One Year, One Operating System
In January 2025, I woke up to an overcast sky and a decision that would redefine my relationship with my computer: delete Windows and commit to Linux. The Ubuntu installer warned that the process would wipe the entire hard drive, removing Windows 10 and all its familiar quirks and files. I pressed forward anyway, driven by curiosity, a desire for control, and a hope that a year with Linux might restore some sense of speed and simplicity to my daily workflow.
Why I Chose Linux in the First Place
Like many users, I’d grown weary of the constant updates, minor annoyances, and occasional instability of Windows. The prospect of a leaner, more customizable system appealed to me. Linux offered transparency, a vibrant community, and tools that could be tailored to almost any task. I started with an Ubuntu-based setup, drawn by long-standing support, a straightforward installation process, and a large ecosystem of software that could cover both creative and technical needs.
The Moment of Truth: Wiping the Drive
Running through backups and file transfers, I felt a mix of fear and excitement. The Ubuntu installer presented a stark warning: the operation would permanently erase Windows 10 and everything on the drive. There was no turning back. When the process completed, I rebooted into a fresh Linux desktop and faced a blank canvas where Windows once lived. It was unsettling at first—no familiar Start menu, no preinstalled apps, and a learning curve that demanded patience.
What I Learned in the First Month
Transitioning to Linux was less about technology and more about mindset. I discovered a few practical truths that eased the adjustment:
– Backups are non-negotiable. Even with a clean slate, I created periodic backups to cloud storage and external drives to protect against mishaps.
– Package managers matter. Ubuntu’s Software Centre and the terminal allow swift installation of essential tools, from browsers to development environments.
– Community is king. Forums, Discord channels, and Stack Exchange sites became my fastest route to solutions when a setting or driver wouldn’t cooperate.
– Privacy improves with control. A Linux setup enabled me to fine-tune permissions, defaults, and telemetry to a degree I hadn’t achieved on Windows.
Productivity, Games, and Creative Work
Contrary to the stereotype of Linux being only for developers, my year included a mix of tasks: coding projects, document editing, photo editing, and a handful of games. The trick was choosing the right distribution and tools. Ubuntu offered stability and broad compatibility; for certain games, Proton and Steam Deck compatibility opened doors that Windows typically held. For creative work, alternatives such as GIMP, Krita, and Inkscape filled gaps where I’d relied on Windows-only apps in the past. It wasn’t always seamless, but progress came with each new workaround.
Reflections: Do I Miss Windows?
As the months passed, the absence of Windows did not feel like a loss. There were moments of frustration—missing some familiar software or a feature only available on Windows—but these were outweighed by the gains: faster boot times on a lighter system, fewer disruptions, and a heightened sense of ownership over my software. I learned to adapt workflows, to embrace open-source alternatives, and to accept occasional incompatibilities as a cost of a more customizable environment.
Practical Takeaways for Anyone Considering a Move
- Back up thoroughly before making any major OS changes. A restore point is not a guarantee in the wild depths of OS migration.
- Evaluate the ecosystem. If you rely on specific software, check for Linux equivalents or compatibility layers like Proton for games.
- Start with a user-friendly distribution. Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Pop!_OS can smooth the learning curve.
- Be ready to learn. Documentation, forums, and community-driven tutorials are invaluable when you hit snags.
In the end, a year on Linux was less about abandoning Windows and more about exploring an environment that offered control, speed, and a different philosophy about software. If you’re curious about taking the plunge, plan for a gradual transition, back up relentlessly, and let curiosity guide the way.
