Linux vs. Windows: The Major Difference Between Linux and Windows

When it comes to choosing an operating system, a comparison of Linux vs. Windows is common. Both operating systems have their unique features, capabilities, and advantages. But before a definitive choice can be made, you must evaluate every difference between Linux and Windows. To understand the key difference between Linux and Windows, let’s see a brief introduction to both operating systems.

Microsoft released Windows in 1985. Windows has a large global user base and dominates the operating system industry. A major difference between Linux and Windows is that Windows has a graphical user interface, and it remains unique with every update. Most commercial systems of present times run on the Windows operating system. 

What is the Linux Operating System?

Linux is an open-source operating system launched in the 1990s. It is based on UNIX and enables users to modify the existing code to produce different versions of the OS. If you compare Linux vs. Windows, you will realize that Linux is a topic choice for setting up servers. But it can also be used in mobile phones, desktops, eBook readers, and more for the common public. 

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Windows Architecture

Windows architecture includes two layers: user mode and kernel mode. The user mode includes integral subsystems and environment subsystems. The kernel mode provides complete access to computer and hardware system resources. 

Linux Architecture

If you compare Linux vs. Windows, you will realize that the Linux architecture contains two layers: user space and kernel space. The two layers have four components, i.e., hardware, kernel, system call interface or shell, and user applications or utilities. 

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Linux vs. Windows Comparison

In this section, we will discuss the differences between Linux and Windows by considering several parameters such as developer, source model, platforms and more.

Linux vs. Windows Comparison: Important Factors

Want to know in detail about the difference between Linux and Windows? Let us compare Linux vs. Windows on the basis of the following factors:

Linux vs. Windows: Price and Licensing

It is crucial to compare Linux and Windows in terms of pricing and licensing to make the right choice. A prominent difference between Linux and Windows is that Linux is free and open-source. You will also come across paid versions of Linux in the market that are moderately priced. Linux holds the GNU Public License that enables users to modify, re-use, and sell their modified versions. 

A major difference between Linux and Windows is that Windows has a price ranging from $70 to $200 for the standard versions. It comes with Microsoft License that denies users access to the source code. 

Linux vs. Windows: Command Line

If you compare Linux and. Windows, you will find differences in terms of command line usage. In the Linux OS, the command line is a powerful and handy tool for administration and daily operations. 

On the other hand, Windows “cmd” command is useful for opening a command line. A significant difference between Linux and Windows is that the Windows command line can be used to perform basic operations. 

Linux vs. Windows: System Update

When you compare Linux vs. Windows, Windows updates can be a little inconvenient for users because they take place in real-time. A significant difference between Linux and Windows is that Windows updates are time-consuming and demand a reboot. 

Linux updates are more convenient for users. Users have full control over the timing of the updates. Moreover, Linux updates are also less time-consuming. Understand sorting in data structures and stack in data structures here. 

Linux vs. Windows: Security

In terms of security, users notice the advantages of Linux over Windows. The difference between Linux and Windows is that Linux is more secure despite open-source code. Vulnerability issues can be spotted and resolved quickly by the Linux community. 

When you see the difference between Linux and Windows, you will realize that Windows is more prone to viruses, malware, and other security concerns. 

Linux vs. Windows: Reliability

When you compare Linux vs. Windows, Linux will be less reliable as compared to windows. The Linux operating system provides a strong system security, process management and uptime. Its entire security process makes it a secure and reliable Operating System. 

However, the reliability of Windows has improved dramatically over the years. A major difference between Linux and Windows is that the latter has several system instabilities and security concerns due to its simple design. 

Linux vs. Windows: Gaming

If you compare Linux vs. Windows, the latter wins in terms of gaming by a large margin. A prominent difference between Linux and Windows is that graphic card manufacturers have their support for Windows due to the large user base. 

 Linus can now support a large number of games with the introduction of beta support but still, it misses out of many.  Linux is gradually making its way to the gaming market with support for multiple games. Windows has emerged as the winner in comparison with Linux in the gaming race.

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Which Operating System is the Best for You? Linux or Windows?

A user must evaluate every difference between Linux and Windows and concentrate on their preferences to choose one. Developers and individuals preferring open-source software will enjoy the advantages of Linux over Windows. But Windows is a widely known operating system globally because of its compatibility and ease of use.