I've used Windows for decades, but I tried Linux to see if it's truly 'easy' now - and one thing surprised me

2026-02-19 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Software Development & Engineering, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure · Depth: Intermediate, medium

Summary

An editorial analyst recounts their experience attempting to switch from Windows to Linux, challenging the notion that modern Linux distributions are "easy" to install and use. Despite claims from ZDNET's Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols that Linux is as easy as Windows, the author encountered significant hurdles, particularly with hardware compatibility and driver installation. The process involved trying three different distributions, including Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and Zorin OS 18, before successfully installing Fedora 43 on Intel-based Microsoft Surface devices. Key difficulties included getting webcams and other proprietary hardware components to function, often requiring extensive use of terminal commands and consultation with Google's Gemini chatbot. While daily use proved manageable for common productivity apps, the overall migration was far from frictionless, especially for non-standard hardware.

Key takeaway

For IT Professionals considering Linux as an alternative for older Windows PCs, be prepared for a significant learning curve, especially with non-standard hardware like Microsoft Surface devices or ARM-based systems. You should allocate substantial time for troubleshooting, including extensive use of terminal commands, and research specific Linux kernel support for your hardware. Do not recommend this path for tech-challenged users, as the experience is not yet frictionless.

Key insights

Migrating to Linux from Windows remains challenging, especially with non-standard or ARM-based hardware.

Principles

• x86-based hardware offers higher Linux compatibility.
• Proprietary hardware often requires custom kernel support.
• Terminal commands are frequently necessary for troubleshooting.

Method

The author's method involved selecting x86-based hardware, attempting multiple Linux distributions, and using a chatbot for troubleshooting, often resorting to terminal commands for driver and hardware configuration.

In practice

• Prioritize x86-based hardware for Linux installs.
• Expect to use terminal commands for setup.
• Consider Fedora 43 for Surface device compatibility.

Topics

• Linux Migration
• Hardware Compatibility
• Linux Distributions
• Terminal Commands
• User Experience

Code references

• linux-surface/linux-surface
• boltgolt/howdy

Best for: Software Engineer, IT Professional

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.