The end of Windows 10 support appears to have caused a major shift in the desktop operating system landscape. A widely popular Linux distribution has surpassed one million downloads in just a few weeks, signaling growing user interest in open-source alternatives. The milestone marks a significant moment for the Linux community and raises questions about whether users are finally ready to move away from Microsoft’s dominance.
According to data from the distribution’s developers, the surge began shortly after Microsoft confirmed the final stages of support for Windows 10. Many PC owners, faced with the prospect of upgrading expensive hardware just to move to Windows 11, are seeking more cost-effective and customizable solutions — and Linux seems to be fitting the bill perfectly.
Why Users Are Switching to Linux
One of the biggest motivators behind this migration is flexibility. Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Pop!_OS are known for their stability, privacy, and performance on older devices. This makes them ideal for users who want to extend the life of their PCs without compromising on modern features or security.
Experts say this surge could be the beginning of a wider trend, especially among tech-conscious users and small businesses. The open-source ecosystem has matured significantly, offering intuitive interfaces, better compatibility with popular software, and a larger library of supported applications than ever before.
While Microsoft remains the dominant player with Windows 11, this renewed interest in Linux sends a clear message — users want choice. If this momentum continues, Microsoft may need to rethink its upgrade strategy to keep its massive user base from drifting toward open alternatives.
