Computer Cabin — Part 5

Moving from Windows to Linux: My Zorin OS Journey

What if changing your computer’s operating system was easier than you expected?

All my Windows computers were running Windows 10. With Microsoft ending regular support for that operating system and Windows 11 introducing new hardware requirements, I had a decision to make.

I wasn’t interested in replacing perfectly functional computers or dealing with another round of Windows requirements.

For me, Windows 10 was the end of the road for Windows.

Instead of replacing my computers, I decided to explore replacing the operating system.

That’s where Zorin OS 18 entered the picture.

Why I decided to make the change

I’ve long believed that sustainability isn’t just about energy, water, or recycling. It’s also about how we use the resources we already have.

A perfectly functional computer shouldn’t become obsolete simply because its operating system changes or no longer receives support.

Open-source software offers another approach. It gives users alternatives to proprietary systems, encourages reuse, and can extend the useful life of existing equipment.

For me, moving to Zorin OS 18, a Linux-based operating system, was both a practical decision and another step toward digital sustainability.

The journey begins

On October 24, I started with my laptop.

I prepared a USB installation drive, entered the computer’s BIOS settings, adjusted the boot configuration, and began installing Zorin.

The installation went well, although I initially had no sound. Bluetooth worked, and after a couple of reboots, the sound issue resolved itself.

My laptop was running Linux!

The following day, I moved on to my office desktop.

This time I had backed up my files, made a list of applications, and saved everything to an external drive before beginning.

I selected the installation option that included NVIDIA drivers and updates.

There were a few nervous moments, particularly when I began putting files and applications back where I wanted them.

Things weren’t always where I expected to find them.

But then I realized something: I wasn’t struggling with a computer that didn’t work. I was learning a different way of doing familiar things.

That’s an important distinction.

The surprises continued

On October 26, I decided to simplify my email arrangements.

I installed Thunderbird, an open-source email application, and connected an existing Hotmail account.

Within minutes, I was sending and receiving emails successfully.

That was surprisingly easy!

I also spent time organizing my email accounts and working through arrangements for a local backup of my website.

By the end of the process, I had two computers running Zorin, with my files and familiar working routines coming together.

What does this have to do with sustainability?

Quite a lot, actually.

Every computer represents materials, energy, manufacturing, transportation, and eventually disposal.

Extending its useful life reduces the need for replacement and helps keep valuable resources out of the waste stream.

Linux can provide a practical alternative for computers that are still capable of doing useful work, including some that may not meet the requirements of newer Windows versions.

Of course, not every computer or application will be compatible, and some users will need to research alternatives before switching.

But replacing an operating system can sometimes be a much better solution than replacing the computer.

What I’ve learned so far

The transition wasn’t entirely without challenges. I had to prepare backups, work through installation settings, and become familiar with a different desktop environment.

But the experience has been considerably smoother than I expected.

I now have two computers running Zorin, another computer already using Linux in my workshop, and one more Windows machine to consider converting.

And perhaps the most important lesson?

You don’t have to be a computer expert to begin learning something new.

You need a little patience, a willingness to explore, and the understanding that unfamiliar doesn’t necessarily mean difficult.

That’s what Computer Cabin is about: sharing knowledge, keeping technology useful, and helping people become more confident with the tools they already own.

Have you considered moving away from Windows? What has been holding you back?

I’d be interested in hearing about your experiences.

Sustainability grows when we share it.

Computer Cabin | Sustainable Life