Why I Switched from Windows 11 to Linux

The decision to migrate from Windows 11 to Linux is driven by a combination of privacy concerns, performance issues, and a desire for greater control over the computing experience. The primary catalyst for this switch is the introduction of features like Windows Recall, which continuously records user activity, raising significant privacy alarms. Additionally, the mandatory requirement for a Microsoft Account during the initial setup process is viewed as an intrusion.

Performance-wise, the article highlights that Windows 11 often suffers from sluggishness due to numerous background processes and telemetry services. In contrast, Linux distributions are praised for their lightweight nature, offering faster boot times and snappier responsiveness. The user experience on Windows is further detracted by the presence of advertisements and 'suggested' content within the Start Menu and system interfaces, a practice absent in Linux environments. Linux offers superior customization, allowing users to completely overhaul the desktop environment to suit their workflow, rather than being restricted to the rigid structure of Windows. The author concludes by addressing the misconception that Linux is difficult to learn, pointing out that modern distributions provide intuitive, user-friendly interfaces that make the transition smooth for most users.

Privacy stands as the foremost reason for abandoning Windows 11. The operating system has introduced features that actively monitor user behavior, most notably Windows Recall. This feature takes periodic screenshots of the desktop to create a searchable history of activity. While Microsoft claims this data remains local, the very concept of constant surveillance is alarming to many users.

Beyond specific features, the operating system's architecture is built around data collection. Telemetry services run in the background, sending usage statistics and diagnostic data back to Microsoft. This is compounded by the enforced integration of a Microsoft Account. Users are no longer allowed to create a local offline account during the standard installation process, effectively tying their hardware identity to their online profile. This aggregation of personal data creates a detailed digital footprint that the author finds unacceptable.

System performance is a frequent point of contention. Windows 11 is described as feeling bloated and slow, even on modern hardware. This sluggishness is attributed to the sheer number of background services, telemetry tasks, and pre-installed applications that consume system resources. These processes often run without the user's explicit consent or knowledge, impacting battery life and overall system responsiveness.

In contrast, Linux distributions are highlighted for their efficiency. Even the most feature-rich versions of Linux are significantly lighter than a standard Windows installation. This results in tangible benefits for the user:

• Faster boot times and shutdown sequences.
• More available RAM and CPU cycles for user applications.
• Snappier window management and file operations.

By switching, users reclaim the full potential of their hardware, free from the overhead of unnecessary system processes.

The user experience on Windows 11 has evolved to include commercial elements that many find intrusive. The Start Menu, for instance, displays advertisements for third-party apps and 'suggested' content. Furthermore, the operating system pushes services like Microsoft 365 and OneDrive, creating a cluttered environment focused on upselling rather than pure productivity.

Linux offers a fundamentally different approach. The open-source nature of the OS allows for complete customization. Users are not locked into a single interface; they can choose from a variety of Desktop Environments (DEs) such as GNOME, KDE Plasma, or XFCE. This allows for a tailored workflow, whether the user prefers a layout similar to Windows, macOS, or something entirely unique. The ability to strip away unnecessary elements and build a system that serves specific needs is a major advantage.

A common deterrent for switching operating systems is the fear of a steep learning curve. The article argues that this fear is largely outdated. Modern Linux distributions, such as Linux Mint or Pop!_OS, are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They feature graphical installers and software stores that function similarly to app stores on smartphones, making software installation straightforward.

Regarding software compatibility, most common applications have viable alternatives on Linux. For web browsing, Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are available. Office tasks are handled by LibreOffice or Google Workspace. Even gaming, once a stronghold for Windows, has improved dramatically thanks to tools like Steam's Proton, which allows many Windows games to run seamlessly on Linux. While specialized professional software may require workarounds, the vast majority of daily computing needs are met comfortably.