Zorin OS is experiencing a surge in popularity, with downloads reaching 1 million in just one month, 78% of which come from Windows users.
This system, named Zorin OS, is rapidly attracting users who are reluctant to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.Statistics show that after Windows 10 stopped receiving service updates, approximately 400 to 500 million computers worldwide do not meet the system requirements for Windows 11, seemingly leaving only the option of device obsolescence.
However, just like when Windows XP and Windows 7 stopped receiving service updates, many users who preferred these versions are still using them today. These users often proactively disabled system updates during the support period, and they are not a small number.Only those who consider system security updates important would think about upgrading to Windows 11 or switching to another Linux distribution that still has security support.
So, what exactly is the magic of Zorin OS that has led to 1 million downloads in just one month after the release of the new version, Zorin OS 18? Is the Linux desktop system finally gaining traction?
The Storm After Windows 10 Stops Support
In October 2025, Windows 10 will stop receiving service support. Users who wish to continue receiving support have the following options:
1. Pay to enable service support;
2. Upgrade hardware to Windows 11;
3. Install the LTSC version, which will be supported until 2032;
4. Use methods to update unsupported devices to Windows 11;
5. Look for alternative Linux distributions with service updates;
According to official statements, devices that cannot receive system updates will face security risks. Based on this, approximately 400 to 500 million devices worldwide that do not support Windows 11 are at risk due to the lack of security updates.
Some devices may support Windows 11, but users have certain reservations about the Windows 11 system. After Windows 10 stops updating, they may choose to install a Linux distribution on their computers.
How Zorin OS Wins Over Windows Users
Zorin OS is a branch of Linux distributions that was released in 2009, so it is not a brand new system. After more than a decade of refinement, the system’s functionality and user experience have gradually improved.
Zorin OS 18 is developed based on Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS and Linux kernel 6.14, with an interface style very similar to Windows, aiming to provide users with a seamless transition experience.
In terms of interface design, Zorin OS includes a system appearance tool that allows users to switch to a desktop style that suits them with one click.
This feature greatly reduces the learning curve for users migrating between different systems.
The Linux desktop system has always had a significant drawback in terms of applications, as its native applications are far fewer than those on Windows. However, Zorin OS integrates Wine and Bottle compatibility layers, allowing Windows software (.exe and .msi applications) to be used directly at the system level, which resolves the issue that many users face when switching to Linux due to software ecosystem limitations.
In terms of hardware, Linux systems have always been quite friendly. Some computers may struggle to install Windows 10/11 or may run very slowly after installation, but switching to a Linux distribution allows for smooth office use without any issues.
(Different Linux distributions perform differently on various hardware, and not all Linux distributions support installation on very old hardware.)
Users whose computers cannot run the latest version of Windows do not have to throw their computers away; instead, they can install a Linux distribution desktop system and continue to enjoy a modern computing experience.
Looking at the Future of Operating Systems from the Popularity of Zorin OS
The success of Zorin OS is not an isolated case, but rather a reflection of the Linux distribution desktop system.
Although Linux distribution desktop systems can use compatibility layers to run Windows software, users often encounter issues when running Windows software on Linux.
Moreover, there are not many troubleshooting tutorials for Linux desktop systems available online, and sometimes users can only rely on guesswork, luck, or accumulated knowledge when they encounter problems. This leads to a higher learning cost for users when using Linux distribution desktop systems.
Of course, some users fall in love with Linux after switching to a Linux desktop system. This system has almost no ad pop-ups and offers a geeky experience, making them appreciate the simplicity of the command line.
In the future, the competition among operating systems is uncertain. However, the potential of Linux desktop systems is undoubtedly enormous.
Recommended ReadingOld computers prompting “This computer does not meet the requirements for Windows 11” during installation. What to do?Finally here! The old computer’s savior – the cleanest official version of Windows 11After Windows 10 ends support, Zorin OS downloads exceed 100,000 in two days? How to install?UpDownTool free tool allows you to revert to Windows 10 in 5 steps, support until 2032Want to experience Zorin OS, but just want to try it out? Install Zorin OS on VMware virtual machineWindows 10/11 + Zorin OS dual system? Let’s do it!