Tag: Linux

  • Linux Desktop Gains 5% US Market Share: 2025 Could Be The Year

    Linux Desktop Gains 5% US Market Share: 2025 Could Be The Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linux Market Share Growth: Linux has reached 5.03% of the desktop operating system market share in the U.S. as of June 2025, showing a steady increase from previous years.

    2. Decline of Windows: Microsoft Windows has seen a significant decline in market share, dropping 13% over the past decade, with Windows 10’s share decreasing to 42.11% by June 2025.

    3. User Dissatisfaction: Many Windows users are frustrated with Microsoft’s ad integration and features like Copilot, while macOS remains limited to expensive Apple hardware.

    4. Linux as a User-Friendly Alternative: Linux distributions are focusing on user-friendliness and customization, offering a free, privacy-focused alternative that can run popular applications through compatibility layers.

    5. Emerging Gaming Options: Linux gaming has improved with tools like Proton and support from Valve, making many AAA titles accessible, while gaming-specific distributions are gaining popularity among gamers.

    The phrase “The year of the Linux desktop” has become a meme that reflects the growing acceptance of Linux as a competitive operating system for consumers, rivaling Windows and macOS. Each year since 1998 has been claimed to be the year for Linux on desktops, yet that promise has not materialized.

    A Shift in Trends?

    However, this might be about to change. Recent data from StatCounter for June 2025 reveals that Linux has captured 5.03% of the desktop operating system market share in the United States from May 2024 to June 2025. Microsoft Windows continues to lead the market with a significant 63.2% share, but this figure represents a 13% decline compared to the previous decade.

    Among the various versions of Windows, Windows 11 makes up 54.72% of the market, while Windows 10, which was at 56.04% until February 2025 and peaked at 66.69% in December 2024, has now dropped to 42.11% by June 2025.

    Apple’s Position

    Apple’s OS X holds a respectable 16.57% of the market, while the newer macOS only has 7.72%. Together, Apple’s operating systems make up 24.29%, still significantly behind Windows.

    The rise in Linux’s market share is notable, now exceeding the “Unknown” category at 4.76%. Chrome OS is trailing with only 2.71%. Over the last few years, Linux has seen consistent growth in desktop usage, moving from 2.76% in 2022 to 3.12% in 2023, 4.44% in 2024, and now 5.03% in 2025.

    Long Road to Growth

    It took Linux two decades to achieve a 1% desktop market share in 2011, and another ten years to reach 2%. According to ZDNet, which favors the US Federal Government Website and App Analytics over StatCounter, 23% of Linux users visit federal websites (this includes Android and Chrome OS), while 11.7% of visitors use macOS. Windows 10 and Windows 11 users make up 15.7% and 15.3%, respectively.

    Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, although Microsoft is now providing options for extended security updates (ESUs) for an additional year. Many users with Windows 10 on capable hardware are unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to its TPM requirement, which can be bypassed, but the methods are not officially endorsed by Microsoft.

    User Frustrations

    Windows users are unhappy with Microsoft’s strategy of pushing ads and integrating Copilot into nearly all features of the OS, affecting even basic applications like Paint and Notepad.

    Conversely, macOS remains restricted to the pricey hardware it comes with. Although there are unofficial methods to install macOS on non-Apple computers, Apple’s transition to its own silicon has nearly eliminated support for x86 Macs. The forthcoming macOS Tahoe will be the last version to support Intel CPUs, and installing macOS on non-Apple hardware is against Apple’s EULA.

    Moreover, the process of creating a Hackintosh is not simple and often involves a steep learning curve.

    Linux as an Alternative

    Many users perceive this gap as an opportunity for Linux. It is free, emphasizes privacy, offers vast customization options, and can perform better than Windows on similar hardware.

    Distributions like Ubuntu, Mint, and Fedora are working hard to make Linux more user-friendly, while compatibility layers such as WINE enable Linux users to run popular applications like Microsoft Office with ease.

    Interestingly, Microsoft has its own distribution called CBL-Mariner for Azure, which it also utilizes for the WSLg backend with WSL 2, allowing native Linux applications with graphical interfaces to run on Windows.

    The Gaming Landscape

    While gaming has traditionally been a stronghold for Windows, tools like Proton and Valve’s efforts to promote Linux gaming via the Steam Deck and Steam OS have made many popular AAA titles accessible on Linux without significant losses in performance or visual quality.

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    Linux Desktop Gains 5% US Market Share: 2025 Could Be The YearLinux Desktop Gains 5% US Market Share: 2025 Could Be The Year
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  • Security Risk in Ubuntu and Fedora Laptops: Full System Compromise

    Security Risk in Ubuntu and Fedora Laptops: Full System Compromise

    Key Takeaways

    1. A serious flaw in the Initial RAM Filesystem (initramfs) can lead to evil maid attacks on encrypted Linux laptops, despite using Secure Boot and password-secured bootloaders.
    2. Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by entering incorrect disk decryption passwords, accessing a low-level debug shell, and injecting malicious scripts.
    3. The initramfs is not cryptographically signed, allowing hackers to modify it without triggering security alerts.
    4. This vulnerability highlights a design flaw prioritizing system recoverability over security, often overlooked in hardening manuals and evaluations.
    5. Users can enhance security by changing kernel settings to prevent the launch of a debug shell after failed password attempts.

    Cybersecurity experts have uncovered a serious flaw that threatens the safety of many encrypted Linux laptops, opening the door to evil maid attacks. A new report from Ernw reveals that even when systems use established protections like Secure Boot and password-secured bootloaders, a major lapse in security can lead to total system takeover.

    The Attack Method

    The vulnerability is found in the Initial RAM Filesystem (initramfs), which is a temporary setup used during the boot process to get the main operating system ready. By deliberately entering the wrong disk decryption password multiple times, an attacker can push the system into a potent, low-level debug shell.

    Exploiting the Weakness

    From within this shell, the essence of the vulnerability can be taken advantage of. Since the initramfs isn’t cryptographically signed — only the kernel and its modules are — a hacker can extract it, add harmful scripts, and repackage it without triggering any security alerts. When the laptop is next booted and the user types in their password correctly, the concealed malware activates with the highest privileges, which allows it to steal the decryption key, record keystrokes, or send out data.

    The researchers emphasize that this issue is more a flaw in design prioritizing system recoverability than a simple bug related to physical security. Importantly, this attack method is frequently overlooked in typical hardening manuals and security evaluations.

    Simple Solutions

    Luckily, addressing the issue is quite easy. Users and system admins who are concerned can change their system’s kernel settings to make sure the computer stops or restarts instead of launching a debug shell after failed password entries. The findings serve as a clear warning that even strong security measures can be compromised by one weak point.

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  • CheckMag | Surface Go: The Best Compact Device Choice for 2025

    CheckMag | Surface Go: The Best Compact Device Choice for 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Small productivity devices like tablets have become less popular, with limited options struggling in multitasking and file management.
    2. A used Surface Go 2 can be a budget-friendly choice, but Windows 11 can significantly slow down performance.
    3. Installing a Gnome-based Linux distribution can transform the Surface Go 2 into a more efficient and portable device for various tasks.
    4. The Surface Go 2 excels as a multi-purpose device for reading, media playback, and remote gaming, with expandable storage options.
    5. Customization options in Linux, such as Gnome extensions, enhance usability and performance on the Surface Go 2, despite its hardware limitations.

    Small productivity devices that can handle desktop-level web browsing, basic image editing, and media consumption have become less popular. Now, the only choices are iPads and Android tablets, which struggle with multitasking, file management, and mobile browsing. There are also gaming handhelds with small screens or options from Chinese manufacturers. While 13-inch tablets and 2-in-1s offer power, they are often too cumbersome to hold for extended periods. In 2025, finding a sub-13-inch device that runs a desktop-class operating system is nearly impossible.

    A Bargain Purchase

    When I needed a portable device that wouldn’t take up much space while traveling with just carry-on, I found a used Surface Go 2 for about $100, featuring 8 GB of RAM and a 128 GB SSD, which seemed like a great deal. However, after testing it out, I discovered the previous owner had “upgraded” it to a fresh install of Windows 11, which made the setup process painfully long—over 30 minutes! Once I got through that, even opening simple applications like the file manager or web browser took ages, and trying to load something resource-heavy like YouTube caused the device to freeze for minutes.

    Transforming the Experience

    I really liked the design, so I sought another way to make it work. Erasing Windows completely and installing a Gnome-based Linux distribution turned my second-hand Surface Go 2 from a sluggish machine into a surprisingly effective, touch-friendly, and portable device.

    Installing the new OS was straightforward: just burn an image to a USB drive and boot from it. I opted for Ubuntu due to my familiarity with it, the abundance of online support, and many guides available for installing Ubuntu on the Surface Go. Any Linux distribution would suffice, but for a better tablet experience without the keyboard, the Gnome desktop environment is key. There are a few steps to follow, like disabling secure boot and re-enabling it after enrolling the keys, but once that’s done, you end up with a functioning system. Installing the Linux-Surface kernel is also a good idea, though most features, including screen rotation, audio, Wi-Fi, and the detachable keyboard, worked right away.

    Minor Limitations

    The only part that doesn’t function is the cameras. This wasn’t a deal breaker since using my phone as a webcam works fine, but there are ways to enable the cameras in most software, including Firefox.

    Working with Linux feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the bloated Windows 11, although one must adjust their expectations. The Surface Go’s processor is weak in all respects, yet launching programs (like Chrome) is fast, and I never faced issues with multiple tabs opened. I wrote this entire article on the Surface Go 2, including some basic image editing, and it never felt like the device was hindering me. Gimp was the slowest to start, taking about 15 seconds, but once opened, it handled basic tasks quite well. The native resolution without scaling provides ample screen space, and switching to 150% scaling for a more touch-friendly experience is simple.

    Multi-Purpose Capabilities

    The Surface Go excels not just as a capable work machine but also as an e-reader, music player, remote gaming device, and TV, making it ideal for traveling light.

    FBReader supports nearly all e-book formats, including ePub and mobi, allowing for comfortable reading without causing strain on your hands. Even though FBReader has not been open source since 2015, it’s among the best touch-friendly e-book readers available for Linux.

    Lollypop serves as a fantastic MP3 player with an intuitive touch interface that makes navigating albums, artists, and playlists much simpler than using something like Rhythmbox.

    You can use Feeds, or the Feedly GUI, to import news feeds and read them just like you would on an iPad or phone, while Kodi allows you to explore and watch your media library. Unlike the iPad, the Surface Go 2 offers expandable storage, so there’s nearly no limit to how much media you can keep on the device.

    Gaming and Remote Access

    With Moonlight, you can stream games from your gaming PC, although the Surface Go surprisingly handles lightweight titles like Hollow Knight quite well. Remmina enables remote access to any Windows machine when you need to manage your gaming setup.

    You can also install WayDroid, which adds Android and Google Play Store capabilities to your Surface Go. My experience with WayDroid was impressive, providing access to virtually any Android app. Still, I generally preferred using native Linux applications.

    Customization Options

    While not mandatory, the Gnome Extension Manager lets you add some useful tweaks. TopHat places a handy set of system stats in the toolbar, showing remaining RAM and disk space, and letting you know how much the CPU is working on the Surface Go. Unless you’re doing something really intensive, all four cores rarely exceed 50%.

    Better OSK helps you customize the on-screen keyboard, utilizing the full width of the screen in landscape mode, while also providing access to CTRL, ALT, and Delete keys.

    From an aesthetic angle, I added the Wobbly Windows and Magic Lamp effects simply because I enjoy Compiz Fusion from the past, and neither adds much strain on the already burdened CPU.

    Conclusion

    The Surface Go is by no means a powerhouse. It lacks the processor, RAM, or even battery life found in more modern devices. If you need a tablet that fits that niche, you might want to consider the exorbitantly priced ROG Flow Z13 (Available on Amazon).

    Still, you can find the Surface Go at reasonable prices in the second-hand market in various configurations (just avoid the 4 GB RAM models). It offers several compelling uses as a versatile all-in-one device. While it’s practically useless with Windows, with a little DIY effort, you’ll end up with a highly flexible, multi-functional device that fits into a form factor not found outside of iPads and Android tablets, providing a potentially more versatile and effective experience overall.

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    CheckMag | Surface Go: The Best Compact Device Choice for 2025

     

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  • AMD RDNA 4 GPUs Launch with Exceptional Linux Support

    AMD RDNA 4 GPUs Launch with Exceptional Linux Support

    Support for cutting-edge hardware has often been inconsistent on Linux, but it seems that the new AMD Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT GPUs might be an exception, possibly due to their unusual release timing.

    AMD’s Commitment to Linux

    As reported by Phoronix, AMD’s RADV open-source Vulkan driver for Linux has already been updated to include support for the unreleased AMD RDNA 4 GPUs. This information was shared by Samuel Ptoiset, who is the lead of Valve’s Linux graphic driver team. He assured that the support for RDNA 4 at launch would be “good enough.”

    Ptoiset mentioned, “This initial support should be good enough but it’s missing two features (cooperative matrix and video decode/encode) compared to GFX11 (RDNA3) because lack of time.”

    Ongoing Developments

    While there are still some features missing, such as Delta Colour Compression and Vulkan Video support, work is actively ongoing to address these gaps. Ptoiset expressed optimism that these final details could be completed ahead of the RDNA 4 launch in March. He stated, “DCC is still under active development, but it might be possible to finish it during the RC period.”

    Even if these features are not ready by the time the Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT GPUs are released, they are still expected to be functional. This is a more favorable situation compared to what often occurs with new hardware. After the launch, efforts will likely focus on enhancing support and performance for specific features, while also fixing any bugs that may arise.

    Upcoming Driver Updates

    The new RADV open-source driver will be included in the Mesa 25.0 update, which is anticipated to be available by the end of February, aligning perfectly with the release of the Radeon 9070 series GPUs. These updates will probably require a relatively recent kernel version, and Phoronix estimates that the minimum requirement will be Linux 6.13 or 6.14.

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  • Facebook Bans Linux Posts, Labels FOSS as Cybersecurity Threat

    Facebook Bans Linux Posts, Labels FOSS as Cybersecurity Threat

    With the Valve Steam Deck increasing in popularity, conversations about Linux are booming among PC gamers. However, it seems that Facebook and its parent company, Meta, are not keen on these discussions continuing.

    Ban on Linux Mentions

    DistroWatch, a well-known site that focuses on various Linux topics, has reportedly faced a ban on posts that mention Linux. After DistroWatch appealed to restore its removed content, Facebook reviewed the posts but decided not to reinstate them. Furthermore, a post from Tom’s Hardware suggests that DistroWatch is not the only one experiencing this issue. Other communities and pages have also been shut down, and some users have even had their personal accounts disabled for discussing Linux.

    Reason Behind Removal

    The alleged justification for these removals is that Linux content “may facilitate the sharing, creation or hosting of malicious content.” Initially, it appeared that Linux-related posts would be completely banned. However, posts have been made on DistroWatch’s Facebook page since the ban on January 20. A simple test was conducted by posting a public message containing a DistroWatch link and the word “Linux,” which surprisingly was not taken down. Thus, the exact cause of these bans and removals remains uncertain.

    A Contradictory Situation

    Interestingly, this situation arises just weeks after Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook announced that the platform would ease its content moderation rules to encourage discussions on more “controversial topics.”

    Meta’s community standards outline what constitutes “malicious software” and related issues:

    We prohibit:

    Unauthorized attempts to access accounts, including trying to get into accounts or profiles that don’t belong to you through deceptive means or without permission from the owner.

    Acquiring or asking for another user’s login or sensitive information to gain unauthorized access, which includes tactics like phishing—creating fake communications to trick users into giving private information.

    Attempts to share or create harmful code, which means encouraging users to download files or applications that can compromise their security, like malware, spyware, or ransomware designed to harm systems or steal money.

    Lack of Clarity on Violations

    It’s not clear if DistroWatch’s posts have broken any of these Meta community guidelines, but none of the recent posts appear to be particularly harmful upon initial review.

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  • Linux Update Could Reduce Server Energy Use by 30%

    Linux Update Could Reduce Server Energy Use by 30%

    The shift first highlighted in a study back in December 2023 is quite remarkable. By altering just 30 lines of code, data throughput can see an increase of as much as 45% while not notably extending the processing time for each request.

    Energy Efficiency Gains

    Simultaneously, there is a notable reduction in energy usage. With computing resources being heavily utilized, a decrease of up to 30% is anticipated. Given that a vast majority of servers globally operate on Linux, this could lead to a massive amount of electricity being conserved.

    As it stands, servers and data centers are estimated to consume around 500 terawatt-hours at present, and this figure is expected to double in the coming years. A mere 10% reduction in that consumption would be enough to entirely power a smaller industrial nation, such as Denmark.

    Optimizing Workflows

    Professor Karstens, one of the authors of the study, states that these advancements don’t necessitate any modifications to the Linux kernel. The key lies in optimizing workflows to reduce the number of interrupt requests sent to the processor.

    Interrupt requests (IRQs) serve to halt program execution to redirect resources elsewhere. After that shift, the program resumes from where it was interrupted.

    However, this method proves to be quite inefficient. By adjusting the kernel, the processor’s cache can be utilized more effectively, and the volume of interrupts can be lowered considerably. Therefore, servers can operate quicker and experience fewer interruptions, especially during peak loads.

    Implementation Challenges

    That’s just the theory, of course. It’s understood that applying these changes in actual servers and data centers will require some time. With the release of version 6.13 of the Linux kernel, the anticipated modifications have been integrated and are expected to be realized in future Linux updates.

    University of Waterloo, Proceedings of the ACM on Measurement and Analysis of Computing Systems, linux.org

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