I recently (about one week ago - I’m writing this blog on 16 Jan 2025) switched to Linux from Windows after being a hardcore Windows user since childhood. The first computer I used was when I was around 4 or 5 years old. It was my father's computer running Windows XP on a CRT monitor. I used it to play games and tinker with it. Later, I moved on to a Windows Vista laptop, followed by Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and now Windows 11. Basically, I’ve used every version from XP to 11.

Well, I didn’t completely leave Windows, I still have it on my computer since I use a dual-boot configuration. However, I’ve switched to Linux as my main operating system.

Now, coming back to the point: “Why did I leave Windows?”

I left Windows because of the following reasons:

1. Crashes During Heavy Tasks: The infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).
2. Slowness: Even though I have a fairly decent laptop, Windows in general is slow due to its unnecessary background processes.
3. Bloatware: Unnecessary AI integrations, services, and applications, which also slow it down.
4. Privacy Concerns: Windows being closed-source means they collect data we’re aware of and potentially more that we don’t know about.
5. Forceful Updates: Imagine needing to complete an important task, only to have your device stuck updating upon booting, it’s frustrating!

Before I explain why I chose Linux, I want to mention that I’m not entirely new to Linux. I was introduced to Linux in 2016 when my school had computers running Ubuntu (a widely used Linux distro).

Over the years, I’ve explored Linux through virtual machines and WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux), testing and trying out various tools and Linux distributions (Distros).

Now, coming back to why I chose Linux:

1. Security: Being open-source, you know what the OS is doing behind your back.
2. Speed and Lightweight Nature: Minimal to no bloatware (depending on the distro) makes it blazing fast.
3. No Unnecessary Background Processes: Better resource management compared to Windows.
4. Developer-Friendly Environment.
5. Customization: Linux allows you to customize every bit of it, making it truly your “personal” computer.
6. Server and Cloud Dominance: Linux is widely used in servers and the cloud landscape, making it great for system administration and DevOps professionals.
7. Cybersecurity Tools: Linux-specific tools are a boon for cybersecurity professionals.
8. No Forceful Updates: You control when (or if) to update the system.

While there are many cons to Windows, it does have some pros that I still value. Linux, too, has its limitations. Here’s why I’m using a dual-boot configuration:

1. Better Driver Support: Windows excels in supporting proprietary drivers, particularly for GPUs, peripherals, and specialized hardware.
2. Exclusive Development Tools: Tools like .NET, Visual Studio, and other Windows-specific frameworks.
3. Gaming: Windows supports DirectX and offers a wider range of games compared to Linux, making it a better choice for gamers.

Switching to Linux was a personal decision driven by my need for better performance, privacy, and customization. However, Windows, macOS, and Linux each have their strengths, and the choice depends on personal needs. For now, my dual-boot setup lets me enjoy the best of both worlds.