Which operating system is better - Windows or Linux? The main advantages and differences between Linux and Windows.
Choosing an operating system is an issue that you have to understand thoroughly. A few years ago this problem did not exist. But now all PC users can choose which OS to install on their computer. A lot depends on this. "Linux" or "Windows" - which is better? This question will be answered further. What should users pay attention to? Which operating system should be preferred in this or that case? What do users say about them? Understanding all this is not as difficult as it seems. The main thing is to consider all the advantages and disadvantages of each operating system from all sides.
Operation speed
It's no secret that the first parameter of any operating system is its performance. I don’t want to use slow software, it brings a lot of problems to users.
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better? If we evaluate operating systems by performance, then it is Linux that allows you not to worry about the speed of processing commands and operations. Even Microsoft says that Windows is a very slow OS. Yes, you can make it work quite quickly, but Windows still cannot compare with the previously mentioned system. It is significantly slower in terms of speed. Especially some builds like Vista.
PC requirements
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better to choose? It's difficult to decide. You should pay attention to such a feature as the computer hardware requirements. This parameter All operating systems and software have it.
Windows is a fairly demanding product. Some versions of systems will not run on older computers. To ensure minimum performance, you will have to make sure that the PC is very powerful by modern standards. But there are exceptions. For example, Windows 10 should now run on weak computers. It was for such purposes that it was created.
Linux is an operating system that is suitable for any computer. The distribution, compared to Windows, cannot be called demanding. It will run on both weak and powerful PCs. With all this, as already mentioned, the user will receive OS performance.
Settings
Which is better - Linux or Windows 10? Many PC users ask a similar question. In particular, if they don't have too much powerful computers. You have to pay attention to many nuances and features.
A distinctive feature of Linux is that all the settings in this operating system are located in one place. The interface is clear; you don’t need to search for this or that item all over your computer. No numerous windows, utilities or drop-down menus. Everything is extremely simple and clear. A few mouse clicks - and all the operating system settings are at your fingertips.
Windows 10, like all other versions of the Microsoft OS, has a confusing settings menu. Each point is located in a separate place. To find this or that setting, you always have to wade through numerous dialog boxes, submenus and lists. The settings in Windows cannot be called clear. Therefore, it will be easier for novice users to set certain OS parameters in Linux.
Software installation
But that's not all. "Linux" or "Windows" - which is better? To understand the answer to this question, the user must pay attention to the numerous pros and cons of each operating system.
The OS itself is an environment for installing utilities and programs. Accordingly, it is important for each user to initialize the software necessary for work. In Windows, doing this is not as easy as it seems. This is despite the fact that the process of searching and installing applications is familiar to many users. Initially, you need to go through the following steps:
- search for the creator/developer’s website (or another place where you can download the installation file);
- checking the utility for viruses;
- analysis of the nuances of installing the program (each software may have its own characteristics).
In fact, modern users are nothing special about this process do not see. Yes, Windows 10 now has a specialized application for named Windows Store, which makes searching for certain programs somewhat easier. But at the same time, the utility has a meager selection of software. For now there is no hope for it.
With Linux, the process of installing programs is simplified. In this operating system, you can find almost all the software in a specialized application. It's built into the system. Just 2 clicks - and required program will be installed. No additional searching, downloading or security checks!
Interface
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better to choose? It all depends on the user's preferences. The operating system interface plays an important role. After all, people, both advanced and novice users, should be comfortable working with the software.
In Windows, as already mentioned, it is not easy to find certain settings. In particular, because of the interface. One day, the developers removed the only menu item that “saved” users and allowed them to work normally with the OS. We are talking about "Startup". Fortunately, this component was returned.
If we talk about the Windows interface as a whole, users are already accustomed to it. But in the “top ten” there are a lot of restrictions and incomprehensible elements. Some people are ironically happy that in Windows 10 they are allowed to change the color of window panels and the Start menu, as well as set wallpaper on the desktop. Unfortunately, there are more and more restrictions in Windows.
But Linux has a simpler and more understandable interface. Here, according to users, you are your own boss. You can instantly change the interface the way you want. For example, in Linux Mint it is proposed to zoom in using special settings environment for Windows or MacOS. Very comfortably. And this despite the fact that a user accustomed to Windows notices that Linux’s “appearance” is not the most convenient. But you can get used to everything.
About security
Which is better - Linux or Windows 7? An important point is to ensure data privacy, as well as the security of the operating system. What can you say about the OS data?
A lot can be said about the situation with Windows of any version. In short, Windows is constantly under threat of infection by some kind of virus. It could be a harmless browser hijacker or a serious Trojan. Also in Windows 10, for example, the operating system collects user data and sends it to Microsoft, thereby putting the information at risk and violating privacy. It is difficult to “wean” the operating system from such actions. Besides everything else, official updates Windows sometimes causes a lot of problems for users. This is no secret to anyone.
In Linux similar problems are missing. Some people say that very few viruses are written for Linux. Therefore, we can call the OS as safe as possible. In addition, the distribution does not collect any user data. Confidentiality is fully ensured here. You may not even need antivirus programs!
Availability and choice
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better? The availability of a particular product plays an important role. After all, the user must purchase this or that software before use.
Windows is inferior to Linux in this area. There are not many versions of Windows known in the world, some of them are not in demand (like Vista), some have already gone out of fashion and are not used at all (for example, Windows 98). Accordingly, most often users choose between XP, Windows 7, 8, 10. And even then support for the first OS has been discontinued.
Windows can be called affordable - the operating system can be found in any store, on almost every computer. Both in the form of already installed software and separate installation disks. Just to use it you will have to purchase the system for money. You can download a pirated copy, but this is not the most The best decision. So "Linux" or "Windows"? Comparing these systems will help you decide on the answer. What can you say about each of them?
Linux is a free distribution in principle. The operating system has many different versions that are freely available. Installation discs or the system is also sold as software already installed on the computer. But most often Linux is positioned as a free OS with a wide selection of versions.
conclusions
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better for games and other purposes? Based on all of the above, we can come to the conclusion that it is the first operating system that is in the lead. And indeed it is. Many people say that it is best to give preference to Linux. However, gamers should take into account that most games still run primarily on Windows. But developers are struggling with this problem.
"Linux" or "Windows" - which is better? User reviews are divided. This is an eternal debate in which it is impossible to come to a common opinion. According to statistics, about 90% of users work with the usual Windows, despite the numerous shortcomings of the system. But Linux is also being adopted with great success.
What to choose? It all depends on the personal preferences of users. Can work on any operating system. But Linux has a number of advantages that are unlikely to be realized in Windows. This should always be remembered.
February 27, 2015A lot has already been written on this topic on the Internet, both in the form of articles and in live discussions. Why else?
There are two reasons. Firstly, what I personally read on this topic contains a lot of emotions and little accurate information. Secondly, very often comparisons and contrasts are made completely unprofessionally, on the principle of what is better - hot or green.
For a correct comparison, you first need to clearly define what is better for? In what aspect of computer use do these operating systems compare?
Since I work mainly with the field of “desktop computers”, I know it well, and also because this area of use is the largest, I will make my comparison in relation to it.
First, we need to define the term “desktop computer.”
It's not literally a computer standing or lying on a table. It can be under the table, on your lap, on the bed, it doesn’t matter where, but it is used to work with text documents, spreadsheets, unprofessional or semi-professional processing of photo or video materials, browsing Internet sites, communicating via the Internet. In general, what is popularly called “Internet, Word, Excel.”
That is, this is a computer or laptop used at home or in the office for a fairly wide range of simple tasks. Excluding highly specialized and highly professional areas such as engineering design or video production. In the West, this segment of the computer market is called the “SOHO (small office, home office) sector.”
Differences between Linux and Windows
It is necessary to begin the comparison by describing the fundamental differences between the MS Windows and GNU/Linux operating systems. To accurately understand who is who.
Commercial and free software
The first difference is that the operating system (hereinafter abbreviated as OS) MS Windows is developed and supported by one single company - Microsoft Corporation. She also owns the copyright to this product, and she also charges a fee for using the Windows OS. Free using Windows Microsoft does not allow it. That is, if you want to use this OS, you must pay Microsoft (not directly, of course, but through sellers of its products). In other words, in order to use Windows you must buy official copy this OS in the store. An official copy means a disk and accompanying documents produced by Microsoft.
GNU/Linux is an OS developed and supported by dozens, if not hundreds of companies in different countries world and thousands of programmers. The rights to this OS have been transferred to public ownership. And although there are many companies in the world that provide paid technical support for this OS, the use of GNU/Linux itself is not subject to financial conditions. That is, you do not have to pay anyone anything in order to have the right to use Linux. Although there are some distributions that are provided only for money, most Linux distributions completely free.
Graphical User Environment (GUI)
Second fundamental difference is that in Windows OS the graphical user environment is an integral part of the OS. That is, Windows simply does not exist without a graphical environment (console mode).
While GNU/Linux is a text (console) mode OS and the graphical environment is a separate software product, like a text editor or video player. There are more than 10 programs that implement a graphical environment for the GNU/Linux operating system, but only two are the most widely used - GNOME and KDE.
Why am I focusing on this aspect? The fact is that the graphical user environment is necessary and the most important part OS for desktop computers. And when comparing the two operating systems from a GUI point of view, it is important to understand that we are not comparing Windows with Linux, but with one of the graphical shells, for example with KDE.
What is in the box"?
The third difference is that Windows OS, as a final product, consists of the OS itself and a small set of application programs that have very modest functionality. In other words, when installing Windows, you only get an OS and in order to solve some practical problems you will need to additionally find and install application programs.
GNU/Linux in its pure form, as an OS, is distributed only in highly specialized areas of application. And in relation to the segment of the computer market I am considering, so-called Linux distributions are used. A distribution kit is a set consisting of the GNU/Linux OS, a graphical user environment and a set of application programs. That is, by installing a Linux distribution, you get a ready-to-use practical use a system to which you may not need to add anything else.
Well, since Linux does not belong to anyone in particular and there are different graphical environments and different application programs, as a result of this, hundreds of companies or even just groups of individuals offer dozens of Linux distributions. Some of them are almost like twins, others are very different. And in Windows world the differences are only in the versions of the Windows OS itself and these versions are smaller than Linux distributions.
Linux distributions differ in their sets of application programs and drivers. The best distributions in Russian:
Linux vs Windows
Now I move on to the actual comparison, and I will do this by simply listing the pros and cons of each operating system.
MS Windows OS, pros
Windows equipment
Supports a very large range computer equipment. Whatever exotic hardware you come across, you will almost certainly be able to use it under Windows. Although you may need time to find the right driver program.
Programs for Windows
Great amount application programs, today there are already more than one hundred thousand titles (perhaps more than 200 thousand - no one knows the exact figure). For any application task, there are at least several dozen on the Windows platform; for popular tasks, there are hundreds of programs. There is plenty to choose from. For every taste and color.
Windows Specialists
There are a large number of specialists who know the Windows OS family more or less well. That is, if you need help, you will find it easily and at a reasonable price.
MS Windows OS, cons
Windows cost
Relatively high cost. In the cheapest version, it costs more than $50, despite the fact that such “cheap” Windows, purchased with a new computer, is “tied” to this computer. It is called OEM license- a copy of Windows that is installed on a new computer by the manufacturer of this computer. Most often, OEM Windows is installed on laptops. This means that if you change your computer, you will have to spend money on Windows again.
Windows options, which can be installed on any computer, are priced at over $100 or more. It is called retail license(in stores, such copies of Windows are usually called boxed copies, Box). And this is the cost of Windows for one computer. And if you need an OS, for example, for five computers that you already have (not new ones), then you will have to pay for five copies of Windows from 500 to a thousand dollars.
Viruses and Windows
Very a large number of malware(so called computer viruses). For Windows, this is a particularly serious problem; for example, in 2017 and early 2018 in Russia there was an epidemic of Windows infections with an encryption virus. Many then lost their files stored on Windows disks. And this problem forces the end user to bear additional costs. Either to purchase a good anti-virus program or to contact specialists in cases where malware makes it impossible normal work Windows OS. But this problem can be reduced through skilled configuration of the Windows OS and its careful use in risk situations, the main one of which is the Internet.
Windows Developer Dependency
Strict dependence on the developer. Windows OS is distributed only in binary form, which is difficult to change, but moreover, Microsoft generally prohibits making any changes to the working codes of Windows OS. So if you need some functionality that is not currently available in Windows, then you can only hope that Microsoft will implement this functionality someday or look for some “patches” in the form of application programs from third party developers. However, for the average user this is an insignificant drawback.
GNU/Linux OS, advantages
Linux cost
Relatively low cost. Now, high-speed Internet has become widespread and therefore there is no problem in downloading 1 or 2 gigabytes - this is the average size of a Linux distribution (maximum 4 GB). Most Linux distributions are freely available on the Internet. That is, the cost of Linux is, roughly speaking, the cost of Internet traffic and the price of pure DVD disc, to which you want to write the downloaded file. Or the cost of a flash drive (you can also write the distribution onto a flash drive).
Viruses for Linux
There is virtually no malware, at least to date, for this platform. This allows you to avoid additional costs to prevent or eliminate damage from malware.
Linux developer independence
Developer independence. If you need some functionality that is missing in the Linux OS, you can add it on your own, of course, if you know how to program. This opportunity exists due to the fact that the Linux OS is distributed not only in binary form, but also in source codes, and there are no prohibitions on modifying these source codes.
However, such a feature is unlikely to be needed in the SOHO segment. But it is there. If you need (or want) you can conduct a security audit for your Linux distribution. Or make your own changes to the program code.
GNU/Linux OS, cons
Linux hardware
Support for computer equipment, especially external ones, such as printers or USB devices. Perhaps the worst situation is with USB scanners and printers. It is quite possible that you will not be able to use some equipment under Linux. But the problem can be largely solved through a more careful approach to the selection of equipment. Before purchasing a piece of hardware, you can search the Internet for information about the possibility of its operation under Linux. And the situation with drivers for Linux is improving every year, as Linux spreads more and more throughout the world. Today, in 2018, the most popular Linux distributions usually “pick up” all hardware out of the box.
Programs for Linux
The number of application programs is significantly smaller than for the Windows platform. Moreover, if we're talking about about some programs - undisputed leaders in their applied areas, then under the Linux OS there are neither corresponding versions of these programs themselves, nor other programs comparable in functionality. Such application programs include Adobe products, the engineering design program AutoCAD, and text recognition programs (FineReader). Of course, under Linux OS there is also graphic editor and modeling/design programs, but they are far behind the leaders.
In particular, there is no version of MS Office for Linux. For Linux there is a package of office programs similar in purpose - LibreOffice (format OpenOffice documents). However, there is not 100% compatibility between these packages. MS Office cannot work with OpenOffice format documents at all. Although LibreOffice can read and edit Word files and Excel, but does not provide full compatibility. Especially for complex Excel tables.
However, not everyone needs programs at the level of Adobe PhotoShop or AutoCAD. For common cases, programs for Linux OS are quite sufficient. This disadvantage can be partially compensated for by the fact that some Windows programs can be run on the Linux platform. This is not possible for all Windows programs, but it may be that the Windows program you need will work under Linux. Eat special program for Linux, called Wine, through which you can run Windows programs.
Linux Specialists
The number of good or decent specialists is smaller than for the Windows platform. That is, if you need help, it will not be so easy to find someone who is well versed in Linux. It is quite possible that the cost of such a specialist’s services will be higher than in the case of Windows.
Summary
As you can see, the pros and cons of the two operating systems are opposite.
I specifically did not consider, in the context of contrast, the differences in the graphical environments of the Windows and Linux platforms, since there are no conceptual differences in them. A caveat needs to be made here. When I say there are no differences, I mean the “Linux” graphical environments GNOME and KDE and the “original” graphical environment of the MS Windows OS family.
Of course, there are differences between them, but they are not fundamental, and therefore any person who is confident enough in one of these three graphical environments will be able to understand the other two. For example, if you are a confident Windows user, you will not have any difficulty getting comfortable with the KDE or GNOME GUI shells. It also uses windows, buttons and menus.
I also left out various myths that arise almost every time when it comes to comparing the Linux and Windows platforms. Like those that Linux is difficult to configure, and Windows is an unstable and insecure OS. Both are incorrect, as is much else that is said and written on this topic. In general, the topic of myths about Windows and Linux is very interesting, but a separate material should be devoted to this.
The pros and cons that I have listed are actual disadvantages and advantages. What you really need to think about when deciding which OS to use. And I believe this information is quite enough for you to figure out what will be best for you, in your particular situation.
Personally, I think the main disadvantage of MS Windows is its high price and the main advantage of Linux is its low cost. Everything else can be neglected.
In other words, if cost is not critical for you, use Windows. And if every ruble counts, then think about Linux.
I myself treat both operating systems without the fanaticism characteristic of many fans of both operating systems. In my daily work I use both operating systems. Depending on what I need to do. For example, I often use Linux as a “portable” mobile OS - I plug a flash drive into someone else’s computer, turn it on, and in a minute or a minute and a half I have a ready-made, fully functional OS. The Internet, documents, some system tasks - all this is accessible from any computer, even if it itself does not have any OS.
So, I can say with full responsibility that they are both suitable for the “desktop computers” segment. But if you decide to use Linux, then you just need to remember about the existing bottlenecks of this OS.
But before you make a decision on using Linux, I advise you to precisely define:
- What hardware will you use? Not only the hardware of the computer itself, but also peripheral equipment.
- What applications will you need?
And then find out if it is supported on any Linux distribution.
Security, freedom, free, open source, popularity, amount of software, all these are the main differences between Linux and Windows, which most often become the reason for users switching to this operating system. Everyone, or almost all users know about them. But what if we dig deeper into how exactly these systems differ? What are the fundamental technical differences?
In this article we will look at how Windows differs from Linux from a technical point of view, we will try to figure out why Linux is considered more secure, and also understand the essence of the differences.
The main component of every operating system is its kernel. Even so, there are huge differences between operating systems. Linux kernel- monolithic, it consists of one file, and modules can be used to expand its functionality.
All programs communicate with the kernel via system calls, they are standardized, so the same programs can run on different platforms running Linux, such as x86 and ARM.
All drivers are built into the kernel, but most programs are in user space, including the graphical shell. The monolithic structure provides more security, because if you disable module support at the kernel build stage, you will not be able to run your code at the kernel level.
This is the main, but not obvious, difference between Linux and Windows. Windows has a completely different type of kernel. It uses a hybrid core, which consists of many small parts - dll libraries, each of which is strictly responsible for its own function.
But that’s not all, system calls are not used; instead, user programs are forced to access the documented libraries user32.dll, gdi32.dll, kenel32.dll, advapi32.dll. These libraries call functions from ntdll.dll, which is directly linked to the kernel.
The drivers are controlled by the hal.dll library and are connected to the kernel separately. Output to the screen is controlled by the graphics subsystem of the kernel, which includes all work with graphics, including the shell. The ability to use kernel user mode makes it easy to adapt the system to any type of program, such as win16 or POSIX. But this flexibility comes at the cost of performance.
2. File system structure and disks
That the operating room is very different linux system You will immediately notice the structure of the file system from Windows. Linux presents the file system more realistically, as it actually is. The file system structure begins with the root, or, in other words, the main directory system partition, and all other drives in the required subdirectories are connected there.
Files are sorted into directories depending on their type, for example, executables are in /bin/, settings are in /etc/, and resources are in /usr/. It turns out that one program is divided throughout file system, but it doesn't find any difficulties due to the package manager.
Storage devices in Linux are named alphabetically, and the partitions on them are named by numbers. For example, the first HDD will have the name sda, the second - sdb. And the sections on the first one will be numbered - sda1, sda2, sda3 and so on. Partitions can be freely mounted in any the desired folder, for example, as the home directory or /var/.
Windows creates an additional abstraction. Although disks and partitions are named in a similar way as in Linux, all this is hidden by the operating system. The user is provided with such an abstraction as drive C:, D:, E:, F: and so on. Each of them is a partition on the hard drive, and more detailed information The system hides it from the user. This is even better for beginners. As for the distribution of files, one program is located in one folder, with all executable files, settings and resources.
3. Configuration and data storage
On Linux, all settings are stored in regular files, which are located in the file system. Global settings files are located in the /etc/ folder. They apply to all users who use this computer. Settings user programs are located in hidden subdirectories of the user's home directory.
Such storage is quite convenient, since configuration files can be easily transferred to another computer, and decentralization increases the reliability of the system. Each program creates its own configuration file, with their own syntax, and they are edited mainly manually. Almost all settings can be done through the GUI, but GUI utilities often create very confusing configurations. Handmade always looks better.
It is too important difference linux from windows. Windows stores all application, system, and driver settings in a special database called the Windows Registry. All settings are divided into branches and keys, and programs can access them very quickly.
This method of provision provides security of settings by default, the ability to remote change and easily change them using graphic programs. But there are also big disadvantages: the settings cannot be transferred to another computer, centralized system settings may be corrupted and this will damage the entire system.
In addition, programs very quickly fill up the registry and it begins to take up too much, so it bootstrap it takes a lot of time. It is difficult to say which technology is better, but this is also the difference between Linux and Windows and only you can choose what to use.
4. User management and rights
Linux was originally designed as a multi-user system. Files have three access categories - owner user, user group, and everyone else. There are also three access options - read, write and execute. Using a combination of these simple parameters and access is controlled to all files in the system, and since in Linux everything is a file, that means to everything.
Windows was designed to be run by only one user, which initially created a lot of security problems. But then the user system was finalized into a multi-user system, which, in addition to the owner, group and others, includes detailed ACL lists access. We can say that the difference between Windows and Linux is not so great.
5. Program management and updates
Let's continue windows comparison and linux. Managing programs and updating them is a huge difference between Windows and Linux, everything is implemented so differently.
Linux has repositories of software packages. There is, if not everything, then almost everything necessary programs, drivers and system components. You will almost never need to download programs from the Internet, although this is also possible.
Using centralized repositories provides greater security, reliability, and the ability to update. As soon as a new version of the program has appeared in the repository, you can update it. The update process is performed with one command for the entire system at once, when it is convenient for you.
There are no repositories in Windows; you will have to search for all the necessary programs on the Internet and install them manually. Each program will update itself when it sees fit, including the system. To update the system, you will need to reboot, and Windows can be very persistent when it comes to installing updates.
conclusions
In this article we tried to figure out how Windows differs from Linux. Moreover, we did not dwell on such well-known things as freedom and freeness, but tried to reveal precisely technical details, as far as possible in such a short article. If you are just about to choose an operating system, I hope this comparison of Windows and Linux was useful to you.
To conclude, a short video about the eternal debate between Windows vs Linux, although it is already a little outdated, it is told quite interestingly and to the point:
In fact, Linux users are different from Windows users just as their operating systems differ. Built on Unix systems and as a counterweight to Windows, Linux has created a completely opposite ecosystem. Even though new Linux users come directly from Windows, they behave differently in some areas.
After a long 17-year observation of Linux users, Canadian journalist Bruce Byfield offers 7 theses that distinguish Linux users from Windows.
Linux users do everything themselves
Windows users tend to tinker less with the operating system for a number of reasons. The Windows registry is very difficult to read and edit, and if users have a problem, they try to seek professional help. In fact, quite successful tech companies who, for $80 an hour, help make backup or delete unnecessary files.
In contrast, Linux is perceived as a hobby; the system was designed for those who like to do their own customization. Over a long period of time professional support was unavailable. Instead, Linux users exchanged information among themselves and learned to help each other. Today this tradition is slightly broken, for example, due to GRUB 2, which eliminates manual editing. But the basic concept of manual manipulation remains.
Linux users are confident with the command line
Contrary to popular myth, Linux users can work comfortably without leaving their desktop. However, most of the features are available from the command line and perhaps due to the general concept manual editing, many users sooner or later start working with it. Once at the command line, they find a powerful and effective alternative that turns out to be not as scary as they feared.
For comparison, when Microsoft developed its own command line, she didn’t fit in so well ordinary users. Porting the Bash shell also did not fundamentally change the situation, because Windows uses a hands-off approach for inexperienced users.
Linux users are more security conscious
Despite numerous stories about password sniffers and malware, many Windows users refuse to use a password or run applications with limited privileges. This practice, in their opinion, is inconvenient (although it is actually much more convenient than reinstalling the operating system every six months to clean up infections).
Bruce has only met a couple of times with users who access the Internet from root rights, but they are exceptions. Designed for security, Linux makes users care about security right away. Bruce knows of users who consider surfing the Internet on Windows a potentially dangerous activity.
Linux users want more customization
Perhaps because many Linux users come from Windows, they prefer to configure the operating system settings themselves. Opportunities for them to change background image and font in Windows are insufficient. Linux not only offers wide choose window managers and desktop environments, but also more detailed features: for example, the conditions for desktop activity or the positioning of icons in the window title bar.
This preference is so popular that over the past 8 years, when customization restrictions have been introduced, it has led to strong user backlash against certain desktop skins.
Linux users are accustomed to variety
Unix design means small specialized applications. Applications such as LibreOffice and Krita have circumvented this feature. At least since office applications everything is fine on Linux, making it easier for former Windows users to adapt.
However, even now, many categories of applications, including music players, messengers, email clients and web browsers, have several full-fledged alternatives.
Moreover, since almost everything alternative applications are free, Linux users can try several applications before making their final choice.
This situation is different on Windows, where many users are surprised when they learn that there are alternatives. In fact, many Windows users choose open source software alternatives such as Firefox or LibreOffice.
Linux users are accustomed to not paying for programs
Free licenses concern the availability of software and are distributed free of charge. Linux users are not used to paying for software. If free software of the required specialization is not available, Linux users turn to cloud services, for example, the free Google Docs service.
Some Linux users pay for specialized software that is not essential. Others buy professional products, but these cases can be considered exceptions. Unlike Windows users, who believe that if a program is free, it is of poor quality, Linux users see no obvious reason to pay for software.
Linux users familiar with licensing
The understanding of licensing is still prevalent in the Linux user community. Majority Linux applications distributed freely ( Open Source) unlike Windows programs, which have restrictions on use. In this case, the license governs how the application can be copied, modified, and distributed. Often license agreement The modified program uses the original original document.
Some Linux users only use free programs, others use proprietary software in the absence of alternatives or based on operational requirements. However, very few Linux users are unaware of licensing issues.
View from the outside
These differences form completely different approaches to using a computer. One of the reasons for this is due to fewer products for Linux users and the fundamental difference of this market from the Windows systems market.
Many developers are aiming to make Linux more and more like Windows. Snappy and Flatpak packaging systems attempt to imitate installation programs Windows. However, their efforts will likely not be successful. Most Linux users believe that this change will bring minimal benefit. In any case, they are deeply convinced that their habits are correct.
According to materials. Photo: Linux Format
Found a typo? Press Ctrl + Enter
A lot has already been written on this topic on the Internet, both in the form of articles and in live discussions. Why else?
There are two reasons. Firstly, what I personally read on this topic contains a lot of emotions and little accurate information. Secondly, very often comparisons and contrasts are made completely unprofessionally, on the principle of what is better - hot or green.
For a correct comparison, you first need to clearly define what is better for? In what aspect of computer use do these operating systems compare?
Since I work mainly with the field of “desktop computers”, I know it well, and also because this area of use is the largest, I will make my comparison in relation to it.
First, we need to define the term “desktop computer.”
It's not literally a computer standing or lying on a table. It can be under the table, on your lap, on the bed, it doesn’t matter where, but it is used for working with text documents, non-professional or semi-professional processing of photo or video materials, browsing Internet sites, and communicating via the Internet.
That is, it is a computer used at home or in the office for a fairly wide range of simple tasks, excluding highly specialized and highly professional areas such as engineering design or video production. In the West, this is called the “SOHO (small office, home office) sector.”
It also needs to be said about the fundamental differences between the MS Windows and GNU/Linux operating systems. To accurately understand what is what.
The first difference is that the operating system (hereinafter abbreviated as OS) MS Windows is developed and supported by one single company - the Microsoft corporation. It also owns the copyright to this product, and it also charges for the use of Windows OS and free use Microsoft does not allow it. That is, if you want to use this OS you must pay Microsoft.
GNU/Linux is an operating system developed and supported by dozens, if not hundreds of companies around the world and thousands of programmers. The rights to this OS have been transferred to public ownership. And although there are many companies in the world that provide paid technical support for this OS, the use of GNU/Linux itself is not subject to financial conditions. That is, you do not have to pay anyone anything in order to have the right to use Linux.
The second fundamental difference is that in Windows the graphical user environment is an integral part of the OS. That is, Windows simply does not exist in a version without a graphical environment (console mode).
While GNU/Linux is a text (console) mode OS and the graphical environment is a separate software product, like a text editor or video player. There are more than 10 programs that implement a graphical environment for the GNU/Linux operating system, but only two are widely used - GNOME and KDE.
Why am I focusing on this aspect? The fact is that the graphical user environment is a necessary and important part of the OS for desktop computers. And when comparing the two operating systems from this point of view, it is important to understand that we are not comparing Windows with Linux, but with one of the graphical environments, for example with KDE.
The third difference is that MS Windows as a final product consists of the OS itself and a small set of application programs that have very modest functionality. In other words, when installing Windows, you only get an OS and in order to solve some problems you need to additionally find and install application programs.
GNU/Linux in its pure form, as an OS, is distributed only in highly specialized areas of application. And in relation to the case I am considering, so-called Linux distributions are used. A distribution kit is a set consisting of the GNU/Linux OS, a graphical user environment and a set of application programs. That is, by installing a Linux distribution, you get a system ready for practical use, to which you may not need to add anything else.
Well, since Linux does not belong to anyone in particular and there are different graphical environments and different application programs, as a result of this, hundreds of companies or even just groups of individuals offer dozens of Linux distributions. Some of them are almost like twins, some are very different. And in the world Windows differences consist only in versions of the Windows OS itself and these versions are smaller than Linux distributions.
Now I move on to the actual comparison, and I will do this by simply listing the pros and cons of each operating system.
MS Windows OS, pros.
- Supports a very wide range of computer hardware. Whatever exotic hardware you come across, you will almost certainly be able to use it under Windows. Although you may need time to find the right driver program.
- A huge number of application programs, today there are probably more than one hundred thousand titles. For any application task on the Windows platform there are at least several dozen; for popular tasks there are hundreds of programs. There is plenty to choose from. For every taste.
- There are a large number of specialists who know the Windows OS family more or less well. That is, if you need help, you will find it easily and at a reasonable price.
MS Windows OS, cons.
- Relatively high cost. In the cheapest version, it costs more than $50, despite the fact that such “cheap” Windows, purchased with a new computer, is “tied” to this computer. This means that if you change your computer, you will have to spend money on Windows again. Computer-independent Windows options have prices closer to two hundred US dollars and higher. And this is the cost of Windows for one computer. And if you need an OS, for example, for five computers that you already have (not new ones), then you will have to pay about a thousand dollars for five copies of Windows.
- A very large number of malicious programs (so-called computer viruses). For the Windows XP version, this is a particularly serious problem that forces the end user to incur additional costs. Either to purchase a good anti-virus program or to contact specialists in cases where malware makes the normal operation of the Windows OS impossible. This problem can be reduced by properly configuring Windows and using it carefully in risky situations, the main one being the Internet.
- Strict dependence on the developer. Windows OS is distributed only in binary form, which is difficult to change, but moreover, Microsoft generally prohibits making any changes to the working codes of Windows OS. So if you need some functionality that is not currently available in Windows, then you can only hope that Microsoft will implement this functionality someday or look for some “patches” from third-party developers. However, for the average user this is an insignificant drawback.
GNU/Linux OS, advantages.
- Relatively low cost. In a more or less large city, it is quite possible to get a disk with any Linux distribution for the price of a blank CD\DVD disk by contacting enthusiasts who distribute Linux. If there are none in your city, then for 200-300 rubles you can buy the most popular distributions via the Internet, with delivery by mail, and this can be done in any locality where the post office operates. You can also receive a CD with the distribution by mail completely free of charge. Ubuntu Linux. At the same time, having only one physical copy of the Linux distribution, you get the right to install it on any number of computers. That is, returning, for example, about five computers, if you buy one copy of the Linux distribution for 300 rubles, this will be all your expenses for five computers - you will not need to buy five copies. So, on the one hand (Windows) about a thousand dollars, on the other hand (Linux) about 300 rubles (or even less than that).
- There is virtually no malware, at least to date, for this platform. This allows you to avoid additional costs to prevent or eliminate damage from malware.
- Developer independence. If you need some functionality that is missing in the Linux OS, you can add it on your own. This possibility exists due to the fact that the Linux OS is distributed not only in binary form, but also in source code, and there are no prohibitions on modifying these source codes.
GNU/Linux OS, cons.
- Support for computer equipment, especially external ones, such as printers or USB devices, is significantly worse than for the Windows platform. Perhaps the worst situation is with scanners and USB, as well as internal HSF/HCF modems. It is quite possible that you will not be able to use some equipment under Linux. But the problem can be largely solved through a more careful approach to the selection of equipment. Before purchasing a piece of hardware, you can search the Internet for information about the possibility of its operation under Linux.
- The number of application programs is significantly smaller than for the Windows platform. Moreover, if we are talking about some programs - the undisputed leaders in their application areas, then under the Linux OS there are neither corresponding versions of these programs themselves, nor other programs comparable in functionality. Such application programs include Adobe products, 1C economic programs, AutoCAD engineering design program, text recognition programs (FineReader). Of course, there are graphic editors and modeling/design programs for Linux OS, but they are much inferior to the leaders. However, programs at the level of Adobe PhotoShop or AutoCAD are not necessary for everyone, and for common cases, programs for the Linux OS are quite sufficient. This disadvantage can be partially compensated for by the fact that some Windows programs can be run on the Linux platform. This is not possible for all Windows programs, but it may be that the Windows program you need will work under Linux.
- The number of good or decent specialists is smaller than for the Windows platform. That is, if you need help, it will not be so easy to find someone who is well versed in Linux. It is quite possible that the cost of such a specialist’s services will be higher than in the case of Windows.
As you can see, the pros and cons of the two operating systems are opposite.
I specifically did not consider, in the context of contrast, the differences in the graphical environments of the Windows and Linux platforms, since there are no conceptual differences in them. A caveat needs to be made here. When I say there are no differences, I mean the “Linux” graphical environments GNOME and KDE and the “original” graphical environment of the MS Windows OS family.
Of course, there are differences between them, but they are not fundamental, and therefore any person who is confident enough in one of these three graphical environments will be able to understand the other two. For example, if you are confident using Windows, you will not have any difficulty getting comfortable with Linux.
I also left out various myths that arise almost every time when it comes to comparing the Linux and Windows platforms. Myths like those that Linux is difficult to set up, and Windows is an unstable and insecure OS. Both are incorrect, as is much else that is said and written on this topic. In general, the topic of myths about Windows and Linux is very interesting, but a separate material should be devoted to this.
The pros and cons that I have listed are actual disadvantages and advantages. This is what you really need to think about when deciding which OS to use. And I believe this information is quite enough for you to decide what will be best for you, in your particular situation.
Personally, I think the main disadvantage of MS Windows is its high price and the main advantage of Linux is its low cost. Everything else can be neglected.
In other words, if cost is not critical for you, use Windows. And if every ruble counts, then think about Linux.
Update - 2012
The article was written in 2009 and a lot has changed since then.
How to get Linux
High-speed Internet is confidently sweeping across the country, and this allows you to download Linux installation disk images from the official distribution sites. For example from www. Ubuntu.com, www. fedoraproject.org, www. mandriva.ru . Download the image, save it to laser disc or to a flash drive and that’s it.
Drivers
The situation with device drivers on the Linux platform has changed significantly, for the better. In most cases, all computer hardware works out of the box and there is no need to install anything. For example, connecting to the Internet via an ADSL modem is reduced to entering a username and password, but to connect via a UMTS/HSDPA USB modem you need to specify the country and operator in addition to the login and password cellular communications. No drivers!
An example from the most recent - under Ubuntu 12.04, to install the HP 1120 MFP, you just needed to connect to the Internet, then plug the printer cable into the USB connector of the computer. Ubuntu itself determined the model and downloaded a small plugin for the “boxed” driver. A couple of minutes and the device works.
Under Windows 7 SP1 Retail, it was necessary to download a driver of almost 300 MB in size. Manually run its installation. The installation failed in normal mode - it crashed with an error. After that, I had to install drivers through Device Manager. Just like that.
Graphical User Interface
While Microsoft continues to mark time, decorating the same start button, taskbar and tray, in Linux world new items have appeared - graphical shells Unity and Gnome Shell. It's both prettier and more convenient than Windows interface 7. Besides this, you can try KDE 4 which is also very beautiful and functionally good, although not easy. Today best distributions Linux, such as Ubuntu, Fedora, Mandriva, is perhaps more beautiful and convenient than Windows 7.
Technical support
Today it is required for Linux less often than three years ago. And there are more people who understand Linux. And there are also more materials on the Internet about how to do something under Linux. So this is no longer a particularly important factor in favor of Windows.
Summary
I think that once the pirates are completely shut down, it will be very difficult for Windows to maintain its leading market share. If everyone who currently uses Windows has to pay full price for it, many will switch to Linux. After all, there is no longer a fundamental difference between them, and if so, why pay more?
Update - 2015
The situation in 2015 is such that using some kind of Linux distribution instead of Windows is more than possible. For the application described in this article. That is, for home or office use. Of course, not all distributions are equally well suited for this. There are two that I think are the best choices - Ubuntu Desktop and Rosa Fresh Desktop.
Advantages of Rosa over Ubuntu:
- Full Russification straight out of the box. In Ubuntu, the Russian interface language must be added after installation. It's not difficult, but it's an extra step.
- Russian development company. Accordingly, Russian technical support service.
Advantages of Ubuntu over Rosa:
- Roughly speaking, it is better in everything except the above two points.
In addition to these two distributions, you can try Alt Linux (also a Russian distribution) and Fedora (Fedora). In the left panel (or below) on this page there are links to short reviews of these distributions.
Update - 2017
Conceptually, nothing has changed. Linux is cheaper, Windows has better device drivers.
There are no changes among Linux distributions either. The list of the best is the same:
- Ubuntu (current LTS release 16.04.3). Links to Ubuntu reviews in the left panel on this page.
- Rosa Fresh (current releases R8 and R9). Links to Rosa reviews are in the left panel on this page.
- Fedora (current LTS release of Fedora 26 Workstation). Links to Fedor's reviews in the left panel on this page.
Ivan Sukhov, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2017 .
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