Microsoft Engineer Creates Linux Distro Designed for Ex-Windows Users' Comfort - My Trial: Impressively User-Friendly Experience
AnduinOS, a Linux distribution developed by Microsoft software engineer Anduin Xue, is making waves as an appealing choice for Windows users considering a switch to Linux. This innovative distribution is designed to provide a familiar Windows-like experience, resembling Windows 11, while maintaining the versatility and security of a Linux system.
## Background
AnduinOS was developed with the intention of easing the transition for users from Windows to Linux by offering a recognisable interface. It combines the stability of Debian and the package ecosystem of Ubuntu, using APT for system packages and Flatpak for graphical applications. Moreover, AnduinOS adheres to open-source principles, collecting no user data and having its source code available on GitHub.
## Unique Features
One of the standout features of AnduinOS is its Windows 11-like interface. It boasts a customised GNOME desktop with extensions that mimic the Windows 11 look and feel, including a centralised Start Menu and widgets similar to those in Windows. The distribution comes with minimal pre-installed software, including GNOME accessories and Firefox, ensuring it remains lightweight and efficient on older hardware.
AnduinOS supports Wine for running Windows applications and includes Flatpak for installing various Linux applications. It now features a stock software store, allowing users to install applications without needing to use the terminal, making it more user-friendly for beginners. Regular updates are facilitated by a custom script (`do_anduininos_upgrade`), with future plans to use `sudo apt upgrade` for updates.
## User-Friendly Aspects
The design of AnduinOS is reassuring for people transitioning from Windows, as it is not overwhelming. It offers a level of familiarity for Windows users, yet it is customisable for those who desire to modify it to look and behave more like Windows 11. AnduinOS is easy to use, making it an ideal starting point for those considering a switch to Linux.
Being built by a Microsoft software engineer lends AnduinOS extra credibility as an alternative to Windows, and the extensive and user-friendly documentation provided further enhances its appeal. With its Windows 11-like interface, lightweight design, and cross-platform compatibility, AnduinOS is a promising choice for developers transitioning from Windows to Linux.
- The Software, AnduinOS, developed by Microsoft software engineer Anduin Xue, offers a familiar Windows-like experience, reminiscent of Windows 11, while maintaining the versatility and security of a Linux system.
- AnduinOS features a customised GNOME desktop with extensions that mimic the Windows 11 look and feel, including a centralised Start Menu and widgets similar to those in Windows.
- To ensure it remains lightweight and efficient on older hardware, AnduinOS comes with minimal pre-installed software, such as GNOME accessories and Firefox.
- For running Windows applications, AnduinOS supports Wine, and it includes Flatpak for installing various Linux applications.
- AnduinOS now features a stock software store, allowing users to install applications without needing to use the terminal, making it more user-friendly for beginners.
- With its Windows 11-like interface, lightweight design, and cross-platform compatibility, AnduinOS, built by a Microsoft software engineer, is a promising choice for developers transitioning from Windows to Linux, and its extensive and user-friendly documentation further enhances its appeal.
