El end of official support for Windows 10 This has led many users to look at their computers in a new light. With the withdrawal of security updates for most systems, the search for a stable and easy-to-use alternative It has accelerated, especially among those who do not want to or cannot make the jump to Windows 11.
In that context, Zorin OS is positioning itself as one of the most serious contenders to fill the gap left by Windows 10, especially in Europe and Spain, where there are many computers that still work well but do not meet the hardware requirements of the latest version of Microsoft's system.
The end of Windows 10 sparks interest in Zorin OS
The cessation of general support of Windows 10 —with updates only for those who pay for the extensions program— has left a huge part of the computer infrastructure exposed to security vulnerabilitiesDespite Microsoft issuing timely warnings, many home users and small businesses failed to act in time and are now forced to rethink your digital environment.
In just five weeks since support was removed, the Linux distribution Zorin OS has surpassed one million downloads worldwideAccording to data released by those in charge, Approximately 78% of those new users come directly from Windows, which implies some 780.000 people have left the Microsoft ecosystem in a very short time.
In Europe, this trend is particularly visible in countries with a large base of office and educational PCs that still function well but do not meet the Windows 11 requirements. For many of these computers, invest in new hardware It's not worth it, so alternatives are being explored that would allow extend the lifespan of the computer without giving up daily tasks.
Among the recurring reasons for avoiding Windows 11 are stricter hardware requirementsPerformance issues on modest hardware and the perception that it's an even less polished system than its predecessor have put Zorin OS on the radar of those who don't want to continue with the same model of forced updates and changes.
For this user profile, Zorin OS's proposal fits well due to its combination of safety, extended support, and a smooth learning curve, with an approach that is very reminiscent of Windows in the way it works but is based on a modern Linux foundation.
Zorin OS 18: a distro designed for those coming from Windows
The latest version, Zorin OS 18, is the result of a long development process in which they have been polishing bugs and adding user-oriented features to WindowsIts creators present it as an important step for those seeking a replacement for Windows 10 that doesn't involve starting from scratch with the computer.
Official support for this version extends until April of 2029This makes it a particularly interesting option for public administrations, SMEs, and home users who want Install a system and forget about drastic changes for yearsWith the Windows 10 release schedule set for October 14, 2025, that margin of almost four additional years is a compelling argument.
Visually, Zorin OS 18 introduces a completely redesigned graphical interfaceThe desktop offers a more modern look, with rounded corners and elements, new color themes (including yellow and brown options), and an update to several built-in applications, such as the file explorer, calendar, mail app, and camera.
The developers define the experience as a a mix between Windows 11 and macOSIn practice, the user finds a start menu and search box in the lower left corner, a taskbar with shortcuts to the most used applications, and a tray on the right with network, volume, and battery indicators—something very familiar to anyone who has been using Windows for years.
In addition to the facelift, special attention has been paid to multitaskingZorin OS 18 incorporates a simpler and more flexible window tiling system, with the ability to create customized arrangements to organize multiple windows at once and even tile everything automatically using keyboard shortcuts.
Web Apps and compatibility with key tools
One of the points in which Zorin OS seeks to differentiate itself is in the use of the web applications as if they were desktop programsStarting with version 18, the system allows for virtually complete conversion. any page in a Web Appwith its own icon, access from the menu and behavior similar to that of a native application.
This approach is especially useful for those who depend on services such as Microsoft 365, Teams, Google Docs, or Photoshop WebThese tools are widely used in businesses and educational institutions in Spain and the rest of Europe. Thanks to this system, most of these tools can continue to be used on Zorin OS without the need for a specific Linux application.
In addition, the distro includes a mechanism that detects Windows installers and suggests alternatives, either as a native Linux application or as a web version. This feature already recognizes more than 170 different programs and continues to expand its user base, something that can make a difference for users who rely on very specific software.
Integration with cloud services is also receiving attention. It's possible directly from the file explorer. directly access content stored in OneDriveThis is a feature highly valued by those who already work with this service in Windows 10 and do not want to change their way of saving documents.
In addition to all this, there is the possibility of install and run some Windows applications using Wine and other compatibility tools, although it's worth bearing in mind that Not all software will work the same as on a Microsoft system and that in certain cases it will be necessary to resort to alternatives.
Technical improvements: performance, audio, and remote work
On a more technical level, Zorin OS 18 comes with a general performance optimizationThe goal is to offer a smooth desktop experience even in modest computers, typical of the Windows 10 erareducing loading times and resource consumption to make the daily experience more agile.
One of the notable changes is the adoption of PipeWire as the default audio serverThis component allows for more efficient sound management, especially when using Bluetooth devicesand helps to reduce latency in video calls or online meetings, something key in teleworking and distance learning environments.
Also premiering new remote login system using RDPwhich facilitates connection to other computers and servers, an interesting point for administrators and technical staff who manage several computers within a corporate or educational network.
The function “Search everywhere” within the Files app It allows you to locate documents faster, expanding the scope of the search and making it easier to organize large volumes of information, something common in PCs that have spent years with Windows 10 accumulating folders.
The jump to a more modern kernel Improves support for recent hardware, expands compatibility with multiple monitors and touchscreens and helps Zorin OS 18 fit both older computers and newer machines that want to move away from Windows without complications.
Requirements, versions and development status
Although the development of Zorin OS 18 It is very advanced; the version currently available is offered as public betaThis means that it already includes virtually all the new features and changes, but it is still in the debugging phase to locate possible errors before the final release.
Among the pending details, its developers mention that The new wallpaper is not yet included in the ISO. And references to Zorin OS 17 continue to appear in elements such as the initial system tour. These are minor adjustments, but worth keeping in mind if installing the beta on a work machine.
The download is done from the official website, in the form of ISO file which is then recorded on a USB drive using utilities such as Rufus or other similar tools. From there, you can boot the computer from that USB drive to test or install the system.
Los official minimum requirements They are quite moderate and designed so that many computers currently running Windows 10 can continue to function without problems: 64-bit Intel or AMD processor with two cores at 1 GHz, 2 GB of RAM as a starting point and between 15 and 40 GB of storage depending on the edition (Core, Education, or Pro). The minimum recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 pixels.
Regarding editions, in addition to the free versions, Zorin OS has a Paid Pro version It includes more customization options and a new compact style inspired by other popular distributions like Linux Mint or elementary OS, something that may appeal to those looking for a denser and more traditional desktop.
How to test and migrate from Windows 10 to Zorin OS
One of the strengths of this distribution is that the The testing and migration process is designed for users without extensive technical knowledge.It is not necessary to commit to a permanent installation from the very first minute, which greatly reduces the fear of change.
After downloading the ISO and creating the bootable USB drive, Zorin OS allows Test the system in “Live USB” modeIn this mode, the computer boots from the USB drive and the operating system can be used without modifying the contents of the hard drive, which is useful for checking if it recognizes the hardware correctly and if the interface is user-friendly.
Those who prefer an even more conservative approach can try Zorin OS in a virtual machineWithin Windows 10 or another system, you can get a feel for how it works before considering a complete switch. While performance won't be identical, it's a simple way to familiarize yourself with the environment.
Once the decision has been made, the guided installation simplifies the task and allows both completely replace Windows How to set up a dual boot, keeping both systems on the same PC. This last option can be useful during a transition period when you still need to access the old system occasionally.
La compatibility with Windows programs using WineThe detection of installers and the integration of Web Apps reduce the need to change tools on a daily basis, although it is always advisable to review which specific applications are used and what alternatives exist before taking the step in a critical work environment.
Advantages, limitations, and ideal user profile
With the end of Windows 10 just around the corner and doubts surrounding Windows 11 among some users, Zorin OS presents itself as an especially attractive option for those seeking stability and familiarity without remaining tied to the same model of updates and requirements.
Among its positive points, one stands out: interface very similar to that of Windows, a long support period, good integration with cloud services and a strong focus on Web Apps, which allows you to continue using many of the usual tools in business, education and home use without depending on specific Linux versions.
It also adds up to something. ability to take advantage of PCs that still perform well But they would be left out of Windows 11 due to hardware requirements, something very common in homes and small organizations in Spain and other European countries that do not renew equipment as quickly as large corporations.
Conversely, it is important to be clear about some things. major limitationsThe first is that, although there are solutions like Wine, Not all Windows programs will work That's right, and there will be cases where it will be necessary to resort to alternatives or maintain a partition with the Microsoft system. The second point is that Zorin OS, like many general-purpose distributions, It is not optimized for video games.For gaming-focused use, options like Bazzite or future versions of SteamOS for PC might be a better fit.
Furthermore, the system relies heavily on Ubuntu as a baseThis means inheriting both its advantages and limitations. And while there is a free edition, to get the most out of all the customization options and desktop extras, it may be advisable to opt for the Pro edition, which is not free.
Given this whole scenario, Zorin OS 18 is establishing itself as one of the more serious alternatives to Windows 10 For those who prioritize security, long-term support, and a familiar environment without needing to upgrade their equipment; it's not a perfect solution for every situation, but it fits very well with the profile of home, educational, and small business users who want to continue working with their current PC without being forced to upgrade to Windows 11.
