Transition from Windows to Linux: A beginner's guide

March 21, 2025

In October 2025, Microsoft ends the support of Windows 10. This means all users of this operating system who have not migrated to Windows 11 will have to do this by October 2025 to receive security updates and have their software compatible. However, not all users will be able to accomplish the upgrade since their PCs must meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements.

The transition from Windows to Linux can be a game-changing move, providing improved security, greater customization, and enhanced performance. Whether you're drawn to open-source software, looking for more control over your operating system, or aiming to cut costs, switching to Linux is a rewarding choice. Moreover, growing concerns about privacy and data security have encouraged many users to make the shift. This beginner guide will walk you through each stage of the migration process, making the transition process smooth and successful.

Main reasons to migrate from Windows to Linux

                            
                                    Open source. Access to the source 
                                    code fosters transparency and improvements. Users 
                                    can modify and contribute their updates to the 
                                    collaborating ecosystem of the Linux community.
                                

                                    Security. If compared to Windows, 
                                    Linux offers a higher level of security, taking 
                                    into account Microsoft's practices in collecting 
                                    telemetry data, encompassing details about usage 
                                    habits, system performance, and even specific 
                                    activities. Although this data collection is intended 
                                    to enhance user experience and optimize system 
                                    functionality, it also raises privacy concerns.
                                

                                    Customization. Linux is very 
                                    flexible and allows users to tailor the desktop 
                                    experience to specific needs and preferences.
                                

                                    Variety of distributions. Various 
                                    distributions of Linux cater to different needs, 
                                    from user-friendly interfaces to specialized 
                                    environments for developers, designers, and gamers.
                                

                                    Cost efficiency. Most Linux 
                                    distributions are free, removing the need for 
                                    costly licenses.
                                

                                    Performance. Linux is often 
                                    more efficient on older hardware, prolonging 
                                    your computer's lifespan. Its optimized 
                                    resource management enables smooth performance, 
                                    even on low-spec systems.
                                

                        

How to start

Data backup

Data loss is always a risk when migrating to a new operating system. Protect your data by following these steps:

External Backup: Save important files to an external hard drive or cloud storage services.
System Image: Create a full system image of your Windows installation using tools like Macrium Reflect or Acronis True Image.
Verify Backups: Double-check that all essential files are accessible from your backup location to ensure nothing is missing.

Choosing a Linux Distribution

Linux offers a wide range of distributions (distros). Popular beginner-friendly options include:

Ubuntu — Great for beginners, widely supported with a strong community.
Linux Mint — Windows-like interface, user-friendly, and stable.
Fedora — Cutting-edge software, great for learning Linux fundamentals.
Zorin OS — Designed for Windows users, easy to adapt to.
Pop!_OS — Optimized for productivity and performance.

Linux OS installation

To migrate to Linux without completely leaving Windows behind, you can set up a dual boot system. This setup lets you select either Windows or Linux at startup. Start by backing up essential data, then partition your hard drive to reserve space for Linux. The installation process will guide you in setting up Linux alongside Windows. This approach provides the flexibility to explore Linux while retaining access to Windows when needed.

If you would like to leave Windows completely behind and install Linux, you will need to create a bootable USB:

Download the ISO file of your chosen distro from its official website.
Use Rufus (Windows) or Balena Etcher to create a bootable USB.
Restart your computer and boot from the USB by selecting it in the BIOS/UEFI boot menu.

Learn basic terminal commands

ls — List files in a directory
cd — Change directory
cp — Copy files
mv — Move files
rm — Delete files
sudo — Run commands with administrator privileges

Make the list of alternative software you will need

Windows	Linux
MS Office	Libre Office
Photoshop	GIMP
Notepad ++	VS Code
Windows Media Player	VLC
Microsoft Edge	Firefox, Chromium, Vivaldi
WinRAR	PeaZip, 7-Zip
Microsoft Outlook	Thunderbird, Evolution
File Explorer	Nautilus, Dolphin, Thunar

Keep your system updated

Updating Linux is straightforward:

Ubuntu/Mint: sudo apt update & sudo apt upgrade
Fedora: sudo dnf update
Arch: sudo pacman -Syu

Issues troubleshooting

Linux has a vast and helpful community. If you run into issues, you can:

Search forums like Ask Ubuntu, Linux Mint Forums, or Fedora Forum.
Use the man command (e.g., man ls) for documentation.
Join Reddit communities like r/linux4noobs.

Conclusion

Switching from Windows to Linux unlocks a range of opportunities, providing a secure, customizable, and efficient operating system tailored to your needs. By choosing the right distribution, preparing thoroughly, and utilizing key tools and software alternatives, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable transition. Furthermore, adopting Linux can greatly improve privacy and security by minimizing dependence on data-collecting systems like Windows.