Millions of Windows 10 users are embracing Linux as a viable alternative to upgrading to Windows 11, with the recent launch of Zorin OS 18 driving record adoption rates for the open-source operating system.
The Zorin Group announced Zorin OS 18, its largest update to date, on the same day Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10. This new version quickly garnered more than 100,000 downloads within just over two days of its release.
Zorin OS 18 just reached 100,000 downloads in a little over 2 days 🎉️
Over 72% of these downloads came from Windows, reflecting our mission to provide a better alternative to the incumbent operating systems from Big Tech.
Thank you for making this our biggest launch ever! pic.twitter.com/6U4h3EQ3dq— Zorin OS (@ZorinOS) October 16, 2025
A significant majority, over 72%, of these downloads originated from Windows users, marking a rare milestone in the Linux community. This rapid uptake signals a growing migration away from proprietary operating systems.
The discontinuation of official support for Windows 10 has prompted millions of users to seek new computing environments. Instead of transitioning to Windows 11, many are exploring free and open-source alternatives like Linux. This shift represents a long-awaited opportunity for the open-source community to expand its user base significantly.
Anticipating the end-of-life for Windows 10, several Linux-focused organizations launched campaigns to ease the transition. In June, The Document Foundation promoted Linux as a secure and free option. Similarly, the KDE Foundation launched its “End of 10” campaign, offering step-by-step guides for new users.
Zorin OS 18 is designed to appeal to Windows users with its enhanced visual interface and improved window management. It offers a window layout manager similar to Windows 11’s Snap Layouts, activated by dragging windows to the top of the screen. Users also have the flexibility to create custom window arrangements.
A key feature of Zorin OS 18 is its advanced compatibility with Windows software. An updated WINE 10 integration allows for faster and more stable execution of Windows applications. The system also includes a database that identifies Windows installers, proposing native Linux versions, web-based alternatives, or WINE execution when an .exe file is detected.
The success of Zorin OS 18 underscores a broader trend towards open-source solutions. Developers are now focusing on creating even more user-friendly experiences to maintain this momentum. This period marks the beginning of a new era for the open-source ecosystem, driven by user demand for alternatives.