Windows is one of the most popular operating systems dominating the desktop OS market. However, that doesn't make it perfect. On the other hand, Linux has a smaller market share, it shines in several areas where Windows doesn't. From advanced customization options to better privacy to the open-source nature, Linux is an amazing platform for a power user.

I use Windows as my primary OS for my work, and it's good on its own. However, to become a perfect OS that can take care of everyone's needs, I believe it can borrow some features from Linux. Here are those.

7 Control over updates

Updates on your terms

Windows updates have been a running joke on the internet because Microsoft has made the simple task of updating too complex. With Windows 11, Microsoft has made improvements in the update process, but you still don't have control over updates. Windows updates too much, and at times, it becomes irritating. By default, you can only pause the updates for a maximum of 35 days. The updates, even the non-feature ones, take too much time to install and require multiple restarts. Every feature update has an expiry date ("end of support"), which is totally absurd. And not updating isn't the only problem. Even if you update your Windows, there's a risk of BSOD and other update-related problems because of incompatible, unfinished, or corrupted updates.

On Linux, you enjoy total control over your updates. You can choose when to download and install updates and which updates to apply. If you are happy with your current version of the OS, you can skip the update altogether without anyone continuously forcing you to. If Microsoft happens to follow Linux's approach to Windows, it can surely enhance user satisfaction and highly reduce frustration. I know they put an end to support for feature updates to encourage users to purchase new Windows versions, but still, they can make updating easier and optional.

6 No ads in the user interface

A clean, uncluttered experience

One of the most frustrating things about Windows is that, even after paying for the license, you have to bear with the ads in its user interface. The ads or enforced promotions begin during the initial setup itself. While these ads generally don't cause any usability or performance issues, they can be intrusive and undermine your sense of ownership over your device.

Linux, on the other hand, despite being free of cost, offers a completely clean, ad-free environment. When using its popular distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and more, you'll experience a distraction-free interface that doesn't disturb your workflow. This also makes the OS more professional.

Microsoft should also focus on adapting this approach instead of monetizing an already purchased OS. Although most of these ads can be disabled from the Windows settings, it would be great if they stopped forcing me to get Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Microsoft Edge, and more. It's nothing of major concern, but it really bothers me.

5 Taskbar and Start Menu customization

Make your OS truly yours

I really like to make my OS entirely mine by customizing every bit of it to my liking. However, that's not possible with Windows, especially when it comes to personalizing the taskbar and Start Menu. Yes, you can pin your favorite apps, hide or unhide taskbar, change size, and more, but you cannot change the layout by default or add functional widgets.

Linux environments like KDE Plasma, GNOME, Cinnamon, and more are the powerhouse of customization. You get plenty of options to personalize the taskbar and application menus. It's so easy to reposition panels, resize icons on the app menu, or even create an entirely new layout. You can also integrate your favorite or some useful widgets directly into the taskbar. Yes, Windows has come a long way when it comes to customization; it would be even more beneficial for everyone if they could borrow these features from Linux.

4 Better privacy controls

Putting users in charge

For every PC user, privacy is a major concern, and Linux is far better than Windows at this. Microsoft collects telemetry data through Windows OS by default in the name of "improving" the user experience. While in Windows 10 and 11, you do have better control over what data you want to share with Microsoft, there's still very little transparency.

Linux distributions, on the other hand, provide better control over privacy and have straightforward privacy settings. You'll have better control over your telemetry data compared to Windows, and that will ensure your personal information and likes stay with you. Microsoft can really do better for Windows users by adopting the user-first approach when it comes to Windows privacy. This will not only build trust with users, but also increase the user base.

3 Built-in live USB functionality

Try before you install

Many Linux distributions, such as Debian, Fedora, and others, offer live USB functionality. It's basically plug-and-play, where you can test and use the OS without actually installing it on the machine. This is incredibly useful when you need the OS just for troubleshooting or experimenting. You can boot into a fully functional OS, try out all its features, and perform tasks.

Microsoft could also introduce the same for Windows, which would make it more user-friendly and help them increase their user base. If not fully, they can at least create a trial version of Windows that can be tested through a USB drive.

2 Efficient resource management and lightweight builds

Optimized for maximum performance

Linux is known for running even on modest hardware machines because of its efficient resource management. The OS is optimized to prioritize critical tasks and minimize background processes, resulting in a responsive user experience. Other than that, Linux distributions like Puppy Linux, Lubuntu, and Tiny Core Linux are designed to run on older or less powerful hardware. These lightweight builds consume minimal resources while maintaining a functional and responsive user experience. They're ideal for repurposing old computers or creating dedicated systems for specific tasks.

Windows, on the other hand, has a reputation for being a resource hog. It unnecessarily consumes resources and often slows down on older machines. In fact, Windows 11 isn't even supported on many older but well-to-do laptops. A lightweight version of Windows, optimized for low-end hardware, could breathe new life into older devices and cater to users who prioritize performance over features. By adopting Linux's approach to lightweight builds, Microsoft could make Windows accessible to a broader range of devices and users.

Microsoft can improve Windows' performance by adapting Linux's resource management techniques. Linux-type lightweight builds could also make Windows accessible to a broader range of devices.

1 Open-source transparency

A peek under the hood

One of Linux's greatest strengths is its open-source nature. Users and developers can inspect the code, ensuring there are no hidden vulnerabilities, backdoors, or malicious practices. This transparency also helps developers develop new software for the OS. Open-source projects benefit from worldwide contributions, quick bug fixes, and a level of trust that proprietary software struggles to achieve.

Windows, as a proprietary OS, lacks this level of openness. While Microsoft has taken steps to open-source some tools and components, such as .NET and Visual Studio Code, making Windows more open would be a welcome move. An open-source Windows could also result in faster and better innovations and improved software quality.

Borrowing the best for the best

Windows is undoubtedly a popular OS for many reasons, but it also has too many problems. Linux usually follows a user-first approach that makes it popular among power users, like developers. It offers better user control, efficiency, and flexibility. By including the above-listed features of Linux into Windows, Microsoft could create an operating system that meets the needs of modern users while also remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Microsoft, it's time to take notes!