In this podcast, the hosts run Windows for a week and discuss what's improved and what still needs work. They explore the new Windows App Store and compare it to Apple's Mac App Store. They also compare Windows and Linux desktop environments and discuss the advantages of Linux in terms of performance and flexibility. They highlight the advantages of Linux in IT security and express gratitude towards Jupiter Broadcasting for introducing them to open source software. They share their excitement for an upcoming event and discuss repurposing neglected PCs as home assistant dashboards.
Windows 11 tiling features make window management easy and user-friendly.
The Windows App Store lacks detailed information and limited offerings for apps like VLC and Docker Desktop.
Windows 11 performs well on newer hardware but may experience performance issues on older hardware.
Running Docker containers on Windows 11 is seamless with the integration of Docker Desktop and WSL.
Deep dives
Windows 11 brings improved tiling features
The tiling features in Windows 11 allow for easy window management, with snapping and virtual desktops making it a user-friendly experience.
Windows App Store has a mixed experience
The Windows App Store offers a sleek UI, but lacks detailed information about apps and can be limited in its offerings. Some apps, like VLC and Docker Desktop, had issues with installation.
Windows 11 performance on older hardware
Windows 11 may struggle with performance on older hardware, experiencing slow performance and out of memory errors compared to Linux. However, on newer and more powerful hardware, Windows 11 performs well.
Docker containers run smoothly on Windows 11
Running Docker containers on Windows 11 is seamless, especially with the integration of Docker Desktop with WSL. Containers can be easily set up and managed within the Windows environment.
Writing style B: Focus on Windows and Linux compatibility
The audience suggests the idea of a Windows subsystem for Linux, where users could run Windows apps within a Linux environment. This would allow developers to run their Linux systems and only use the Windows subsystem when necessary. It is proposed that Microsoft could prioritize this subsystem and eventually transition towards a more Linux-based approach. This idea sparks discussion about the potential benefits and practicality of such a system.
Writing style B: Microsoft creating a Linux-based Windows package
There is speculation about the possibility of Microsoft creating a Linux-based package that would enable users to run Windows apps on Linux distributions. This could involve Microsoft supplying software or containers that allow for the seamless integration of Windows apps on certain Linux distributions. It is suggested that Microsoft might prioritize this approach over the traditional Windows system in the future.
Writing style B: Windows shifting towards a Linux-focused system
There is mention of the theory that Windows could transition to a Linux-based system while maintaining its existing user interface on top of a Linux kernel. This idea prompts discussion about the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a shift.
Writing style B: Microsoft releasing Windows software for Linux
The possibility of Microsoft releasing software specifically designed to run Windows applications on Linux distributions is discussed. This software could be similar to the existing VS Code and be focused on running desktop applications rather than the entire Windows environment. The potential benefits and use cases for such software are explored.
We ran Windows for the week with three seemingly simple objectives. How we did, our take on what's gotten a lot better about Windows, and what still needs some work.
Sysinternals — Whether you’re an IT Pro or a developer, you’ll find Sysinternals utilities to help you manage, troubleshoot and diagnose your Windows and Linux systems and applications.
