Support for Windows 10 officially came to an end just days ago, leaving users of unsupported PCs at a pivotal juncture. The options available include a transition to MacOS, which necessitates a new hardware investment, or the more budget-friendly alternative of switching to Linux. For those hesitant to incur the expense of new equipment, Linux emerges as the viable choice.
In a strategic move coinciding with the cessation of Windows 10 support, Zorin OS unveiled its most significant upgrade to date: Zorin OS 18. This launch was met with remarkable enthusiasm, resulting in over 100,000 downloads within just two days, marking it as the most successful release in the company’s history. Notably, a substantial 72% of these downloads originated from Windows machines. The Zorin OS Group also highlighted the city of Échirolles in France, which has transitioned its town hall computers to Free & Open Source software, including Zorin OS, although only 10% of those machines are currently utilizing this operating system.
While Microsoft extended an additional year of security updates for Windows 10 at a nominal fee of approximately , this merely postpones the inevitable for users. The campaign dubbed “End of 10” has emerged, providing Windows 10 users with essential guidance for making the leap to Linux.
It’s time to switch
Having navigated the Linux landscape for nearly three decades, I can confidently assert that I have never looked back at Windows. The notion that Linux lacks software is a misconception; it boasts a plethora of applications, facilitated by built-in package managers, Flatpak, Snap, AppImages, and even the capability to run Windows applications through Wine.
Some may argue that Linux presents a steep learning curve, but I assure you, it is no more complex than using Windows or MacOS. Currently, I am undertaking a week-long experiment where I am temporarily using Windows, and the experience has been less than favorable. I will be documenting this journey soon, but I anticipate it will echo the challenges faced by those transitioning from Windows to Linux.
Every operating system has its strengths and weaknesses, yet the assertion that Linux is difficult to use can be dismissed. If you are proficient with Windows, you will find Linux equally accessible. This is particularly pertinent now, as the end of support for Windows 10 leaves many users with machines that do not meet the requirements for Windows 11. Thus, the time has come to consider making the switch. Should Linux not meet your expectations, you still have the option to invest in a new Windows 11 computer, all while retaining your older machine running Linux. If Linux aligns with your needs, you will have successfully avoided the financial burden of purchasing a new system.
Security is key
One might ponder the possibility of continuing to use Windows 10 without support. However, this approach is fraught with risk, as it is only a matter of time before vulnerabilities are exploited. Windows has long faced security challenges, and operating without updates significantly exacerbates these issues. In contrast, Linux remains resilient in this regard. Even when support for a distribution ends, upgrading to the next version is a seamless process that does not require new hardware.
Zorin OS stands out as an exceptional alternative to Windows. It can be tailored to emulate the familiar Windows interface, and its Windows App Support tool simplifies the installation of Wine for running Windows applications directly on Linux. Additionally, Zorin OS intelligently suggests Linux equivalents when it detects a downloaded Windows app installer. For example, downloading an MS Office installer prompts Zorin OS to recommend LibreOffice.
The decision lies with you, Windows users. Will you invest in a new computer for Windows 11, or will you explore the possibilities of Linux and save yourself some money? I wholeheartedly advocate for the latter.
