Why everyday users are switching to Linux for more control over privacy

Four people interviewed by TechRadar say they switched to Linux within the last six months to regain control over their privacy and data. They include a clinical psychologist in Queensland, an artist in Atlanta, a bio-behavioural scientist in North Carolina and a technical engineer in Hungary.

The article describes growing dissatisfaction with Windows, including Microsoft’s promotion of Windows 11 and data collection. It also points to easier-to-use Linux desktops and installation tools, as well as large language models (LLMs) that can help users with setup.

Bio-behavioural scientist Christopher Smith told TechRadar he had no programming experience when he switched after 25 years using Microsoft. He first tried Linux from a bootable USB, then used a dual-boot system. A beginner-friendly Linux Mint distribution with the Cinnamon desktop helped him get started. Smith said he later bought a Linux laptop and was setting up a Linux server.

Technical engineer Imre Lóránt Dévai said data collection can also use computer resources such as CPU, memory and internet bandwidth. He described replacing Logitech software with scripts for the mouse functions he needed. Brisbane-based psychologist Aaron Frost told TechRadar he switched because of concerns about patient confidentiality and Microsoft Recall, which periodically captured screenshots to create a searchable history.

Frost said LLMs helped him get through the first week of switching. Dévai described AI as a possible source of patient, nonjudgmental help, while cautioning that cloud-based AI may be unsuitable once private files are on a computer. The source article’s discussion of LLM risks is incomplete.