Linux vs Windows: What’s the difference?

Linux vs Windows: Regarding operating systems, we have iOS and Android for cellular devices, and for PC there are many possibilities. We have heard about the two leading operating systems in the world right now, Windows and Linux. While they have their differences both are on the leading boards for a reason. They are used for the various assets that they offer. Today, we’ll be comparing and studying each of their features and characteristics and help you rule out which operating system might be good for you and which one is preferable for you to be using.

Also Read: Is Windows Defender Good Enough For your PC?

Linux

Linux is a family of various open-source Unix-like operating systems. It was first released on September 17th, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Just like any other operating system, Linux with no exception also creates a bridge between the software of the computer and the hardware. The Linux operating system consists of several different pieces. The various pieces are discussed below.

• Bootloader: The software integration that helps your computer boot up.
• Kernel: The kernel is the core of the system that manages the CPU memory and various peripheral devices. This piece as a whole is known as “Linux”.
• Init System: It’s the sub-system that bootstraps the user space and also has the task to control the daemons. Once the initial booting is processed after the initial booting is handed by the bootloader.
• Daemons: All the background processes that process as soon as the desktop starts up.
• Graphical Server: The sub-system that displays the graphics on your monitor.
• Desktop Environment: The part that involves the interaction of the user with the system. Also involves various built-in functions such as file managers, web browsers, and other configuration settings.
• Applications: Just like any other operating system, Linux also offers a varied variety of apps that are compatible with the system.

With that, we have a basic introduction to Linux. Let’s now look at the Windows Operating System.

Windows

Windows is a group of several exclusive graphical operating systems that are developed and marketed by Microsoft. It was initially released on 10th November 1983. Windows is a very versatile operating system that is widely used for various purposes. It can be used for both professional and home purposes. Windows also offer various amount of features and have provided constant updates over the years. The very recent one was Windows 11 released on 5th October 2021. The various components for Windows are as follows:

• Configuration and Maintenance
• User Interface
• File Systems
• Services
• DirectX
• Applications and Utilities
• Networking
• Kernel
• NET Framework
• Core Components
• File Systems
• Scripting Command Line
• Security
• APIs
• Deprecated components and apps

As we have had a general idea about both operating systems, let’s now compare them to rule out which one’s the best.

So Which One’s Better?

Now there are various factors to compare, let’s compare them and rule out the conclusion on which one is better.

Speed

Based on operating speed, there is no doubt that Linux wins this because of the ultra-high speed basis it works on and how efficient it is meanwhile, windows 10 has a reputation of getting slower and slower gradually with time.

Compatibility

Based on the compatibility settings, windows wins this one as Windows is capable to function and has things run on it without any issues whatsoever. Besides it also fulfils any requirements projected by any application or software.

Security

Linux provides better security than Microsoft in terms of data handling but Windows has been trying to catch up real soon with the newer versions of the Microsoft Defender being introduced.

Costs

Linux is free to install and operate for everyone whereas, Windows is not free to use or install.

With such differences, there are many more such as Linux is an open-source operating system whereas Windows isn’t. Linus’s peripherals such as Hard Drives and other storage sources are considered file locations whereas Windows has various components designated for it.

Conclusion – Linux vs Windows

So as we have discussed the various comparing factors for both operating systems we can now rule out which one is the better operating system. Although frankly speaking, no OS is better than the other, it all depends upon the user’s needs and requirements. However, if we are to talk about personal opinion, I would rather opt for Windows over Linux. As we have seen how Linux has better points than Windows, but it does lack one thing and that is compatibility with all types of software, programs, and applications. If you are more business-oriented, it is preferred for you to have Linux as it does provide more efficiency and speed. However, if you can work with moderate speeds but work with way more things than Linux would, Windows is preferred. Please rethink and research any computer-related issues before ruling out your decision. Hope this was able to solve all of your queries and questions regarding the operating systems.