If you are a long time user of Windows and are thinking about switching to Linux, here is a list of some pros and cons of switching from Windows to Linux for you to consider.
The Pros
The most prominent benefit of using Linux in my opinion is that Linux is free. Most Linux distros and applications are free to use (unless you choose a commercial option). Moreover, it is also free from patents and other restrictions that determine how everything can be used. Apart from being free in cost, another kind of freedom that you have when using Linux is the open-source nature of all the applications. In other words, any developer or user can see and modify the code if they think their decision is good. A world of custom tweaks and applications is totally in your control.
Another benefit of Linux is its security and stability. Linux is much more secure and stable than Windows. That is the reason why it has been dominating the server market for years. When using Linux, you do not have to worry about viruses and malwares and other security threats as much as with Windows. Of course, no system is absolutely perfect but in comparison with Windows, Linux is the clear winner in term of security and stability.
Last but not least using Linux will help you gain a tremendous knowledge about computers and programming since when you use Linux, you will have to tinker and explore around.
The Cons
Linux is a great operating system but you will have to sacrifice several things if you decide to switch to Linux.
The first thing it will cost you is a lot of time. It’s not easy for a beginner to know everything about Linux the first time. That’s why although Linux is totally free; it will take time for you to be accustomed to this new operating system and the new applications.
Another thing to consider is that some open source applications are not as good as their equivalences in Windows. For example, GIMP doesn’t have all the cool features that Photoshop offers; The libre and Open office apps are not as good as Microsoft office. Besides, even if you are satisfied with your open-source applications, it will take time for you to learn all the tricks with the new applications. Some people will argue that you can use Wine to run Windows applications in Linux; however you won’t have the same native feel and experience with applications running on Wine. And if you are a gamer, totally switching to Linux will be very hard for you since you will have to give up most, if not all, of your favorite video games.
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