Alternatives to Windows 10
Compare Windows 10 alternatives for your business or organization using the curated list below. SourceForge ranks the best alternatives to Windows 10 in 2026. Compare features, ratings, user reviews, pricing, and more from Windows 10 competitors and alternatives in order to make an informed decision for your business.
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1
Microsoft 365
Microsoft
Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based productivity platform that combines familiar tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams into one integrated solution. With the addition of Microsoft 365 Copilot, AI capabilities are built directly into these applications to enhance productivity and streamline everyday tasks. Users can draft documents, analyze data, create presentations, and manage emails more efficiently with intelligent assistance. The platform allows seamless collaboration across teams by enabling real-time editing, file sharing, and communication. Microsoft 365 also includes cloud storage through OneDrive, ensuring users can access their files from anywhere. Copilot helps users generate content, summarize information, and provide insights based on their data. The system is designed to support both personal and professional workflows with flexibility across desktop, web, and mobile devices. -
2
Rocky Linux
Ctrl IQ, Inc.
CIQ empowers people to do amazing things by providing innovative and stable software infrastructure solutions for all computing needs. From the base operating system, through containers, orchestration, provisioning, computing, and cloud applications, CIQ works with every part of the technology stack to drive solutions for customers and communities with stable, scalable, secure production environments. CIQ is the founding support and services partner of Rocky Linux, and the creator of the next generation federated computing stack. - Rocky Linux, open, Secure Enterprise Linux - Apptainer, application Containers for High Performance Computing - Warewulf, cluster Management and Operating System Provisioning - HPC2.0, the Next Generation of High Performance Computing, a Cloud Native Federated Computing Platform - Traditional HPC, turnkey computing stack for traditional HPC -
3
Apple iOS
Apple
iOS 14 brings a fresh look to the things you do most often, making them easier than ever. New features help you get what you need in the moment. And the apps you use all the time become even more intelligent, more personal, and more private. You’re able to do more with your iPhone than ever before. So iOS 14 reimagines the most iconic parts of the experience to be even more helpful and personal. Widgets have been totally redesigned to give you more information at a glance — and now you can add them to your Home Screen. Choose from different sizes and arrange however you like. The new App Library automatically organizes all of your apps into one simple, easy‑to‑navigate view. Apps are sorted by category and your most used apps are always just one tap away. Now you can keep watching videos or continue your FaceTime call while you use another app. -
4
Windows 11
Microsoft
Windows 11 is Microsoft’s latest operating system, designed to deliver a faster, smarter, and more intuitive PC experience. It features built-in AI through Copilot, which helps users complete tasks, generate ideas, and navigate their system more efficiently. The operating system offers improved performance, especially on newer Copilot+ PCs that provide enhanced speed and responsiveness. Windows 11 also integrates seamlessly with mobile devices using Phone Link, allowing users to manage messages, calls, and notifications from their PC. Creative tools like Photos and Clipchamp make it easy to edit images and videos with AI-powered enhancements. The system includes productivity features such as screen recording, app management, and flexible input options like touch, voice, and pen. Overall, Windows 11 combines performance, AI, and versatility to create a modern computing experience.Starting Price: $139.99 -
5
macOS Big Sur
Apple
macOS Big Sur elevates the most advanced desktop operating system in the world to a new level of power and beauty. Experience Mac to the fullest with a refined new design. Enjoy the biggest Safari update ever. Discover new features for Maps and Messages. And get even more transparency around your privacy. Unparalleled power. Legendary ease of use. Limitless creativity. macOS Big Sur brings a refined new design that gives you even more of the things you love about Mac. From full-height sidebars to refreshed toolbars, a clean new app design makes sure your content is always front and center. A sleek design update makes getting to your favorite apps even easier. And a new uniform shape for app icons adds consistency while letting the personality of Mac shine through. A new design combines notifications and widgets in a single view for more information at a glance. -
6
Apple iPadOS
Apple
To take full advantage of the large canvas iPad offers, core elements of the iPadOS experience have been redesigned and streamlined. So you can get more done, more easily than ever. Today view widgets have been redesigned to show you more information right from the home screen. You can choose among different sizes or add a smart stack of widgets, which uses on-device intelligence to show the right widget at the right time in your day. New enhancements like sidebars and pull-down menus let you quickly and easily access more app functions from a single location, without switching views. A more compact search design lets you stay focused on your main task and open apps or search the web with just a tap. And a new as-you-type experience delivers faster, more relevant results. With Scribble, you don’t have to put Apple Pencil away to do other things. You can write by hand in any text field across iPadOS, and your words automatically convert to text.1 Now available in even more languages. -
7
Android
Google
This summer, we’re expanding the ways we keep you safe and finding new ways to keep you connected. Here are the latest features available on your Android device. New delightful and helpful experiences across all of the devices that are connected to your Android phone. Your one-stop home for all your favorite entertainment. From movies and TV shows to games and books. Android 11 is optimized for how you use your phone. Helping you manage conversations. And organize your day. With tools designed to help you do more. Meet people using Android to change what's possible in daily life. Watch and read stories about creative, driven people discovering how to make their world more colorful and connected. With Android by their side. Choices for work, gaming, 5G streaming and anything else. There’s over 24,000 phones and tablets that run on Android. So no matter what you’re looking for, there’s something for you. Your security and privacy are at the heart of what we do. -
8
Chrome OS
Google
Chromebooks have the everything button. It’s one button that helps you find what you need fast. Like files. And apps. And answers online. Press it, and get what you need — all from one place. Work and play with up to 12 hours on a single charge. With Chromebook, you don’t even need to remember your charger. Battery life may vary based on device and upon usage and other conditions. No Wi-Fi, no problem. Recent documents, spreadsheets, presentations and emails are all available with offline access. Pre-download content and enable offline access for documents, presentations and emails to view offline later. Swipe, tap and scroll the way you want. There are many touchscreen-enabled* Chromebooks. Instant tethering with Chromebook keeps you connected to your phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot automatically. -
9
Chromium OS
Google
Chromium OS is an open-source project that aims to build an operating system that provides a fast, simple, and more secure computing experience for people who spend most of their time on the web. Here you can review the project's design docs, obtain the source code, and contribute. We think of Chromium as a tabbed window manager or shell for the web rather than a browser application. We avoid putting things into our UI in the same way you would hope that Apple and Microsoft would avoid putting things into the standard window frames of applications on their operating systems. The tab is our equivalent of a desktop application's title bar; the frame containing the tabs is a convenient mechanism for managing groups of those applications. In future, there may be other tab types that do not host the normal browser toolbar. -
10
Manjaro
Manjaro
Is an accessible, friendly, open-source operating system. Providing all the benefits of cutting-edge software combined with a focus on getting started quickly, automated tools to require less manual intervention, and help readily available when needed. Manjaro is suitable for both newcomers and experienced computer users. Unlike proprietary operating systems you have full control over your hardware without restrictions. This makes Manjaro a powerful Operating System ideal in home, work, and development environments. It is easily possible to run many popular Windows applications, using compatibility software such as Wine, PlayonLinux or Proton via Steam. The examples given here are far from comprehensive! Representing a perfect middle-ground for those who want good performance, full control, and cutting-edge software but also a degree of software stability. -
11
Ubuntu
Ubuntu
Better security. More packages. Newer tools. All your open source, from cloud to edge. Secure your open source apps. Patch the full stack, from kernel to library and applications, for CVE compliance. Governments and auditors certify Ubuntu for FedRAMP, FISMA and HITECH. Rethink what’s possible with Linux and open source. Companies engage Canonical to drive down open source operating costs. Automate everything: multi-cloud operations, bare metal provisioning, edge clusters and IoT. Whether you’re a mobile app developer, an engineering manager, a music or video editor or a financial analyst with large-scale models to run — in fact, anyone in need of a powerful machine for your work — Ubuntu is the ideal platform. Ubuntu is used by thousands of development teams around the world because of its versatility, reliability, constantly updated features, and extensive developer libraries. -
12
macOS Catalina
Apple
If you're using one of these computers with OS X Mavericks or later, you can install macOS Catalina. Your Mac also needs at least 4GB of memory and 12.5GB of available storage space, or up to 18.5GB of storage space when upgrading from OS X Yosemite or earlier. To get the latest features and maintain the security, stability, compatibility, and performance of your Mac, it's important to keep your software up to date. Apple recommends that you always use the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac. The version of macOS that came with your Mac is the earliest version it can use. For example, if your Mac came with macOS Big Sur, it will not accept installation of macOS Catalina or earlier. If a macOS can't be used on your Mac, the App Store or installer will let you know. For example, it might say that it's not compatible with this device or is too old to be opened on this version of macOS. -
13
Arch Linux
Arch Linux
Arch Linux is an independently developed, x86-64 general-purpose GNU/Linux distribution that strives to provide the latest stable versions of most software by following a rolling-release model. The default installation is a minimal base system, configured by the user to only add what is purposely required. Arch Linux defines simplicity as without unnecessary additions or modifications. It ships software as released by the original developers (upstream) with minimal distribution-specific (downstream) changes, patches not accepted by upstream are avoided, and Arch's downstream patches consist almost entirely of backported bug fixes that are obsoleted by the project's next release. Arch ships the configuration files provided by upstream with changes limited to distribution-specific issues like adjusting the system file paths. It does not add automation features such as enabling a service simply because the package was installed. -
14
Linux Mint
Linux Mint
The purpose of Linux Mint is to produce a modern, elegant and comfortable operating system which is both powerful and easy to use. Linux Mint is one of the most popular desktop Linux distributions and used by millions of people. It works out of the box, with full multimedia support and is extremely easy to use. It's both free of cost and open source. It's community-driven. Users are encouraged to send feedback to the project so that their ideas can be used to improve Linux Mint. It's safe and reliable. Thanks to a conservative approach to software updates, a unique Update Manager and the robustness of its Linux architecture, Linux Mint requires very little. -
15
Windows 365
Microsoft
Securely stream your Windows experience—including your personalized apps, content, and settings—from the Microsoft cloud to any device with your Windows 365 Cloud PC. Windows 365 combines the power and security of the cloud with the versatility and simplicity of the PC. From contractors and interns to software developers and industrial designers, Windows 365 enables a variety of new scenarios for the new world of work. Stream your apps, data, content, and settings from the Microsoft cloud to any device. Easily set up and scale Cloud PCs to fit your needs and securely support your hybrid workforce. Pick up where you left off, on any device, and experience new opportunities for work and collaboration. Simplify setup, deployment, and management of Cloud PCs with easy, direct purchasing. Include Cloud PCs with centralized end-to-end management using Microsoft Endpoint Manager.Starting Price: $32 per user per month -
16
Windows Server
Microsoft
Windows Server 2022 introduces advanced multi-layer security, hybrid capabilities with Azure, and a flexible application platform. Elevate the security posture of your organization starting with the operating system. Extend your data center to Azure for greater IT efficiency. Empower developers and IT pros with an application platform to build and deploy diverse applications. See how your cost savings will add up on Azure with offers such as Azure hybrid benefit and extended security updates. Modernize your workloads on Azure, the trusted cloud for Windows Server. Connect on-premises Windows Servers to Azure with Azure Arc. Update to the latest operating system for enhanced security, performance and value. Now you can leverage all of the benefits of the cloud with Azure. It’s free to start, so manage your servers, clusters, hyper-converged infrastructure, and Windows 10 PCs with Windows Server.Starting Price: $501 one-time payment -
17
Windows Vista
Microsoft
Windows Vista is a major release of the Windows NT operating system developed by Microsoft as the direct successor to Windows XP. It was released to manufacturing on November 8, 2006, and was generally available for retail sale on January 30, 2007. Vista was an incremental update to Windows XP, introducing new features and graphical user interface changes, as well as updated security features. One of the most significant changes in Vista was the introduction of a new graphical user interface (GUI) called Aero. Aero uses a transparent glass-like effect for windows and dialog boxes, and also includes new animations and visual effects. Vista also introduced a new security model that uses User Account Control (UAC) to help protect users from malware and other security threats. Vista was initially met with mixed reviews, with some critics praising the new features and security improvements, while others criticized the performance and compatibility issues. -
18
Windows XP
Microsoft
Windows XP is a version of the Microsoft Windows operating system for personal computers. It was released to manufacturing on August 24, 2001, and to retail on October 25, 2001. The "XP" in Windows XP stands for "eXPerience". Windows XP is a direct upgrade to its predecessors, Windows 2000 for high-end and business users and Windows Me for home users. It replaced Windows 2000 and Windows ME, which helped bring the NT and 9x versions of Windows together. Windows XP is a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows you to use different types of applications or software. For example, you can use a word processing application to write a letter and a spreadsheet application to track your financial information. Windows XP is known for its bright color schemes, easy-to-use interface, and stability. It was one of Microsoft's longest-running flagship operating systems, lasting at least 5 years. It was succeeded by Windows Vista on January 30, 2007. -
19
Winux
Winux
Winux is a Linux-based operating system designed to replicate the look and feel of Microsoft Windows while maintaining the flexibility and performance of a Linux distribution. Built on Ubuntu, it uses a customized desktop environment that closely mimics Windows 10 and Windows 11, including a familiar Start menu, taskbar, icons, and overall interface, making it easier for users transitioning from Windows to adapt quickly. It does not require strict hardware features such as TPM or Secure Boot, allowing it to run on older or less powerful machines while still delivering fast boot times and responsive performance. Winux includes compatibility layers like Wine, enabling users to run Windows applications such as .exe and .msi files directly within the system, alongside native Linux software and package support through Snap and Flatpak.Starting Price: Free -
20
EuroLinux Desktop
EuroLinux
EuroLinux Desktop is a breakthrough in the operating system market. It combines the aesthetic and functionality of Windows® and macOS® with the reliability and security of the Enterprise Linux distribution. EuroLinux Desktop introduces several changes to the Linux user interface, making it easy to use for those accustomed to Microsoft® or Apple® software. At the same time, it provides the highest security and stability, because it is built on the source code of Red Hat® Enterprise Linux® 9, commonly used in the most demanding environments such as banks, telecommunications or public sectors. EuroLinux Desktop is designed for individuals and organizations that use Windows® or macOS® daily and are looking for a stable operating system that maintains the aesthetic of the Microsoft® and Apple® solutions and is covered by long-term technical support. EuroLinux Desktop is the answer to the needs of public administration, the financial sector, educational institutions, and normal users.Starting Price: Free -
21
Netrunner
Netrunner
The standard version ships with a full set of pre-installed software for everyday usage and is based on Debian. The Core version is a slimmed down version based on Debian Stable and allows you to build up your own system or run it on low-spec hardware like arm-boards. Netrunner is using KDE Plasma and tuning it to be as snappy and responsive as possible. Netrunner ships several Window- and Desktop-Themes to choose from, so you can start customizing right away. For most of our Window Themes, we are using the Aurorae-3 engine of KWin, which allows blur and transparency even on low-end machines. -
22
Windows 7
Microsoft
Windows 7 is an operating system for PC created by Microsoft. Windows 7 is not as current as Windows 10/11. Windows 7 was actively supported from October 2009 until January 2020. Many organizations still use Windows 7, even though it is not actively supported. It's recommended to upgrade to Windows 10/11. -
23
SparkyLinux
SparkyLinux
SparkyLinux is a GNU/Linux distribution created on the top of Debian GNU/Linux operating system. Sparky is fast, lightweight and fully customizable OS which offers a few versions for different users and different tasks, such as fully featured OS with a lightweight desktop environment, which works out of the box and contain a selection of pre installed common use software for home users. MinimalGUI with Openbox window manager preinstalled only with basic software installed for users whose want to configure their OS/desktop as they want, on the top of Debian, plus any desktop environment or window manager they like. MinimalCLI with no X server, for advanced users whose want to build and configure their desktops in own way. Sparky supports about 20 desktop environments and window managers giving you freedom of choice, having in mind that your computer is made for working, having fun, entertainment, keeping in touch with friends, and many, many other things. -
24
Zorin OS
Zorin OS
Zorin OS is designed to be easy, so you won't need to learn anything to get started. The Zorin Appearance app lets you change the desktop to resemble the environment you're familiar with, whether it's Windows, macOS, or Linux. Built on an Ubuntu & Linux foundation, Zorin OS runs on the same Open Source software that powers the U.S. Department of Defense, NASA, and more. Thanks to Linux's advanced security features, Zorin OS is resistant to viruses. Security patches and software updates are available for years to come. Zorin OS works lightning fast and doesn't slow down with updates. The Lite edition runs snappy on computers as old as 15 years, so you can breathe new life into old PCs. From a full Microsoft Office-compatible office suite to professional photo editing software, Zorin OS comes with powerful apps out of the box. Countless more apps and games are available from the Software store and Steam.Starting Price: Free -
25
Altima Linux
Gotoogle
Open Source Operating system tweaked and customised the way we like it with a selection of the best open source software applications. A worthy replacement for Windows and MacOS. Based on rock solid Debian Linux. This is a desktop computing environment with all of the free software required for general computing work. Other specialist applications are provided as installation guides. Downloads for free and install on many old computers and bring them back to life. What you thought was an antiquated machine most likely is just suffering from bloat. Major applications included are Libre Office, PhotoShack, InkScape, Sublime Text, QEMU, Nginx, Audacity, VLC Media Player, Epiphany, Remmina. Suggested additional free downloads; VirtualBox. WINE. The best part of Altima Linux is the clever combination of Windows and Mac look and feel so that users, new and experienced will enjoy a clean easy to follow and learn desktop environment. We hope that you enjoy testing and using Altima Linux.Starting Price: Free -
26
ReactOS
ReactOS
ReactOS is an operating system. Our own main features are that ReactOS is able to run Windows software, and it is also able to run Windows drivers. ReactOS looks-like Windows, and it is free and open source. ReactOS is a free and open source operating system written from scratch. Its design is based on Windows in the same way Linux is based on Unix, however ReactOS is not Linux. ReactOS looks and feels like Windows, is able to your run all your Windows applications and software, as well as all your Windows drivers, and is familiar to Windows users. You can create your own ReactOS versions! You’re using Open Source software daily if you use Firefox, LibreOffice, OpenOffice, GNU-Linux distributions among zillions of Open Source projects out there. The Open Source projects, as ReactOS, are driven for and by its Community, so being active translating, donating, or coding is a way to help ReactOS boost forward. -
27
AnduinOS
AnduinOS
AnduinOS is a custom Ubuntu-based Linux distribution designed to provide a familiar, easy-to-use experience for users transitioning from other operating systems, particularly those accustomed to Windows. It offers a lightweight and efficient system with a relatively small installation image, allowing for quick setup and immediate usability without complex configuration. It features a GNOME-based desktop environment with a clean and intuitive interface that aligns with common user habits, reducing the learning curve and enabling fast adoption. Built on the Ubuntu ecosystem, AnduinOS is compatible with most Ubuntu packages, giving users access to a wide range of applications and tools while maintaining stability and flexibility. It emphasizes privacy and security by avoiding tracking, profiling, or data collection, ensuring that users remain anonymous within the system.Starting Price: Free -
28
Xubuntu
Xubuntu
Xubuntu is a community developed operating system that combines elegance and ease of use. Xubuntu is an elegant and easy to use operating system. Xubuntu comes with Xfce, which is a stable, light and configurable desktop environment. Xubuntu is perfect for those who want the most out of their desktops, laptops and netbooks with a modern look and enough features for efficient, daily usage. It works well on older hardware too. Xubuntu is built around lightweight software with a lot of consideration for usability. Whether you have a high-end computer or even a moderately older machine, Xubuntu is able to provide you with a smooth and usable desktop experience. Benefiting of the Ubuntu hardware support, Xubuntu is able to work wonderfully with a wide variety of devices out of the box. Plug in your device, chances are it will work! Xubuntu has enough applications preinstalled for you to deal with daily tasks without having to install additional software. -
29
JupyterHub
JupyterHub
With JupyterHub you can create a multi-user Hub which spawns, manages, and proxies multiple instances of the single-user Jupyter notebook server. Project Jupyter created JupyterHub to support many users. The Hub can offer notebook servers to a class of students, a corporate data science workgroup, a scientific research project, or a high performance computing group. JupyterHub officially does not support Windows. You may be able to use JupyterHub on Windows if you use a Spawner and Authenticator that work on Windows, but the JupyterHub defaults will not. Bugs reported on Windows will not be accepted, and the test suite will not run on Windows. Small patches that fix minor Windows compatibility issues (such as basic installation) may be accepted, however. For Windows-based systems, we would recommend running JupyterHub in a docker container or Linux VM. -
30
BunsenLabs Linux
BunsenLabs
BunsenLabs Linux Lithium is a distribution offering a light-weight and easily customizable Openbox desktop. The project is a community continuation of CrunchBang Linux. The current release is derived from Debian 10. The distribution consists of configuration and resource packages installed on top of Debian. There are no changes to the way the Debian base system is administrated. Pre-configured Openbox window manager with tint2 panel, conky system monitor and jgmenu, a feature-rich desktop menu. Assortment of harmonising GTK2/3 themes, wallpapers and conky configurations. Various configuration and application utilities to maintain this system. Additional desktop-, multimedia- and hardware-related packages come pre-installed to offer a better “out-of-the-box” experience. There is no limit to customization. We offer combined live-CD and installation media for the Debian amd64 (x86-64) architectures and i386 (i686) architectures. -
31
LXLE
LXLE
Light on resources, Heavy on functions. Always based on Ubuntu/Lubuntu LTS. LXLE ses an optimized LXDE user interface, it is a simple, elegant and familiar desktop UI. Prudent full featured Apps preinstalled. Latest stable versions of all major apps. Added PPAs extends available software. Expose, Aero Snap, Quick Launch apps, etc. Random and interval wallpaper changer, and theme consistency throughout the system. 100 gorgeous wallpapers preinstalled, and numerous other tweaks/additions available. Both 32 and 64 bit OS versions available. Boot and it's online and ready in less than 1 minute. LXLE is based on Lubuntu which is an Ubuntu OS using the LXDE desktop environment. It is designed to be a drop-in and go OS, primarily for aging computers. Its intention is to be able to install it on any computer and be relatively done after install. At times removing unwanted programs or features is easier than configuring for a day. -
32
macOS Mojave
Apple
macOS Mojave (version 10.14) is the fifteenth version of macOS (formerly OS X), Apple's operating system for its Macintosh desktops, laptops, and servers. It is the third version of the operating system after the name change from OS X to macOS. Audio calls require a microphone (built-in or external) and broadband Internet connection. Video calls require a built-in FaceTime camera, an iSight camera (built-in or external), or a USB video class (UVC) camera; and broadband Internet connection. iCloud requires iOS 5 or later on iPhone 3GS or later, iPod touch (3rd generation or later), iPad Pro, iPad Air or later, iPad or later, or iPad mini or later; a Mac computer with OS X Lion 10.7.5 or later; or a PC with Windows 7 or Windows 8 (Outlook 2007 or later or an up-to-date browser is required for accessing email, contacts, and calendars). -
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Slackware
Slackware Linux
After a long development cycle (including many betas and release candidates to get everything just exactly perfect) we're pleased to announce the availability of the new stable release. You'll find updates throughout the system, with the latest development tools and recent versions of applications, window managers, desktop environments, and utilities. The Linux kernel is updated to version 4.4.14 (part of the 4.4.x kernel series that will be getting long-term support from the kernel developers). We've brought together the best of these and other modern components and worked our magic on them. If you've used Slackware before, you'll find the system feels like home. Want to give Slackware 14.2 a test drive without modifying your disk drive? Then check out Slackware Live Edition! This is a complete Slackware installation that can run from a CD, DVD, or USB stick. Build scripts for all kinds of additional software for Slackware 14.2 are also available. -
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Windows Forms
Microsoft
Welcome to the Desktop Guide for Windows Forms, a UI framework that creates rich desktop client apps for Windows. The Windows Forms development platform supports a broad set of app development features, including controls, graphics, data binding, and user input. Windows Forms features a drag-and-drop visual designer in Visual Studio to easily create Windows Forms apps. Windows Forms is a UI framework for building Windows desktop apps. It provides one of the most productive ways to create desktop apps based on the visual designer provided in Visual Studio. Functionality such as drag-and-drop placement of visual controls makes it easy to build desktop apps. With Windows Forms, you develop graphically rich apps that are easy to deploy, update, and work while offline or while connected to the internet. Windows Forms apps can access the local hardware and file system of the computer where the app is running.Starting Price: Free -
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OmniOS
OmniOS
The open-source enterprise server OS with just the features you need. ZFS, OmniOS' native file system, combines a volume manager and file system with strong data-integrity protection. Easily share volumes via iSCSI, CIFS, and NFS. Run lightweight OmniOS or Linux virtual machines in containers without the overhead of a traditional hypervisor and with full resource control. OmniOS also provides full hardware virtualization via bhyve and KVM for running guests such as Microsoft Windows, FreeBSD, and many others. Virtualize your network infrastructure through Crossbow virtual interfaces and switches and even allocate dedicated resources for specific services. DTrace provides a comprehensive dynamic tracing framework to aid troubleshooting across the whole software stack. Always available, instrument anything on demand. OmniOS is open-source, self-hosting, and maintained on GitHub. All development is done out in the open with pull requests and anyone can grab the source and build OmniOS.Starting Price: Free -
36
Qubes OS
Qubes OS
Qubes OS is a free and open-source, security-oriented operating system for single-user desktop computing. Qubes OS leverages Xen-based virtualization to allow for the creation and management of isolated compartments called qubes. These qubes, which are implemented as virtual machines (VMs), have specific Purposes with a predefined set of one or many isolated applications, for personal or professional projects, to manage the network stack, the firewall, or to fulfill other user-defined purposes. Qubes brings to your personal computer the security of the Xen hypervisor, the same software relied on by many major hosting providers to isolate websites and services from each other. Can't decide which Linux distribution you prefer? Still, need that one Windows program for work? With Qubes, you're not limited to just one OS. With Whonix integrated into Qubes, using the Internet anonymously over the Tor network is safe and easy.Starting Price: Free -
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BlackArch Linux
BlackArch Linux
BlackArch Linux is an Arch Linux-based penetration testing distribution for penetration testers and security researchers. You can install tools individually or in groups. BlackArch Linux is compatible with existing Arch installs. The BlackArch Full ISO contains multiple window managers. The BlackArch Slim ISO features XFCE Desktop Enviroment. The full ISO contains a complete, functional BlackArch Linux system with all the available tools in the repo at build time. The slim ISO contains a functional BlackArch Linux system with a selected set of common/well-known tools and system utilities for pentesting. The netinstall ISO is a lightweight image for bootstrapping machines with a minimal set of packages. BlackArch Linux is compatible with existing/normal Arch installations. It acts as an unofficial user repository. You can install BlackArch Linux using the Slim medium which features GUI installer. -
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Project Solara
Microsoft
Project Solara is Microsoft’s early chip-to-cloud platform for agent-first devices, built to support a future where agents are easy to reach, naturally engaged, and always available across new device form factors. Instead of centering the experience around traditional apps, Project Solara is designed for an open, multi-agent world where specialized agents can be built, deployed, and experienced across every layer of the stack. Microsoft imagines a diverse ecosystem of agent-first devices, from small to large, fixed to hypermobile, and personal to professional, each supported by a base OS, shell, developer ecosystem, apps, web-based intermediation, and silicon integration. It is designed to make agents more capable and accessible by composing hardware, software, cloud services, and developer tools into a foundation for new interaction patterns. Project Solara includes two concept devices that show how agent-first computing could work in practice.Starting Price: Free -
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macOS Tahoe
Apple
macOS Tahoe is Apple’s latest operating system for Mac, introducing a refreshed design and enhanced productivity features. It features a new Liquid Glass interface that brings a modern, transparent look while maintaining the familiar Mac experience. The update integrates Apple Intelligence across apps, enabling smarter workflows, automation, and communication tools. Users can now access features like Live Translation, enhanced Shortcuts, and AI-powered image creation directly within the system. macOS Tahoe also strengthens Continuity by bringing iPhone features like the Phone app and Live Activities to Mac. Productivity improvements include a major Spotlight upgrade that allows users to perform actions quickly without leaving the keyboard. Overall, macOS Tahoe delivers a more personalized, intelligent, and seamless computing experience for Mac users.Starting Price: Free -
40
Unraid
Unraid
Unraid OS allows you to have ultimate control over your data, media, applications, and desktops, using just about any combination of hardware. Video producers, streamers with extensive video libraries, media editors, photographers, musicians, and music collectors use Unraid to reduce their initial costs. Start with as few as two drives and scale using one or more drives at a time. Gamers who also have media servers and like to build their own custom systems use Unraid to do everything without losing their edge. Designers, 3D animators, developers, photographers, and other users who require significant storage use Unraid to locally store assets for fast access. Use Apple Time Machine and Windows Backup services to archive large quantities of infrequently accessed data off of your local devices. Software engineers, game development studios, AR/VR designers, and university labs use Unraid to test software on multiple platforms and across operating systems and devices.Starting Price: $59 one-time payment -
41
elementary OS
elementary OS
The fast, free and privacy-friendly alternative to Windows and macOS. A comprehensive update to a solid foundation. These include, but are not limited to, a completely redesigned login and screen lock screen, a revamped first-use experience, major updates to System Settings, enhancements to included applications, and desktop touch-ups. Get free and paid applications in the Application Center, the store where the user decides the amount to pay to independent developers. Each app has been reviewed by elementary to ensure a native, secure, and privacy-friendly experience. Elevate your productivity and focus with multitasking view, mini-screen mode, and Do Not Disturb. Or remove all work notifications while watching videos or playing games. elementary OS includes a suite of applications carefully selected to meet your daily needs, so you can get more out of your computer without having to deal with bloatware. -
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macOS Ventura
Apple
macOS Ventura is the latest major release of Apple's operating system for Mac computers. It was announced at WWDC 2022 on June 6, 2022, and was released to the public on October 24, 2022. macOS Ventura includes a number of new features and improvements, including: Stage Manager: A new way to organize your windows so you can focus on the task at hand. Continuity Camera: Use your iPhone as a webcam for your Mac, with features like Center Stage and Portrait Mode. Live Text: Automatically recognize text in images and videos, so you can copy, paste, translate, and more. Mail: New features for organizing your inbox, scheduling emails, and finding information more easily. Safari: New features for browsing the web, including Tab Groups, Passkeys, and Live Text. Games: New features for gaming on macOS, including Metal 3 and SharePlay. macOS Ventura is a significant update to macOS, and it includes a number of new features that are sure to make your Mac experience more productive.Starting Price: Free -
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ToyStack Virtual OS
ToyStack Virtual OS
ToyStack Virtual OS redefines virtual desktops with a secure, scalable cloud-based OS accessible through any browser. Its agentless design eliminates traditional software installations, cutting costs and enabling seamless, global workspace access. Built with enterprise-grade security, it features MFA, encryption, AI-driven threat detection, and compliance with ISO and SOC standards. ToyStack supports Windows, Linux, and custom OS, managed via a centralized Control Tower for real-time IT management. AI optimizes resources for zero-lag performance, while automation reduces IT overhead. With pay-as-you-go pricing, ToyStack is a cost-effective alternative to traditional VDI, perfect for remote work, BYOD, and global scaling. -
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Tails
Tails
Tails is a portable operating system that protects against surveillance and censorship. Tails uses the Tor network to protect your privacy online and help you avoid censorship. Enjoy the Internet like it should be. Shut down the computer and start on your Tails USB stick instead of starting on Windows, macOS, or Linux. Tails leaves no trace on the computer when shut down. Tails includes a selection of applications to work on sensitive documents and communicate securely. Everything in Tails is ready-to-use and has safe defaults. You can download Tails for free and independent security researchers can verify our work. Tails is based on Debian GNU/Linux. Activists use Tails to hide their identities, avoid censorship, and communicate securely. Journalists and their sources use Tails to publish sensitive information and access the Internet from unsafe places. Domestic violence survivors use Tails to escape surveillance at home. -
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Pop!_OS
System76
Pop!_OS is an operating system for STEM and creative professionals who use their computer as a tool to discover and create. Unleash your potential on secure, reliable open source software. Based on your exceptional curiosity, we sense you have a lot of it. Pop!_OS is designed for fast navigation, easy workspace organization, and fluid, convenient workflow. Your operating system should encourage discovery, not obstruct it. While you’ve got your wheels turning, take the scenic route with a dock and touchpad gestures, or race along a minimalist track from behind the wheel of a revving keyboard. With a variety of both mouse-driven and keyboard-driven customizations, you’re empowered to navigate your workflow the way you’ve always wanted. Pop!_OS uses auto-tiling for the same reason that people hire assistants: Organizing your work is incredibly time-consuming. Sure, you could still move, resize, and arrange windows yourself, but why spend the time when your OS does it for you? -
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Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS
Parallels
Run full-featured Windows applications including Microsoft Office directly on Chrome Enterprise devices even offline! Empower users with the full potential of the Chromebook and the full power of the Windows ecosystem. Simplify IT management while supporting a robust dynamic workforce. Deliver familiar full-featured Windows apps to your teams’ Chromebooks so they can be fully operational wherever they’re working, at home, in transit, even offline. Reduce IT burden and eliminate stress leveraging Google’s advanced security, audit and management standards and Parallels’ unique cross-platform expertise. Implement an affordable hardware solution without sacrificing the tools, connectivity or computing power that drive your business forward. Get the speed, power, and tools you need to perform at your best no matter where you are. Always-on access to business-critical Windows apps. -
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Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool
Microsoft
Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) helps keep Windows computers free from prevalent malware. MSRT finds and removes threats and reverses the changes made by these threats. MSRT is generally released monthly as part of Windows Update or as a standalone tool available for download. If you have automatic updates for Windows turned off. Windows Update automatically downloads and runs MSRT in the background. If you suspect an infection from prevalent malware families. To complement your antimalware product. This tool does not replace full-fledged antimalware such as Windows Defender Antivirus. Enable automatic updates to regularly get MSRT with Windows Update. The integrated version automatically runs in the background. If you would like to run MSRT on demand, run the standalone version. Microsoft generally delivers MSRT with Windows Update on the second Tuesday of the month. The standalone version available on this page is delivered at the same time. -
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Windows for IoT
Microsoft
When you develop with Windows, you join our world-wide partner ecosystem across hardware and software solutions, integrations, and services. Experience our continually evolving feature set, and developer friendly tools, for a smooth device-building experience. Windows IoT provides 10-Year OS Lifecycle Support that is guaranteed with no hidden costs through our Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC). Windows IoT operating systems support backwards compatibility in line with Microsoft’s application compatibility promise. With Windows IoT you can use Azure services as building blocks to construct customized IoT solutions. Azure provides the industry’s broadest portfolio of cloud services and capabilities according to your needs and with the requirements from your industry. Windows IoT is compatible with any existing device management solution. -
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openIndiana
openIndiana
OpenIndiana is an operating system from and for the illumos community, it branches from the UNIX-derived family tree, and as such it can sometimes seem quite complex. But with a little help and information, once you know the basics, you will find it actually has some of the nicest and friendliest tools around. As most Unix-derived operating system, it can be completely controlled via a Command Line Interface shell, but it also supports a windowing GUI system. From the CLI, it supports a number of different shells, the two main ones being ksh93 and Bash. It also supports the original SunOS SVR4 commands, the command and syntax famiilar to BSD users, and a large portion of the GNU userland commands that most Linux users are familiar with. You can select any or all of those different commands from your shell configuration, giving you the environment you are most happy with. -
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Microsoft Hyper-V
Microsoft
Hyper-V is Microsoft's hardware virtualization product. It lets you create and run a software version of a computer, called a virtual machine. Each virtual machine acts like a complete computer, running an operating system and programs. When you need computing resources, virtual machines give you more flexibility, help save time and money, and are a more efficient way to use hardware than just running one operating system on physical hardware. Each supported guest operating system has a customized set of services and drivers, called integration services, that make it easier to use the operating system in a Hyper-V virtual machine. Hyper-V includes Virtual Machine Connection, a remote connection tool for use with both Windows and Linux. Unlike Remote Desktop, this tool gives you console access, so you can see what's happening in the guest even when the operating system isn't booted yet.
