If you're one of those Windows users who's worried about the end of Windows 10 support and aren't convinced about upgrading to Windows 11 or buying a new computer, you've probably considered trying alternatives. Within the Linux world, the adaptation may be easier than you imagine, and AnduinOS It is the option that brings the Windows 11 user experience as close as possible, but with the flexibility and freedom of an open source operating system.
We're not talking about a simple cosmetic layer or a theme to camouflage Linux. AnduinOS It has been developed from the ground up to offer maximum familiarity to those coming from the Microsoft ecosystem., both visually and in terms of user experience, eliminating the usual barriers that often hinder the transition to GNU/Linux. We're going to break down in detail what AnduinOS is, its technical basis, how to install it, what it offers in terms of applications, security, and customization, and why it has become such an attractive option for those looking for something beyond Windows.
What is AnduinOS and what is its purpose?
AnduinOS is a Open source Linux distribution, customized to simulate the look and feel of Windows 11. It's based on Ubuntu, which in itself guarantees robustness, stability, and compatibility with the vast database of software packages and repositories available on Ubuntu. The AnduinOS philosophy isn't limited to applying a cosmetic theme over GNOME, but rather profoundly modifies the desktop experience so that switching from Windows to Linux doesn't mean losing any old habits or workflows. This means the taskbar, application menu, navigation, keyboard shortcuts, and even small functional details are all fine-tuned to make the user feel "at home" from the moment they first boot up.
The team responsible for AnduinOS has opted for minimize the learning curve for the new Linux userTo do this, they've implemented extreme customization on GNOME (in its latest version, 48), making everything, from icons and menus, to the file explorer, very similar to the Windows 11 environment - even adding advanced features like clipboard history activated with Windows + V, something that Microsoft users already know well.
Main technical features of AnduinOS
- Based on Ubuntu, ensuring compatibility with most packages and stable software updates.
- Extremely customized GNOME 48 desktop environment, designed to emulate even the smallest details of Windows 11, especially visually.
- Advanced application management using Flatpak, allowing for easy and secure installation of software in isolated environments, to increase security and avoid conflicts between applications.
- Support for native Linux applications, web apps, and also Windows applications thanks to the integration of Wine, which expands the range of possibilities and makes the transition without any major compromises.
- It comes standard with the Linux 6.14 kernel., providing improved support for modern hardware and increased performance.
- Includes exclusive programs and utilities inspired by Windows 11, such as clipboard history, window management fixes, and specific fixes in Firefox to improve localization and HDR support.
Key differences from other similar distributions
AnduinOS It moves away from the strategy of distros that only offer a "Windows-style" visual theme.. Unlike options like Kali Linux with its “Kali Undercover” mode or wubuntu, which also seeks to simulate the Windows experience, AnduinOS builds on Ubuntu and takes customization much further, with deep modifications to GNOME and the system's core applications. Thus, it's not just a matter of icons or backgrounds, but rather replicating the usability and flows that Windows users are accustomed to.
The main orientation of AnduinOS is Make life easier for those who want to migrate from Windows to Linux without losing their computing routinesFor many users who rely on specific programs or a specific desktop layout, this level of detail and customization is key and sets it apart from other alternatives.
Installation: Download and Prerequisites
The AnduinOS installation process is simple and accessible for any user, even without prior experience in Linux. First of all, you need to download the ISO image from the Official Site AnduinOS. The latest available version (May 2025) is 1.3, with support until January 2026. The image is only 1.9 GB, so you can quickly download and burn it to a USB flash drive.
Image verification: It's important to check the integrity of the ISO file before installing it to avoid security issues or corrupted files. The website itself provides the SHA256 checksum for each published image. On Linux or macOS systems, you can use the command sha256sum, and on Windows, applications like 7-Zip can be used to verify the file. If the checksum matches the published result, the image is original and free of alterations.
Available versions by language and regionAnduinOS publishes images specific to different languages and regions, such as 'en_US' for English or 'es_ES' for Spanish. Language packs, input methods, environment variables (LANG, LANGUAGE), time zone settings (e.g., Asia/Shanghai for the Chinese version), and the download mirror for updates (regional mirrors) change. This way, the installation automatically adapts to your language and location.
Step-by-step installation process
- Download the official ISO and check the checksum following the steps above.
- Create a bootable USB using tools such as Rufus (Windows), balenaEtcher or Ubuntu's own disk creator.
- Boot the computer from the USB and follow the installer's visual instructions, which have been simplified to resemble Windows installers, minimizing confusion for unfamiliar users.
- Set the language, time zone, and user credentialsThe experience is optimized so you can have your system up and running in just a few steps.
First steps after installation
As soon as the installation is complete, AnduinOS is fully operational, with the main programs and utilities ready to useHowever, it's a good idea to perform some initial configuration, such as adding accounts in Firefox, installing additional packages via Flatpak, and adjusting system preferences to suit your needs.
AnduinOS provides a official post-installation guide, accessible from the online documentation, detailing the small steps recommended for optimizing your system and leaving it to your liking. From installing additional drivers to configuring services and performing regular backups, the process is perfectly explained step by step.
Application Management: Flatpak and Full Compatibility
One of the strong points of AnduinOS is the program management thanks to Flatpak, which allows you to install almost any modern application in seconds. Flatpak offers the advantage of running each application in an isolated environment (sandbox), improving security and preventing errors in one program from affecting the entire system.
Furthermore, Being based on Ubuntu, the entire catalog of applications of this system is compatible and easily installable. (supports APT downloads). If you need to work with Windows software, AnduinOS integrates Wine, allowing you to run common Windows applications without any complications. This represents a huge leap in flexibility and breaks the barrier of dependence on programs that don't yet have a native Linux equivalent.
Support, updates and life cycle
The latest version of AnduinOS features Guaranteed support until January 2026. However, one of the current obstacles is that It is not possible to upgrade to new versions directly from the system; each major update requires a clean reinstall.The development team is already working to address this issue and hopes to soon release an automated update tool to facilitate the transition to future versions.
Despite this limitation, The advantages of stability, security and simplicity provided by the Ubuntu base make AnduinOS suitable for both home users and developers or enthusiasts looking for a robust and customizable system..
Documentation, community and resources
AnduinOS It has very complete official documentation, available in your docs portal, including installation, usage, and troubleshooting guides and developer resources. Plus, its source code is open source and released under the GNU GPL license, ensuring you can audit, modify, and redistribute the system to suit your needs.
Among the available resources, the user can find:
- Detailed installation guide, with step-by-step instructions.
- Application Guide, explaining how to find, install, and manage software using Flatpak and standard repositories.
- Service Guide, for those who need to host or manage services on their AnduinOS machine.
- Information about the release schedule and support lifecycle for each edition, differentiating between the LTS branch (Long Term Support, recommended for most users due to stability and extended support) and the Standard branch (more oriented towards developers and advanced users).
The AnduinOS community is growing rapidly, and although it's not yet among the top 100 most popular Linux distributions worldwide, interest in forums and technology portals is growing. As it becomes more established, community support, tutorials, and help for both novice and advanced users are expected to increase.
Advantages and possible disadvantages of AnduinOS
The main advantages of AnduinOS for a Windows user looking to switch to Linux are:
- Visual experience almost identical to Windows 11, minimizing the initial shock and allowing the user to maintain their usual habits.
- Compatibility with most Linux and Windows software (thanks to Wine), saving you from having to give up your essential programs.
- Free, lightweight and optimized distribution, with a small download image and very manageable requirements even for older computers.
- Modern and secure application management using Flatpak, with access to the latest software and independent updates.
On the other hand, The current limitations to be taken into account are:
- It doesn't allow automatic upgrades between major releases, which requires reinstallation when a new supported release is released.
- It is not yet an extremely popular distro, which means less community support and less presence on known distribution lists.
- Some advanced customizations may require technical knowledge if you want to go beyond what the initial configuration offers.
Who is AnduinOS designed for?
AnduinOS is ideal for users looking for a smooth transition from Windows to Linux., whether due to the end of support for their current system, for security reasons, or because they want to make the most of their computer's hardware without submitting to Microsoft's demands. It's also useful for developers coming from Windows backgrounds who need a Linux system that won't cost them productivity or time adapting to a completely different system.
In addition, it is perfect for those who want a modern, secure and manageable distribution, but without giving up the aesthetics and feeling of Windows 11.It's an excellent gateway to the Linux world, but with the flexibility of customization and freedom that characterizes free software.
AnduinOS stands out as one of the best options available for those who need or want to migrate from Windows to Linux, but don't want to be complicated by radically different environments. Its meticulous visual integration, compatibility with software from both systems, and modern and secure application management, along with Ubuntu's solid foundation, make it worth considering. Although it has some limitations—such as the lack of automatic updates between versions—its active development and growing community predict positive developments in the short term. If you're looking for a free operating system that will make you forget you've left Windows behind, AnduinOS is undoubtedly one of the most promising alternatives on the current Linux scene.