Windows vs.

Linux
Priyanka Debnath
Techno International New Town, Kolkata -156
[email protected]

Abstract— For decades, the Linux vs. Windows argument has raged on the internet, sparking intense
debates, word battles, and fanatical fandoms. The purpose of this article is to offer a fair analysis of both
operating systems based on specified criteria, while acknowledging that finding the "best" OS is impossible
owing to their huge variances. We define Windows and Linux, explain their history, distributions, and
intended audiences, and provide an unbiased comparison. This research includes user categories, use data,
kernel architectures, file systems, and other critical criteria to assist readers in making educated judgements
about which operating system is best suited to their needs. Finally, the choice between Linux and Windows
comes down to individual requirements and tastes, with both operating systems having distinct strengths and
drawbacks that appeal to a variety of use scenarios.
Keywords— kernel, operating System, open source, Microsoft, administrator

I. INTRODUCTION
Operating systems (OS) are the foundation of contemporary computing, acting as a bridge between
hardware and software, allowing users to efficiently interact with their computers. Windows and Linux
are two well-known operating systems that have played crucial roles in the computer industry. The
purpose of this paper is to present a thorough comparison of Windows and Linux, highlighting their
essential features, functions, strengths, and drawbacks. By the end of this research, readers will have
a better knowledge of the underlying distinctions between these operating systems, allowing them to
make more informed computing decisions.
II. CASE STUDIES

a. Definitions

Windows is a licenced operating system with no access to its source code. It is intended for company
owners, other commercial users, and even those with no prior understanding of computer programming.
It is easy to understand and utilise.
Windows offers features like:
• Multiple operating environments
• Symmetric multiprocessing
• Client-server computing
• Integrated caching
• Virtual memory
• Portability
• Extensibility
• Pre-emptive scheduling

Linux is a free and open source operating system based on Unix standards that supports both
programming and user interfaces. It also includes several independently produced parts that are free
of proprietary code. For performance reasons, the Linux kernel employs the classic monolithic kernel.
Because of its modularity, most drivers can dynamically load and unload at runtime.
 b. Detailed Comparative study

1. Users: There are 3 types of users in Linux (Regular, Administrative(root) and Service users)
whereas, in Windows, there are 4 types of user accounts (Administrator, Standard, Child and
Guest).
2. Usage: According to market research statistics, Windows is installed on 92.63% of the world's
PCs, whereas Linux is used by less than 1% of PC users. Many users claim that Linux is more
difficult to operate than Windows, hence its appeal for home usage is limited. It is primarily
intended for serious applications such as server applications. As a result, regardless of the GUI,
corporate servers run Linux.

Fig. 1 Worldwide Usage

Furthermore, as part of the licencing deal with Microsoft, other PC producers are
allowed to bundle Windows OS with their PC, allowing Windows to gain market share against
Linux. Despite the fact that several PC companies, such as Dell and HP, have begun to provide
Linux as a pre-installed operating system, Windows continues to dominate the market.

3. Kernel: Linux uses the monolithic kernel which consumes more running space whereas
Windows uses the micro-kernel which takes less space but lowers the system running
efficiency than Linux.

4. File Systems: Files in Microsoft Windows are kept in directories/folders on distinct storage
drives, such as C: D: E: , however in Linux, files are organised in a tree structure beginning
with the root directory and branching out to many additional sub-directories.

Fig. 2 Difference in file systems

 Everything in Linux is considered as a file. Externally connected devices (such as a
printer, mouse, and keyboard) are also files.

5. Security: Every Windows user has dealt with security and stability concerns at some point.
Because Windows is such a popular operating system, hackers and spammers routinely attack
it. Windows (consumer editions) were first designed for simplicity of use on a single-user PC
without a network connection and did not include security safeguards. Microsoft often
distributes security fixes via its Windows Update service. These are distributed once a month,
with important updates accessible at shorter intervals or as needed.
Users of Windows OS are frequently confronted with the BLUE SCREEN OF DEATH.
This is caused by the system's failure to respond. Eventually, the user must set aside his or her
anger and restart the computer manually.

Fig. 3 Bugs and Security threats

Linux, on the other hand, is built on a multi-user architecture, which makes it far more
reliable than a single-user OS like Windows. Because Linux is community-driven, with
constant monitoring by developers from all around the world, any new problem may be fixed
within a few hours, and the appropriate patch can be available for distribution.

6. Compatibility: This is where Microsoft's product completely outperforms Linux. Despite

recent advances in software porting or development for Linux, Windows remains the
undisputed king of compatibility.

Fig. 4 Compatibility Difference

 Users of Windows may be confident that practically any software (even the most
obscure, obsolete applications) will function properly, even if developers have abandoned it.
Windows has excellent legacy support. In contrast, Linux has struggled with fundamentals that
Windows users take for granted.

7. Programming: Almost all of the main programming languages (Python, C/C++, Java, Ruby,
Perl, and so on) are supported by Linux. Furthermore, it depicts a wide range of programming-
related applications.
For developers, the Linux terminal is considerably superior to the Windows command
line. Many libraries have been written specifically for Linux. Furthermore, many programmers
point out that they can easily perform things on Linux by using the package manager. One of
the most convincing reasons why programmers favour Linux OS is the ability to script in
multiple shells.
SSH is also supported natively in Linux. This would allow you to manage your servers
more rapidly. You might include apt-get commands, which would increase the popularity of
Linux among programmers.

8. Distributions: While Windows has kept a fairly traditional version structure, with upgrades and
versions divided into tiers, Linux is significantly more complicated.
The Linux Kernel, which was originally created as an open source operating system,
now serves as the foundation for all Linux operating systems. However, because it is open
source, anybody may edit or adapt the OS to suit their needs. As a result, there are hundreds of
customised Linux-based operating systems known as distributions, or 'distros'. This makes
choosing between them extremely tough, making it significantly harder than simply selecting
Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10.

Fig. 4 Linux Distributions and Windows OS versions

However, this has its own set of benefits. Given the nature of open source software, the
functionality and sophistication of these distributions can vary greatly, and many are always
growing. The options are nearly overwhelming.

9. CPU Usage: Although Linux does not consume as much CPU as Windows, it may deliver
superior performance. Linux is more resource efficient, and it may operate better on older,
slower CPUs. Because Linux has fewer core processes and a lightweight kernel, more CPU is
available for user programmes. Linux also includes an optimised file system, which speeds up
directory and file access. Linux calculates CPU utilisation as a percentage of each core. For
 example, if you have a 12-core CPU, something that consumes 1200% of the CPU consumes
100% in Windows.

10. Reliability: The reliability differences between Windows and Linux are seen in a variety of
ways. Linux is well-known for its remarkable stability, particularly in server environments
where it can operate for lengthy periods of time without needing to be rebooted. Its open-source
nature and regular upgrades contribute to its high security and dependability. Furthermore,
Linux has considerable customization capabilities, allowing users to exactly tune their systems
to their needs, which can improve overall reliability. However, the dependability of Linux can
be affected by the user's or system administrator's competence, since creating and maintaining
Linux systems might necessitate a greater degree of technical proficiency.
Windows, on the other hand, has made significant efforts in increasing stability over
the years, but it may still require occasional reboots, particularly after upgrades or driver
installs. Windows is the industry standard for desktop environments due to its excellent
interoperability with a wide range of hardware and software. However, programme
compatibility concerns, user behaviours, and update management can all have an impact on a
Windows system's reliability. While Windows has a more user-friendly interface, keeping it
reliable may necessitate paying close attention to security practises and upgrades. To guarantee
the appropriate degree of dependability, the decision between Windows and Linux should take
individual use cases and available system management experience into account.

c. Summarised Difference

Table I : Linux vs. Windows

 III. CONCLUSIONS

In the age-old dispute of Windows vs. Linux, it is clear that both operating systems have distinct
capabilities and serve different purposes. Windows, with its user-friendly interface and substantial
programmed compatibility, is the preferred operating system for many desktop users and businesses
that rely on a diverse set of proprietary applications. However, in order to sustain reliability, Windows
frequently necessitates vigilant monitoring of updates and security practices.
Linux, on the other hand, thrives in terms of reliability, security, and customization as an open-
source powerhouse. Because of its outstanding uptime and powerful security features, it serves as the
foundation for innumerable servers, supercomputers, and embedded devices. Nonetheless, for system
management, Linux necessitates a higher degree of technical competence and may have limits in terms
of proprietary programmed compatibility.
The decision between Windows and Linux is influenced by individual use cases as well as the
priorities of consumers or organizations. Windows provides simplicity and adaptability but may need
rigorous maintenance, whereas Linux excels in dependability and security but necessitates a more
technically savvy user base. Finally, the selection should be led by a thorough assessment of needs,
preferences, and system administration resources, ensuring that the most appropriate operating system
is selected to satisfy those criteria efficiently.