Windows 10 is dead.
Your PC isn't.
Microsoft has ended support for Windows 10. No more security updates, no more patches. But your hardware is perfectly fine — Linux can give your PC a second life. Fast, secure, completely free.
Why Switch to Linux?
Linux is what keeps millions of servers, phones, and supercomputers running. Here is why it is the best next step for your Windows 10 PC.
Free
No license fees, no subscriptions, no hidden costs. Download, install, and use it forever without paying a cent.
Secure by Design
Linux receives continuous security updates from a global community. No more worrying about an unpatched Windows 10 being a sitting duck for malware.
Runs on Old Hardware
That PC Microsoft says can't run Windows 11? Linux will fly on it. Many distros run smoothly on machines with 2 GB of RAM and a decade-old processor.
No Forced Updates
You decide when and what to update. No surprise reboots, no features removed overnight, no ads injected into your Start menu.
Familiar Feel
Modern Linux desktops look and work like what you are used to — taskbar, file manager, system tray, and all. The transition is smoother than you think.
Best Linux Distros for Windows Users
Hand-picked beginner-friendly distributions. Any of these will feel like home.
Linux Mint
A clean, easy desktop. Feels familiar to Windows users.
Zorin OS
Built to feel like Windows or macOS. Great for switchers.
Ubuntu
The most popular Linux distro. Easy, stable, and used everywhere.
Pop!_OS
Made by System76 for coders, gamers, and creators.
MX Linux
Light, simple, and fast. Runs well on old and new gear.
Common Concerns
Will my apps work? add
Most everyday apps have Linux versions or excellent alternatives. Firefox, Chrome, VLC, LibreOffice, Spotify, Steam, and thousands more run natively on Linux.
For Windows-only apps, compatibility layers like Wine and Proton (for games) can often run them seamlessly. Microsoft Office can be accessed through the web version, and LibreOffice handles most documents with full compatibility. See the App Finder for specific alternatives.
Is it hard to install? add
Modern Linux installers are as easy as installing Windows — sometimes easier. Most beginner-friendly distros walk you through the process with a graphical installer. The whole thing typically takes under 20 minutes.
You will need a USB flash drive (8 GB or larger) and a free tool like Ventoy or Rufus to create the bootable drive.
Can I try it without installing? add
Yes. Almost every Linux distribution can be booted from a USB drive as a "live session." You can test-drive the full desktop, connect to Wi-Fi, browse the web, and check hardware compatibility — all without touching your hard drive.
When you are ready, you can install from the same USB drive. Or just shut down and go back to Windows.
What about gaming? add
Linux gaming has come a long way. Steam runs natively and includes Proton, a compatibility layer that lets you play thousands of Windows games. Many AAA titles work out of the box.
Check ProtonDB to see how well your favorite games run on Linux.
Can I keep Windows alongside Linux? add
Yes. Most Linux installers offer a "dual boot" option that shrinks your Windows partition and installs Linux next to it. Every time you start your computer, you choose which OS to boot into.
This is a great way to transition gradually — use Linux as your daily driver while keeping Windows as a fallback.
Not sure which distro is right for you?
Answer a few quick questions and we'll recommend the best Linux distribution for your hardware, experience level, and needs.