If you are wondering what the difference between Linux and Windows is, this article is for you. Here, you’re going to learn the comparison between Linux and Windows. But before jumping into the differences, let’s first understand what Linux and Windows are.
What is Linux?
Linux is an open-source and free operating system built upon the Unix standards. It delivers a programming interface to its users and allows compatibility with user interfaces. The Linux operating system provides a graphical user interface that has essential software for daily use. You can use it on mobile phones, cameras, video recorders, computers, and ebook readers.
The Linux operating system performs tasks such as managing hardware resources, providing a user interface, and launching and handling applications. It has massive distributions and a vast community of developers to ensure Linux is readily available for most tasks.
Features of Linux include security, multi-user capability, multiprogramming, open-source, and flexibility.
What is Windows?
Windows is a licensed operating system whose source code can’t be accessed. This operating system is straightforward to use, even for those with little experience with computers. You can use Windows for personal or commercial purposes.
In 1985, Microsoft released the first version of Windows. The Windows 1.0 Operating system was based on a graphical user interface (GUI). Microsoft has since improved the Windows version without interfering with the first feel and look, giving it stability and reliability compared to other operating systems.
Windows offers features like symmetric multiprocessing, portability, integrated caching, and virtual memory.
What are the differences between Linux and Windows?
There have been arguments about the differences between Linux and Windows for many years. Let’s take a look at some of the key features that distinguish them from each other. Keep reading.
Users
Linux has three types of user accounts: Root, Service, and Regular users, while Windows has four types of users: Guest, Standard, Administrator, and Child.
Ease of use
Installing Linux is complicated, while the Windows operating system is straightforward to operate but takes more time to install.
Type of kernel used
While Linux uses a monolithic kernel that uses large running spaces and is very efficient, Windows uses a micro-kernel that uses less space but is less efficient.
Accessibility
You can access the Linux source code and customize it according to your needs. This accessibility allows the operating system bugs to be fixed quickly. However, developers can easily corrupt the operating system.
Windows only allow authorized members to access the source code.
Security
If you are a Windows user, you may have encountered security issues. Windows faces security issues because its operating system is primarily used, and due to this, spammers and hackers are always targeting it. Microsoft often provides security patches through its Windows Update service as part of its efforts to improve Windows security.
On the contrary, Linux is more secure as it is based on multi-user architecture, making it hard for hackers to break through it. Furthermore, Linux developers from around the world closely monitor its operations and solve any problems that may occur, and provide the necessary patches within a few hours.
Licensing
Linux GPL-licensed operating system allows software modification. You can also reuse the software in as many designs as you want, and you can also sell the modified software by making the code available.
On the other hand, a Microsoft license denies you access to source code; hence you cannot modify the software. You can only install operating systems based on the number of licenses you buy. For example, if you purchase 15 licenses, you can install applications on 15 computers only.
Support
Support for Linux is available via a large community of user forums, online search engines, and active websites. Windows also offer support via accessible websites and online media, and you can also opt for paid help.
Reliability
Windows can be sluggish at times. You have to re-install it after your computer system slows down. On the other hand, Linux offers a fast system that runs efficiently for a longer time. So it will be true to say Linux is more efficient than Windows.
Updates
You can manage your updates with Linux; you can install them whenever you want, and they are quick without requiring a reboot. Windows have inconvenient updates which require more time to install.
