properties. Here, paste the full path to the executable and adjust the Start in field accordingly. This method ensures that each app maintains its own Windows filesystem, preventing conflicts with other applications.
How well does it really work?
Don’t expect miracles
While Steam offers a promising solution, it is essential to maintain realistic expectations. Proton does not guarantee that every Windows application will function flawlessly. Initial tests with various applications revealed mixed results. For instance, while Notepad++ performed admirably, other applications like Clip Studio Paint and Microsoft 365 encountered issues during installation or execution.
However, simpler applications often yield positive outcomes. For example, Vivaldi, despite having a Linux version, successfully utilized a webcam during a Discord call, although visual feedback from others was inconsistent. The variability in performance underscores the importance of having multiple compatibility options, allowing users to switch settings as needed. For instance, when encountering UI issues with certain applications, reverting to the Legacy Steam Runtime often resolved the problem.
Steam is a great way to manage Windows apps
Valve’s Proton has already transformed the landscape for gaming on Linux, and it is encouraging to see its potential extend to a broader range of applications. Steam effectively acts as a Windows emulator, offering multiple compatibility options and simplifying filesystem management. While it may not match the flexibility of solutions like Bottles, it remains a practical choice for users already familiar with the Steam platform.
