Windows

Windows remains the mainstream desktop OS because it supports the widest range of mainstream software, hardware, and enterprise workflows.

Operating System Microsoft United States Official site

Who owns it?

Windows is operated by Microsoft.

Windows

Microsoft

Official Windows product page.

Open source

What people say compared with alternatives

Roundups of Windows alternatives usually say Windows keeps the broadest software and hardware compatibility, while Linux distributions appeal to people who want more control, fewer ads, or a calmer desktop.

Sources: 7 Linux Distributions to Replace Windows 11 and 10

Alternatives to look at

Linux Mint

Ubuntu

Sources used on this page

Windows

Microsoft

Official Windows product page.

Open source

7 Linux Distributions to Replace Windows 11 and 10

Its FOSS

A guide used to summarize how Windows alternatives are commonly described.

Open source