After 30 years with Linux, I switched it for Windows 11 – and found 9 serious problems
After 30 years with Linux, I switched it for Windows 11 – and found 9 serious problems
https://www.zdnet.com/article/i-ditched-linux-for-windows-11-9-big-problems/
Publish Date: 2026-02-03 21:08:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Jack Wallen spends a week using Windows 11.
- During this experiment, he encountered a wide range of issues.
- In the end, it made him appreciate Linux all the more.
“Why do people willingly use Windows?” Less than one hour into my experiment, this question came to mind, and over the next seven days, I was unable to arrive at an answer.
Hello, my name is Jack Wallen, and I’m a glutton for punishment. For whatever reason, a week ago today, I decided to switch my default operating system from Linux to Windows. I did not come at it with any preconceived conclusions. In fact, I wanted the experience to be positive.
Also: Want to ditch Windows? This Linux distro makes that transition easy
I wanted to start using Windows and experience all the reasons people use the OS for both business and personal use. Surely, Windows 11 was an efficient, zippy, user-friendly, and reliable operating system, right?
Turns out, it was none of those things.
Remember, this is coming from a longtime Linux user who has been accustomed to an OS that can be and function exactly how I want it to. I’m used to being in control of my desktop — not having my desktop control me.
That’s exactly how I felt while using Windows 11. I’d been moved out of the driver’s seat and relegated to the back seat with the children, as the adults insisted we do what they wanted, how they wanted, and when they wanted.
Let me share my experience with you. Hopefully, after reading this, you’ll finally want to ditch Windows for Linux.
1. Creating a local account was a pain
Right out of the gate, Windows 11 showed me just how painful it was going to be. I did not want to use a Windows account to log into the operating system (and why would anyone willingly do that?). So, I set about to create a local account.
Wow, what a pain that was. In Linux, I can create an account with the command sudo adduser jack. Answer a few simple questions (such as…
