Diogo Ribeiro, an author, recently shared his experience of switching from Windows 11 to Linux, stating that the move was one of the best decisions he made in 2025. After a year of using Linux on his laptop, he reflects on the transition, which he says has been rewarding and without regrets. Linux, an open-source operating system, is seeing a resurgence as users look for alternatives to Microsoft’s Windows 11, especially in light of growing concerns about data privacy and the dominance of big tech companies. While Linux isn’t a perfect fit for everyone—particularly creative professionals who rely on specific Windows-based tools—it has grown significantly in compatibility and usability over recent years. Ribeiro’s decision to switch was influenced by his experience managing multiple Windows 11 machines and the increasing number of privacy-related prompts he encountered. He felt like he was renting a terminal rather than using a personal device. With the rise of digital sovereignty—where users seek control over their data and technology—Linux’s open-source nature seemed like a more concrete and independent choice than relying on proprietary systems from major tech firms. His journey with Linux wasn’t without challenges. He had to navigate community forums and experiment with different distributions, or versions, of Linux. Many users recommend Linux Mint or Zorin OS for a smoother transition, as they closely resemble Windows in appearance and ease of use. For more advanced users, distributions like Arch Linux and its derivatives, such as CachyOS, offer greater flexibility and performance, though they require more technical know-how. The gaming landscape on Linux has also improved significantly, thanks in part to Valve’s Proton project, which allows many Windows-based games to run on Linux without native ports. While some games, like Battlefield 6 and Fortnite, remain incompatible due to their reliance on specific anti-cheat software, others, such as Risk of Rain 2, Pillars of Eternity, and Ball X Pit, run smoothly through Steam. Hardware support has also advanced, with AMD offering strong drivers and even Nvidia beginning to improve its compatibility with Linux. Initiatives like the Open Gaming Collective are further pushing for better support of gaming accessories and software on Linux platforms. Linux also offers a high degree of customization, allowing users to choose from various desktop environments like GNOME or KDE Plasma. These environments let users tailor their system’s look and feel extensively, from window themes to application launchers. For those willing to invest time and effort, Linux can offer a more personalized and empowering computing experience, free from the constraints of proprietary operating systems.