Choose between Linux or Windows based on your needs.
Choose between Linux or Windows based on your needs.
Simple isn't the word I'm looking for. I've supported data centers full of Windows servers and literally hundred's of thousands of clients and don't have patience anymore for that type of nonsense. Every year Linux distro developers utterly fall over themselves to make 'Nix more like Windows while simultaneously bashing the product they are trying to emulate. Also, the correct argument is nobody runs operating systems. Adults run applications....what exactly are you going to do with a Linux install or Windows install minus apps. Nothing. Nobody runs operating systems. As for damaging computers (LOL), never seen windows do this, but had many a laptop trashed because Linux historically hasn't had the best support for proper thermal mgmt on mobile chipsets (cough xubuntu cough) until the past few years. Re- security: IoT devices are the biggest security threat on the planet on they are pretty much all running embedded Linux. Don't get me started in ShellShock. Identity theft is just as likely to occur on a 'Nix browser as Edge running on Windows. I've tried to push 'Nix distros for non profits, and while the shell's are getting slick and polished (certainly better than the Windows 8 metro dumpster fire) inevitably they end up with some gadget or plugin or app that doesn't run on 'Nix. For the record the BSDs in my experience have legit performance improvements on legacy hardware. All the lastest distros I've tried are just as bloated on Windows
You're in luck, really. Research shows between half and a million Windows systems were lost in October 2018, and the trend continued. I've gathered several articles along with my own insights. Everything from web browsing to accounting, music creation, documents, spreadsheets, audio and video editing has all been handled using free and dependable tools.
I'm trying to identify the topic you're referring to. Many people report problems with installing or updating Linux on Windows, even using package managers. It seems unusual for such issues to occur in a large user base like Windows, and online reports don't typically mention computers being damaged by updates. The situation appears to involve software instability rather than a widespread technical failure.
Computers aren't completely broken; the issue lies in system corruption or data loss. In 2018, monthly updates sometimes removed essential drivers, requiring reinstallation. By October, the machine wouldn't start normally, so a backup was made using Linux. After switching, the Windows drive was reinstalled, restoring functionality. The Linux drive was connected next, and everything worked smoothly thereafter.
If there was no on-site IT support, users faced challenges. Updating or installing apps to Linux has proven straightforward for many. Sometimes powering down mid-installation caused minor issues, but fixes were quick.
A notable incident in 2018 saw updates trigger deletions of apps, including Minecraft and Xbox One. Users reported problems with file integrity and updates pausing unexpectedly. Many found the transition to Linux stable once issues were resolved, though some faced initial disruptions.
In both operating systems, the main issues usually stem from the chair and KBM...
Forbes piece sparked curiosity with its headline claims. The article noted potential uninstall issues during OS updates, though users who stay current usually avoid problems. Microsoft offers a beta program called Windows Insiders, letting developers test software with new versions. Updates to Windows 11 may remove certain tools, but these are typically marked as deprecated. Despite this, the situation was resolved with proper guidance and updates.
Documents remained intact, and the problem stemmed from a failed login or temporary account setup. Microsoft provided free data recovery assistance for those who lost files, though this service isn’t available on Linux-based systems. The incident was isolated to a small group and resolved through support channels.
Users often face vague warnings like “You’re using it wrong,” but many have successfully fixed similar issues. The Insider Program has improved, with developers encouraged to report bugs directly. Linux communities sometimes overlook such feedback, but improvements are being made.
Google’s handling of Chromium Edge and Microsoft’s collaboration remain contentious, with mixed outcomes for users. The situation highlights the importance of testing updates and leveraging official support channels.
I believe the OP's inquiry was sufficiently addressed in the initial four replies, before all that confusion about Linux being the "one way" to a good computing experience...
The debate centered on Windows versus Linux. I provided reasons for each choice and faced criticism about my response. It appeared in a selection list. Did I have sufficient background for that recommendation? Was I familiar with the topics being discussed? I shared an answer that has proven effective for many users and installations, not just the original poster. My friend requires a straightforward option—something free of virus risks and compatible with low-end hardware. It shouldn’t require a product key. I also questioned whether listing my suggestions in an easily read format counts as a hard sell. I aimed to demonstrate real experience with computers, having worked on them before most people here were born. Mentioning past help from NASA might strengthen my credibility.
I highly suggest OpenBSD for machines with limited specs, especially when gaming isn't a priority. The operating system uses minimal resources and works well with many lightweight desktop environments.