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7 Reasons to Load Linux on Your Old Computer

You won’t realize Linux power unless you try it out. The operating system is no longer the underdog reserved for servers and disliked for its unsuitability for PCs. A few years ago, the Linux interface itself seemed too complex for the average user. Things have now changed drastically. 

Numerous updates and improvements on the Linux operating system have made it easy to use for most users. Today, Linux has everything it takes to replace Windows and Mac installations on your PC. The operating system is used by millions of people globally, placing it among the top echelon of the favorite PC OS. Besides, Linux is the only PC that still retains some favor with aging computers.

So, if you’re short on cash or just want to maintain your old-school machine, Linux is the best way to breathe new life into your old device and save some bucks. There are varying reasons why people like to use Linux on their older machines. Some seek to save money, while others wish to avoid the e-waste that comes with upgrading to new machines altogether. Of course, some find it fun to run Linux on their machines. If you’re yet to find a good reason, read on for a detailed explanation on why Linux is the best OS for your old PC. 

  1. Open Source

One of the most important reasons you should install Linux on your old machine is that it is open source. Being open-source means that the operating system is free to use, making it the favorite for personal use as there are no strings attached. In other words, you won’t have to make monthly payments to acquire a legit copy of the OS. Besides, you don’t have to worry about entry barriers when installing any Linux distro such as Fedora or Ubuntu. 

Since Linux has no license fee, it falls under Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) and its code is publicly available. This aspect makes the system more interesting, especially for developers who may tweak the readily available code for a different feel and look. 

  1. A Variety of Lightweight Distros

Linux’s open-source nature makes it the most accessible operating software for developers and corporations seeking to create customized versions. Hence there is Linux for every sector and corporation. You will find Linux distributions for programmers, hackers, distributions for extremely old computers, etc. In short, there are more than 500 developed versions of the operating system actively in use globally. 

The flexibility provides you with a platter of choices on what Linux distro you can install. Additionally, some popular distros like Ubuntu variant Xubuntu perform exceptionally on PCs with low processor power and memory when modern Windows versions still struggle under similar circumstances. 

Talking of the modern Windows, there’s a slight change in system requirements, but with the massive memory requirements in Windows 11, you will need a trusted platform module (TPM) in the device. Most modern computers meet significant memory requirements and can circumvent the need for the module. However, there are a lot of PCs, especially the old ones, that may not withstand such a demand. 

Moreover, Microsoft plans to support Windows 10 until 2025. But what happens to users wishing to retain their machines beyond that time? There will likely be a scramble for the latest system, just like it was the case with previous versions such as Windows XP and Windows 7. The next reason provides some hope. 

  1. Linux is More Community Based Than Commerce Based

Sure, Microsoft has long-term support for all the product users, but there comes a time when users need to change the system entirely. Similarly, Apple requires its customers to spend some bucks on new machines.

In contrast, Linux distros tend to focus much of their concerns on the community and ignore the exaggerated commercial concerns. For that reason, every Linux distro that you install into your older PC will remain active as long as possible. Besides, the open-source aspect facilitates an incredible community. It means that you will find multiple threads on the community providing practical solutions to whatever problems you face. Notably, the number of active users in the community is more than active members on forums run by competitors. 

  1. Perfect For Secondary Computers

If you are swept by the technological demands for a modern and more powerful PC, feel free to acquire one. However, it’s still nice to make good use of your older machines. With Linux installed on these machines, you can conduct simple web surfing and interactions through emails and apps. 

  1. Replace your Chromebook

If you need a simple computer repurposed with a lightweight distro for your daily tasks, Linux has your cover. With a Linux PC, you won’t have to worry about a platform so closely tied to Google. If you just acquired a new Chromebook, you have a lifetime of about eight years before you stop receiving updates. However, older machines still receiving updates may stop receiving them sooner. Therefore, if your Chromebook is older and no longer receiving updates, it would be wise to install Linux to keep it secure and updated. 

Moreover, the new norm of telecommuting brought about by the pandemic has caused a high demand for computer components. Therefore, you are likely to experience a shortage of Chromebook components as the devices are used for remote schooling. To address the issue, make good use of your old laptop as a standard machine. Additionally, you can install the “CloudReady” distro, designed to deliver a Chromebook-like experience on any computer. 

  1. Linux is Reliable, Stable, and Highly Secure

The Linux system is highly stable and reliable than other products in the market. The system has a high availability of about 99.9%, mainly due to its built-in security and top-notch design. All this is due to Linux’s massive attention on uptime and process management. Besides, you don’t have to reboot the Linux server after every patch or update. This aspect makes Linux the OS with most servers running online. 

With Linux, a program must log in as a root to change the system configuration and settings. This provision makes it nearly impossible for malware and viruses to penetrate; hence is less vulnerable than its counterpart. Most users don’t log in as root, meaning they are unreachable even if a malware or virus finds its way into the system. Therefore, you browse the internet peacefully without worrying about your system being infected or hacked. Unlike Windows, you can’t upload data from your machine or generate logs making the device more secure and privacy-focused. 

  1. Linux Avoids E-Waste

When Windows and Apple order users to upgrade to new devices, the older machines become obsolete and end up in landfills. Since Linux is compatible even with older computers, you can still retain them for future use and avoid the massive damage from the hazardous chemicals that reach the air, water, and soil. Linux brings a new life to your older and discarded computers, making it a green alternative to the mainstream OS.

Prolong Your Computer’s Life

Since Linux can run even on ancient computers, you can keep using your PC a bit longer. This way, you help keep them out of e-waste recyclers and landfills. If you already have one of the numerous Linux distros in your old computer, you’ll be surprised by the multiple choices at your disposal. Luckily, we have highlighted reasons to help you decide.

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