Maybe you have a gaming desktop or a mid-range laptop that’s been running without issue – except now Windows 11 refuses to install. Should you shell out for a new machine just because Microsoft said so? Here’s an alternative you might not have seriously considered: installing Linux. It’s modern, fast, privacy-oriented, secure, and most importantly – free.
Why Bother With Linux?
If your computer still powers on and runs day-to-day tasks – emails, documents, web browsing, even streaming – it’s still a good computer. Don’t get rid of it just because of a software update. Linux, especially beginner-friendly versions like Ubuntu or Mint, is lightweight, private, and doesn’t nag you for subscriptions, accounts, or force ads into your Start Menu. And it doesn’t need the latest hardware to feel fast. Some key reasons people are switching:
- Safe and secure – no viruses, no antivirus needed!
- No cost for the OS or updates. Most software is also free
- Better performance on older systems – even on 10-15 year old computers!
- No forced upgrades or ads – and no “telemetry”, AI features, or spying
Isn’t Linux Hard to Use?
That was true… years ago. But things have changed. Modern Linux distributions look and feel a lot like Windows. You still have a desktop, start menu, and file explorer. You can install apps from an “App Store”, just like you would on a phone or Mac. And updates are automatic, secure, and generally don’t break things.
In fact, most users switching over only need a few hours to get used to it – and often never look back.
Everyday Tasks? No Problem.
Office work? Use free LibreOffice or Google Docs/Office 365 in your browser.
Web browsing? Firefox, Chrome, even Edge – all available.
Email? Thunderbird or use your usual provider via webmail.
Streaming? Netflix, YouTube, Spotify all work fine in browser.
How It Actually Feels
Let’s say you’re booting into Linux for the first time. You log in to a clean desktop. There’s a dock on the side (you can move it to the bottom if you want), and everything you need is one or two clicks away. You open Firefox, watch a YouTube video. No stuttering. Your fan doesn’t spin up like crazy.
Open a few tabs, write a document, send emails. It all just works – and feels faster than Windows did on the same machine. For older hardware, it’s like breathing new life into a machine that was otherwise ready for the scrap pile.
Even though the minimum RAM requirement for Windows 11 is paltry 4GB, you will be frustrated with less than 16GB as soon as you open just a few tabs. Linux is lightweight and will perform just fine.
But What About Software Compatibility?
That’s the only real sticking point for some people. Not everything runs natively on Linux. The specialised software for graphic design, engineering, video editing, and gaming will likely need workarounds or alternatives. In any case, if you use the computer as a professional, you can probably afford one that will run your apps!
If you rely heavily on Microsoft Office, there’s a small learning curve when switching to LibreOffice. It opens Word and Excel files, but complex formatting and formulas can sometimes break. That said:
- For personal use, LibreOffice works beautifully
- For collaborative work, use Google Docs/Sheets
- For edge cases, you can try “Wine” to run some Windows apps – emulator for Windows programs
And if your work requires Adobe Creative Cloud or other Windows-only apps, Linux might not be for you – at least not full-time.
What About Installing It?
You don’t have to be an IT wizard. In fact, if you’re in Brisbane, we can install it for you. But if you’re curious about doing it yourself:
- Download Ubuntu from ubuntu.com
- Create a bootable USB
- Boot from the USB and test it first (“Try Ubuntu”)
- Click install, follow the steps, and you’re done
We’ll be releasing a step-by-step guide soon to walk you through the process.
Final Thoughts
If your current PC works but just feels a bit sluggish – or if Windows 11 won’t install – it’s not game over. Linux might be the best thing you’ve never tried. You get speed, privacy, reliability, and control – all without spending a cent. And for many, it’s a chance to learn something new without risk.
It’s not for everyone. But if you’re curious, it’s never been easier to test. And if you want help, we’re just a message away.
