Theres been a question I have seen on multiple occasions both on the “How do I explain Linux to a Windows user” end as well as the “What is Linux?” question. That got me thinking.. what is the best way to explain Linux to a normal Windows user who has never heard of Linux? Have you ever been using a laptop in a public place, or have someone over at your house, and you’re running Linux and someone asks you why it looks different? Do you take the easy way out and say “it’s Linux, it’s like Windows but different!” or do you actually explain what Linux is? Here are some ideas of getting the message across as easy and straightforward as possible.

Explaining Linux to a Windows user

Here are a few ideas you can put together to help you explain Linux:

• Every computer has an Operating System. Windows is an Operating System. So is Linux.
• Linux was written in the early nineties by a college student name Linus.
• Linux is not owned by any one person.
• Linux is free, unlike Windows. Most people pay the Windows fee when they buy the computer that comes “pre-installed” with Windows.
• It’s fun to use.
• You have complete control of all aspects of the operating system.
• It’s “look and feel” is completely customizable. You can make it look like Windows or you can make it look unique.
• You can’t use all of the same software applications that you use on Windows, but there are alternatives to windows programs.
• If your computers primary use is for playing popular computer games, hold off on installing Linux.
• Linux is secure and practically virus and spyware free.
• It can be a lot faster than Windows with the right setup and configurations.

How do you explain Linux to a Windows user?