Windows vs. Linux: Know the Difference

By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023

Windows is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft; Linux is an open-source kernel forming the basis for a variety of operating systems.

Windows vs. Linux

Key Differences

Windows, developed by Microsoft, is a proprietary operating system with a user-friendly interface, widely used on personal computers and servers. Linux, conversely, is an open-source operating system kernel that can be modified and distributed by anyone, powering a multitude of distributions.

Nov 20, 2023

Windows provides a graphical user interface (GUI) known for its ease of use, making it popular among non-technical users. Linux is celebrated for its security and flexibility, used extensively in servers and supercomputers.

Nov 20, 2023

Windows has a significant market share in the desktop market, while Linux dominates the server market and is the foundation for Android on mobile devices.

Nov 20, 2023

Both Windows and Linux offer distinct ecosystems of applications, with Windows boasting a vast library of commercial software and Linux offering a plethora of free and open-source alternatives.

Nov 20, 2023

Comparison Chart

Developer

Microsoft Corporation.

Community-driven, led by Linus Torvalds.

Nov 20, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Licensing

Proprietary software with paid licenses.

Open-source, with free and paid distributions.

Nov 20, 2023

User Interface

Consistent GUI across versions.

Multiple GUIs depending on the distribution.

Nov 20, 2023

System Updates

Controlled by Microsoft, with scheduled updates.

User-managed, with rolling updates in some distributions.

Nov 20, 2023

Default File System

NTFS (New Technology File System).

Ext4, among others, varies by distribution.

Nov 20, 2023

Windows and Linux Definitions

Windows

Windows offers built-in compatibility with many hardware devices through Plug and Play.

Connecting a new printer to his Windows PC was a seamless process.

Nov 10, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Linux

Linux distributions often come with powerful command-line interfaces for advanced control.

He uses the command line in Linux to automate his software builds.

Nov 10, 2023

Windows

Windows provides support for a wide range of software, particularly in gaming and productivity.

She runs professional graphic design software exclusively available for Windows.

Nov 10, 2023

Linux

Linux is a versatile kernel that serves as the foundation for a variety of free operating systems.

She chose a Linux-based OS for its reliability and security features.

Nov 10, 2023

Windows

Windows is known for its regular feature updates and security patches.

After the recent Windows security patch, her computer's performance improved.

Nov 10, 2023

Linux

Linux is highly customizable, allowing users to modify the system to fit their needs.

The developer customized his Linux environment for optimal programming efficiency.

Nov 10, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Windows

Windows is a commercial operating system with a focus on user-friendly experiences.

He installed the latest Windows update to keep his computer secure.

Nov 10, 2023

Linux

Linux supports a community-based development approach, with many contributors.

Volunteers from around the world contributed to the latest Linux kernel update.

Nov 10, 2023

Windows

Windows has a dedicated customer support service provided by Microsoft.

When he encountered an issue, he used Windows' customer support to resolve it.

Nov 10, 2023

Linux

Linux is widely regarded for its stability and security in server environments.

Their company's servers run on Linux due to its excellent uptime record.

Nov 10, 2023

Windows

Plural of window

Nov 09, 2023

Linux

(software) Any unix-like operating system that uses the Linux kernel.

Nov 09, 2023

Linux

An open-source version of the UNIX operating system

Nov 09, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Is Windows more user-friendly than Linux?

Generally, yes, due to its familiar interface and support.

Nov 20, 2023

Can I use Windows software on Linux?

Not natively, but there are compatibility layers like Wine.

Nov 20, 2023

Which is more secure, Windows or Linux?

Linux typically has a reputation for being more secure.

Nov 20, 2023

Do I have to pay for Windows?

Yes, although it often comes pre-installed on new PCs.

Nov 20, 2023

Is Linux really free?

Yes, most Linux distributions are free to download and use.

Nov 20, 2023

What is Windows?

Windows is a series of proprietary operating systems by Microsoft.

Nov 20, 2023

Can I run a Linux OS on a Windows machine?

Yes, through dual-booting or a virtual machine.

Nov 20, 2023

What is Linux?

Linux is an open-source kernel used in various operating systems.

Nov 20, 2023

Can Linux be as visually appealing as Windows?

Yes, with GUIs like GNOME and KDE Plasma.

Nov 20, 2023

Which OS should I use for gaming?

Windows, due to better support from game developers.

Nov 20, 2023

What is the main difference between Windows and Linux?

Windows is a commercial operating system developed by Microsoft, while Linux is an open-source operating system developed by the community.

Nov 20, 2023

Is Windows or Linux better for servers?

Linux is often preferred for servers due to its stability and security.

Nov 20, 2023

How often do Windows and Linux get updated?

Windows has a regular update schedule; Linux updates vary by distribution.

Nov 20, 2023

Can I get customer support for Linux?

Community support is available, and paid support for commercial distributions.

Nov 20, 2023

Can I run Windows software on Linux?

Not natively, but there are tools like Wine that can run some Windows software on Linux.

Nov 20, 2023

What are the system requirements for Windows and Linux?

Windows generally requires more resources; Linux can run on lower-end hardware.

Nov 20, 2023

Why do most businesses use Windows over Linux?

Windows is more prevalent in business due to its widespread compatibility with various software, ease of use, and comprehensive support from Microsoft.

Nov 20, 2023

Is Linux more secure than Windows?

Linux is often considered more secure due to its open-source nature and less frequent targeting by malware, but security also depends on user practices.

Nov 20, 2023

Can I use Linux for free?

Yes, most Linux distributions are free to download, use, and modify.

Nov 20, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website

HTML

Link to share via messenger

Windows vs. Linux

Knowledge vs. Understanding

Windows vs. Linux

About Author

Written by

Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Trending Comparisons

Hydroscopic vs. Hygroscopic

Hydroscopic vs. Hygroscopic

February 14, 2024

Hydroscopic is a common misnomer, often incorrectly used in place of hygroscopic. Hygroscopic refers to substances that absorb moisture from the air.

Pulley vs. Sheave

Pulley vs. Sheave

April 4, 2024

A pulley is a wheel on an axle designed to support movement and change of direction of a taut cable, while a sheave is the wheel part of a pulley system that specifically interacts with the cable.

Natural Rubber vs. Synthetic Rubber

Natural Rubber vs. Synthetic Rubber

March 8, 2024

Natural rubber, derived from the latex of rubber trees, offers elasticity and resistance to abrasion, while synthetic rubber, produced from petroleum byproducts, provides enhanced chemical and temperature resistance.

Polo Ralph Lauren vs. US Polo Assn

Polo Ralph Lauren vs. US Polo Assn

January 21, 2024

Polo Ralph Lauren is a premium fashion brand known for luxury clothing, while US Polo Assn is the official brand of the United States Polo Association, focused on affordable casual wear.

Stuck vs. Stock

Stuck vs. Stock

June 18, 2024

"Stuck" refers to being unable to move or progress, while "stock" primarily denotes inventory or shares in a company, highlighting distinct usage contexts.

Inox vs. Stainless Steel

Inox vs. Stainless Steel

January 10, 2024

Inox is a synonym for stainless steel, used mainly in Europe, while stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy containing chromium.

Coke vs. Pepsi

January 12, 2024

Coke and Pepsi are iconic cola beverages with distinct flavors; Coke has a sharper, vanilla-tinged taste, while Pepsi is sweeter with a citrusy flavor.

Broadsheet vs. Tabloid

Broadsheet vs. Tabloid

November 2, 2024

Broadsheet is a large-format newspaper focusing on serious content; Tabloid is a smaller, sensational news-focused paper.

Guilty vs. Liable

Guilty vs. Liable

January 7, 2024

Being guilty implies responsibility for committing a crime or wrongdoing, while being liable denotes legal responsibility or obligation, often in a civil context.

Pycharm Community vs. Pycharm Pro

Pycharm Community vs. Pycharm Pro

February 4, 2024

PyCharm Community is a free, open-source IDE for Python development, while PyCharm Pro is a paid version with additional advanced features like web development support and database tools.

Catholic Bible vs. NIV Bible

Catholic Bible vs. NIV Bible

February 11, 2024

The Catholic Bible includes additional books in the Old Testament not found in the NIV Bible; the NIV is a modern English translation.

Ammonium Sulfate vs. Urea

Ammonium Sulfate vs. Urea

December 25, 2023

Ammonium Sulfate is an inorganic salt used as a fertilizer, while Urea is an organic compound used in agriculture and industry.

TPU vs. PU

April 26, 2024

TPU is a type of thermoplastic elastomer with high elasticity and durability, while PU, or polyurethane, is versatile with varying hardness and used in multiple applications.

.380 vs. .38 Special

.380 vs. .38 Special

April 20, 2024

The .380 is a short-range pistol cartridge with less recoil, while the .38 Special is a longer, more powerful revolver cartridge suitable for diverse uses.

Single User Operating System vs. Multi User Operating System

Single User Operating System vs. Multi User Operating System

January 24, 2024

A Single User Operating System supports one user at a time, whereas a Multi User Operating System allows multiple users to operate simultaneously.

Garbanzo Beans vs. Cannellini Beans

Garbanzo Beans vs. Cannellini Beans

December 25, 2023

Garbanzo beans are round, beige legumes with a nutty taste, while cannellini beans are larger, white kidney beans with a milder flavor.

Department vs. Division

Department vs. Division

February 22, 2024

A department is a specialized unit within an organization focusing on a specific function or task, while a division is a larger segment of a company, often based on product lines, customer types, or geographical areas.

Ivory vs. Linen

Ivory vs. Linen

March 6, 2024

Ivory refers to a shade of white with a slight yellowish or creamy hue, often associated with the material from elephant tusks, while linen is a textile made from flax fibers, known for its durability, coolness, and breathability.

Double Room vs. Twin Room

Double Room vs. Twin Room

October 16, 2024

A double room features one large bed for two people, focusing on couples or close pairs, while a twin room has two separate single beds, catering to friends or colleagues.

HAWB vs. MAWB

November 2, 2024

HAWB (House Air Waybill) is issued by freight forwarders for individual shipments, while MAWB (Master Air Waybill) is issued by airlines for multiple shipments consolidated by those forwarders.

Grand Opening vs. Soft Opening

Grand Opening vs. Soft Opening

December 25, 2023

A Grand Opening is a highly publicized and celebratory launch of a business or venue, while a Soft Opening is a more subdued trial opening, often with limited services or a smaller audience.

Gorilla Glass vs. Panda Glass

Gorilla Glass vs. Panda Glass

January 5, 2024

Gorilla Glass is a highly durable, scratch-resistant glass used in electronic devices, while Panda Glass is a similar protective glass known for its high transparency and toughness.

Conflict vs. Dispute

Conflict vs. Dispute

December 25, 2023

Conflict is a serious disagreement or argument, often a prolonged one; a dispute is a disagreement or argument, but typically less severe and often more focused on a specific issue.

NM3 vs. M3

April 19, 2024

NM3 measures gas volume under Normal conditions (0°C and 1.01325 bar), while M3 measures volume under the conditions at which it is measured, without standard adjustment.

Featured Comparisons

Coyote vs. Jackal

Coyote vs. Jackal

Fate vs. Destiny

Fate vs. Destiny

Helicopter vs. Chopper

Helicopter vs. Chopper

Cuddle vs. Snuggle

Cuddle vs. Snuggle

Hard Copy vs. Soft Copy

Hard Copy vs. Soft Copy