Ah, Windows—the undisputed titan of the desktop operating system market. We all know it, we all use it, and for better or worse, many of us are stuck with it. But does that make it perfect? Far from it. While Microsoft’s operating system has made strides in performance and usability, Linux—despite its smaller market share—shines in places Windows just doesn’t. From enhanced customizability to groundbreaking transparency, Linux does some things so well that even Windows users can’t help but feel envious.
After diving into this thought-provoking piece from XDA Developers, I couldn’t help but think: what if Microsoft actually borrowed (read: shamelessly stole) some of Linux’s finer features? For Windows enthusiasts and skeptics alike, here are seven Linux-inspired features that could supercharge Windows and make it the OS of our collective dreams.
Linux flips this script entirely. With Linux, you decide when to download updates, what kind of updates you want, and even whether to skip updates altogether. If you’re content with an older version of your OS, so be it—Linux doesn’t boss you around. Imagine Windows adopting this user-centered model: no coercion, fewer update-related failures, and peace of mind.
Microsoft often cites security risks and support expiration ("end of support") as reasons for their aggressive update model, but let’s be real: it’s as much about pushing people toward newer products (read: $$$) as it is about safety. If Microsoft followed Linux’s cue, Windows updates might not feel so oppressive.
Linux, in stark contrast, comes as a free OS—no charge, and no ads. No pop-ups urging you to try XYZ services, no guilt-inducing nudges to switch browsers. Whether you’re working on Ubuntu, Fedora, or Debian, you get a pristine, distraction-free experience that feels professional.
To be fair, you can disable some Windows ads via settings tweaks, but should you really have to jump through these hoops after paying for a product? Microsoft could win plenty of goodwill (and maybe even attract some Linux devotees!) by killing off these unnecessary promotions entirely.
Linux, however, is a tinkerer’s paradise. Distributions like GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Cinnamon let you move, resize, and modify the taskbar and menus as much as you like. Want an entirely new layout? Done. Functional widgets built directly into your taskbar? Easy. With Linux, you can turn your desktop into a unique reflection of your personality.
Windows has improved in customization over the years—just look at Windows 11’s centered taskbar, for example—but borrowing Linux’s sense of freedom would take it to the next level. Microsoft, how about giving us real control instead of pre-packaged options?
Linux, on the other hand, operates on a user-first ethic. From day one, privacy settings on Linux distributions are easy to understand and configure. Telemetry? What telemetry! You decide what data is shared (if any), and the OS gives you straightforward tools to do it.
If Microsoft adopted a privacy model closer to Linux, it wouldn’t just improve Windows’ reputation—it could also attract privacy-conscious users who’ve strayed to other platforms. A little trust goes a long way.
For years, Linux distributions have offered live USB functionality. Whether you’re troubleshooting or just experimenting, you can boot directly into a complete OS, test it out, and decide if it’s for you—all without committing to a full installation.
Microsoft could score major accessibility points by adopting a similar feature. A trial version of Windows that runs on a USB drive would let users preview the OS before installing it on their machine. Bonus? It’d be a lifesaver for tech enthusiasts who frequently switch between multiple environments.
Linux sets itself apart with supremely efficient resource management. Many distributions, like Lubuntu or Puppy Linux, are custom-built to work on older systems with minimal resources. These lightweight builds are quick, responsive, and make even decade-old PCs run like champions.
Would it hurt Microsoft to offer a barebones version of Windows for low-end or aging hardware? It could reinvigorate older machines while making the OS more accessible to users with modest systems. Win-win, right?
Windows, by contrast, stays firmly locked behind proprietary systems. While Microsoft has increasingly open-sourced certain tools (e.g., Visual Studio Code and portions of the .NET framework), the OS itself remains a mystery to those outside the company. Going open-source won’t happen overnight, but even a partial roadmap would be a game-changer.
Imagine the innovation that could erupt from an open-source Windows. New features, faster bug fixes, enhanced security—Linux has already proven that transparency benefits everyone.
By adopting Linux-inspired ideas—genuine update control, better privacy, live USB functionality, lightweight builds, and a touch of open-source transparency—Windows could become the perfect OS hybrid, plucking the best ideas from its competitor while keeping what we already love.
What do you think about these ideas? Are there specific Linux features you’d kill to see in Windows? Let the discussion begin! Share your opinions below on WindowsForum.com!
Source: XDA 7 features Windows needs to steal from Linux
After diving into this thought-provoking piece from XDA Developers, I couldn’t help but think: what if Microsoft actually borrowed (read: shamelessly stole) some of Linux’s finer features? For Windows enthusiasts and skeptics alike, here are seven Linux-inspired features that could supercharge Windows and make it the OS of our collective dreams.
1. Control Over Updates—A User’s Dream
Raise your hand if you’ve ever gotten smacked with an untimely Windows update that required a restart while you were in the middle of something critical. Thought so. Windows updates have become a running joke, with rigid scheduling, inescapable installations, and those dreaded Blue Screens of Death showing up at the worst times.Linux flips this script entirely. With Linux, you decide when to download updates, what kind of updates you want, and even whether to skip updates altogether. If you’re content with an older version of your OS, so be it—Linux doesn’t boss you around. Imagine Windows adopting this user-centered model: no coercion, fewer update-related failures, and peace of mind.
Microsoft often cites security risks and support expiration ("end of support") as reasons for their aggressive update model, but let’s be real: it’s as much about pushing people toward newer products (read: $$$) as it is about safety. If Microsoft followed Linux’s cue, Windows updates might not feel so oppressive.
2. No Ads in the User Interface—Just Stop It, Microsoft
Quick rant time: did you know that even though you’ve shelled out money for a legitimate Windows license, you’re not safe from in-your-face ads? Ads for Microsoft 365, Edge, OneDrive… they’re all there, unsolicited, from the moment you start setting up your system.Linux, in stark contrast, comes as a free OS—no charge, and no ads. No pop-ups urging you to try XYZ services, no guilt-inducing nudges to switch browsers. Whether you’re working on Ubuntu, Fedora, or Debian, you get a pristine, distraction-free experience that feels professional.
To be fair, you can disable some Windows ads via settings tweaks, but should you really have to jump through these hoops after paying for a product? Microsoft could win plenty of goodwill (and maybe even attract some Linux devotees!) by killing off these unnecessary promotions entirely.
3. Customizable Taskbar and Start Menu—Make Windows Truly Yours
For anyone who loves tinkering with their system, Windows isn’t exactly a playground. Sure, you can pin apps, hide/unhide the taskbar, and change the theme, but customization is limited. Want to entirely redesign your Start Menu, reposition taskbars to your liking, or throw widgets into the mix? Sorry, you’re out of luck.Linux, however, is a tinkerer’s paradise. Distributions like GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Cinnamon let you move, resize, and modify the taskbar and menus as much as you like. Want an entirely new layout? Done. Functional widgets built directly into your taskbar? Easy. With Linux, you can turn your desktop into a unique reflection of your personality.
Windows has improved in customization over the years—just look at Windows 11’s centered taskbar, for example—but borrowing Linux’s sense of freedom would take it to the next level. Microsoft, how about giving us real control instead of pre-packaged options?
4. Better Privacy Controls—Stop the Spying
Privacy in Windows remains an area that's ripe for controversy. While Microsoft has rolled out improved telemetry controls in Windows 10 and 11, they still collect plenty of user data by default. Worse, transparency around what’s collected and for what purpose often feels… let’s just say, opaque.Linux, on the other hand, operates on a user-first ethic. From day one, privacy settings on Linux distributions are easy to understand and configure. Telemetry? What telemetry! You decide what data is shared (if any), and the OS gives you straightforward tools to do it.
If Microsoft adopted a privacy model closer to Linux, it wouldn’t just improve Windows’ reputation—it could also attract privacy-conscious users who’ve strayed to other platforms. A little trust goes a long way.
5. Built-in Live USB Functionality—Try Before You Commit
Imagine being able to test a fully functional version of Windows directly from a USB stick—no installation required, no messing with your existing OS. Sounds too good to be true? Not in Linux!For years, Linux distributions have offered live USB functionality. Whether you’re troubleshooting or just experimenting, you can boot directly into a complete OS, test it out, and decide if it’s for you—all without committing to a full installation.
Microsoft could score major accessibility points by adopting a similar feature. A trial version of Windows that runs on a USB drive would let users preview the OS before installing it on their machine. Bonus? It’d be a lifesaver for tech enthusiasts who frequently switch between multiple environments.
6. Efficient Resource Management and Lightweight Builds—No More Resource Hogging
Let’s be honest: Windows isn’t exactly known for its efficiency. It has a penchant for chowing down on system resources, even idling at high CPU and RAM usage. If you’re running an older machine, good luck smoothly handling Windows 11—it’s practically an exclusive club for systems with cutting-edge hardware.Linux sets itself apart with supremely efficient resource management. Many distributions, like Lubuntu or Puppy Linux, are custom-built to work on older systems with minimal resources. These lightweight builds are quick, responsive, and make even decade-old PCs run like champions.
Would it hurt Microsoft to offer a barebones version of Windows for low-end or aging hardware? It could reinvigorate older machines while making the OS more accessible to users with modest systems. Win-win, right?
7. Open-Source Transparency—Let Us Peek Under the Hood
Linux’s open-source nature is one of its biggest strengths. The code is out there for experts to scrutinize, which means vulnerabilities are found and patched quickly. No hidden surprises, no suspicion—it’s all upfront.Windows, by contrast, stays firmly locked behind proprietary systems. While Microsoft has increasingly open-sourced certain tools (e.g., Visual Studio Code and portions of the .NET framework), the OS itself remains a mystery to those outside the company. Going open-source won’t happen overnight, but even a partial roadmap would be a game-changer.
Imagine the innovation that could erupt from an open-source Windows. New features, faster bug fixes, enhanced security—Linux has already proven that transparency benefits everyone.
A Call to Action for Microsoft
Let’s get one thing straight: Windows isn’t going anywhere. It’s too deeply entrenched in the computing world. But that doesn’t mean it can’t learn a thing or two from Linux. In fact, borrowing these features could help Microsoft address lingering complaints and strengthen user loyalty.By adopting Linux-inspired ideas—genuine update control, better privacy, live USB functionality, lightweight builds, and a touch of open-source transparency—Windows could become the perfect OS hybrid, plucking the best ideas from its competitor while keeping what we already love.
What do you think about these ideas? Are there specific Linux features you’d kill to see in Windows? Let the discussion begin! Share your opinions below on WindowsForum.com!
Source: XDA 7 features Windows needs to steal from Linux