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Zorin OS
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| Zorin OS | |
|---|---|
 Logo | |
 Zorin OS 17.3 desktop with the GNOME desktop environment | |
| Developer | Zorin Group |
| Written in | C, C++, Python, D, Java |
| OS family | Linux (Unix-like) |
| Working state | Current |
| Source model | Open-source[citation needed] |
| Initial release | 2009 |
| Latest release | 18[1]  / 14 October 2025 |
| Repository | |
| Marketing target | Personal computers |
| Available in | Over 50 languages |
| Update method | Software Updater |
| Package manager | APT, dpkg, Snap, flatpak |
| Supported platforms | x86_64 |
| Kernel type | Monolithic (Linux kernel) |
| Userland | GNU |
| Default user interface | GNOME, Xfce |
| License | Free software + some optional proprietary device drivers |
| Official website | zorin |
Zorin OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu with both free and paid versions.[2] It uses a GNOME and Xfce 4 desktop environment by default, although the desktop is heavily customized for users more familiar with Windows and macOS.[3][4]
Features
[edit]Zorin OS is available in various free and paid versions[5] including versions using Xfce for use with older computers, instead of the traditional GNOME.[6] Zorin OS follows the long-term releases of the main Ubuntu system and uses its own software repositories as well as Ubuntu's repositories. The desktop environment themes can resemble those of Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu[7][8][9] and allow the interface to be familiar regardless of the previous system a user has come from.[10] Zorin OS Lite, the XFCE-based edition for older computers, will be supported through versions 17 and 18, with updates until June 2029, and is expected to be discontinued from version 19.[11]
In January 2020, the developers announced plans to release Zorin Grid, which would be software for installing and maintaining Zorin OS within a network, aimed at companies and schools.[12][13] As of March 2025[update], the software is unreleased.[14]
History
[edit]The project was started in 2008 by co-founders Artyom and Kyrill Zorin. The company is based in Dublin, Ireland.[15]
Zorin OS was initially released on 1 July 2009. Since version 16.3, the system's upgrade tool can be used to upgrade existing installations; earlier versions required users to do a clean install. 18 is the most recent version.
Reception
[edit]Zorin OS has been noted as having intuitive and familiar layouts, functionality, and installation process;[16][17][18] as well as for making it easy to use a Windows-similar layout.[17][19]
Notes and references
[edit]- ^ "Zorin OS 18 Has Arrived". 14 October 2025. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
- ^ Phillip, Watt (29 August 2015). Pro Freeware and Open Source Solutions for Business. Apress. p. 218. ISBN 978-1-4842-1130-4.
- ^ "Zorin OS: The Linux Distribution for Windows XP and 7 Fans". linux.com. The Linux Foundation. 24 February 2016.
- ^ "10 reasons to try Zorin OS 9, the Linux OS that looks like Windows". pcworld.com. PC World. 30 July 2014.
- ^ Johnston, Mike (5 December 2016). "Zorin OS 12 Review". CMS Critic. Retrieved 27 October 2018.
- ^ Moore, Shawn (17 December 2019). "Zorin OS Lite Review – 15.1 Lite Edition". CMS Critic. Archived from the original on 22 March 2023. Retrieved 26 August 2022.
- ^ "Zorin OS-Home". Zorin OS. Retrieved 19 March 2016.
Zorin OS is a multi-functional operating system designed specifically for newcomers to Linux. It's based on Ubuntu Linux....The Look Changer lets you change your desktop to look and act like either Windows 7, XP, 2000, Ubuntu Unity, Mac OS X or GNOME 2 for ultimate ease of use.
- ^ "Zorin OS". DistroWatch.com. 28 August 2018. Retrieved 25 October 2018.
- ^ Speed, Richard (14 August 2018). "Linux 4.18 arrives fashionably late while Zorin OS shines up its Windows". The Register. Situation Publishing. Retrieved 27 October 2018.
- ^ "Zorin OS Review – An alternative to macOS and Windows". www.fosslinux.com/. 4 May 2021. Retrieved 24 December 2021.
- ^ "The Future of Zorin OS Lite". Zorin OS Blog. Zorin Group. 16 April 2024. Archived from the original on 30 March 2025. Retrieved 5 April 2025.
- ^ "Zorin Grid – Manage all of your computers. As easily as one". Retrieved 27 February 2023.
- ^ "Zorin Grid Lets You Remotely Manage Multiple Zorin OS Computers". 16 January 2020. Retrieved 27 February 2023.
- ^ "Zorin Grid". Zorin. Archived from the original on 8 June 2024. Retrieved 2 July 2024.
- ^ Prakash, Abhishek (November 2017). "Zorin OS: From the Hobby Project of Two Teenagers to a Growing Startup – It's FOSS". It's Foss. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
- ^ Bidwell, Jonni (22 February 2017). "Zorin OS 12 Core". TechRadar. Future plc. Retrieved 27 October 2018.
- ^ a b "Zorin OS 12 Review: LinuxAndUbuntu Distro Review Of The Week". LinuxAndUbuntu. 2 November 2017. Archived from the original on 14 February 2017. Retrieved 27 October 2018.
- ^ Fagioli, Brian (14 August 2018). "Zorin OS 12.4 Linux distribution is here – switch from Microsoft Windows 10 now!". betanews. BetaNews, Inc. Retrieved 27 October 2018.
- ^ Germain, Jack M. (8 October 2021). "Zorin OS 16: Better GNOME With Much More Simplicity". LinuxInsider. Retrieved 26 August 2022.
External links
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Zorin OS
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Overview
Development and Goals
Zorin OS was founded in 2008 by brothers Artyom and Kyrill Zorin in Dublin, Ireland, with the primary goal of making advanced technology accessible to everyone by creating a user-friendly Linux distribution.[6][7] The project originated as a hobby when the teenage brothers experimented with Ubuntu, leading to the development of an operating system designed to bridge the gap for users unfamiliar with Linux.[7] This initiative was formalized under Zorin OS Technologies Limited, an Irish company dedicated to leveraging open-source principles for broader adoption.[6] The core mission of Zorin OS is to provide a polished and intuitive alternative to proprietary operating systems like Windows and macOS, prioritizing ease of use, privacy, security, and efficient performance on older hardware.[6][8] Unlike commercial OSes that often rely on data collection, Zorin OS emphasizes user control and transparency, with no telemetry or tracking built into the system.[8] It is built on Ubuntu Long Term Support (LTS) releases to ensure stability and long-term reliability.[7] The distribution focuses on delivering a familiar interface that requires no prior technical knowledge, enabling seamless transitions for beginners.[6] This suitability for absolute newcomers is enhanced by multiple desktop layouts that mimic Windows or macOS, a polished and intuitive interface, and a simple app store for easy software installation.[1] Zorin OS targets non-technical users, beginners, and individuals switching from Windows or macOS, particularly in light of events like the end-of-support for Windows 10 in October 2025.[6][7] Zorin OS 18, released on October 14, 2025, achieved over 1 million downloads in its first month, with over 78% coming from Windows users seeking a secure, privacy-respecting option without performance degradation on aging devices.[9] This audience includes those motivated by concerns over data privacy, rising hardware costs, and the need for a virus-resistant environment.[8] The business model sustains development through an open-source foundation, offering a free Core edition for broad accessibility alongside a paid Pro edition that provides additional software, layouts, and priority support to fund ongoing improvements.[8][10] Revenue from Pro purchases directly supports the small team and community contributors, aligning with the mission to expand Linux's desktop presence without compromising user freedom.[8][7]Editions
Zorin OS offers three main editions tailored to different user needs and hardware capabilities: Core, Pro, and Lite.[1][5] The Core edition is the free variant, providing essential applications such as LibreOffice for productivity, along with basic desktop layouts including Windows-like, Touch, Windows List-like, and GNOME Shell-like options via the Zorin Appearance tool.[1][10] It grants full access to the Ubuntu software repositories for additional package installations and is designed for general use on modern hardware.[4] The Pro edition is a paid upgrade priced at a one-time fee of $47.99, which includes everything in the Core edition plus premium desktop layouts (such as macOS-like and Windows 11-like themes), advanced customization tools, exclusive abstract wallpapers, a professional-grade creative suite with applications like a video editor and Photoshop-compatible image editor, and priority email technical support for one computer.[11][12] The Lite edition, intended for older hardware with limited resources, uses a customized Xfce desktop environment instead of GNOME. It includes out-of-the-box desktop layouts mimicking Windows 10 and 11, featuring a taskbar, start menu, and familiar icons, which are accessible via the Zorin Appearance tool for easy switching.[13] This configuration supports smooth performance on low-spec systems, such as those equipped with Celeron processors and 4 GB of RAM, with typical idle RAM usage ranging from 600 to 900 MB.[14] Based on Ubuntu, it offers compatibility with a wide range of software, including straightforward installation of Wine for Windows applications through the built-in software manager, and comes with pre-installed essential applications suitable for beginners.[13] The Lite edition was available up to Zorin OS 18, but will be discontinued starting with version 19 in favor of an optimized GNOME configuration for better performance on low-end systems, with support for version 18 continuing until June 2029.[5][15][16] All current editions of Zorin OS 18 are based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, ensuring long-term support with software updates and security patches until 1 June 2029.[4][17]History
Founding and Early Years
In 2008, brothers Artyom Zorin (aged 12) and Kyrill Zorin (aged 14) initiated the development of Zorin OS in Ireland, drawing inspiration from Ubuntu 7.10's performance and flexibility while seeking to address its steep learning curve for users accustomed to Windows.[7] Self-taught through online resources, the duo aimed to create a more approachable Linux distribution by customizing the GNOME desktop environment to emulate familiar Windows XP and Vista interfaces, thereby easing the transition for newcomers.[6] Early prototypes emphasized user-friendly design elements. The brothers later conducted further development and testing while pursuing studies at Trinity College Dublin.[7] The project culminated in the first public release, Zorin OS 1.0, on July 1, 2009, which was based on Ubuntu 9.04 and introduced basic layout switching options alongside pre-installed multimedia codecs to enhance out-of-the-box usability.[2][18] This proof-of-concept version prioritized simplicity and accessibility, reflecting the founders' vision of making advanced Linux technology available to non-technical users without requiring extensive reconfiguration.[6] During these formative years, the Zorin brothers operated as a small team with limited resources, relying heavily on community contributions for essential tasks such as translations and bug fixes to sustain development.[7] Despite these constraints, their hobby project laid the groundwork for a distribution focused on seamless adoption, underscoring a commitment to ongoing accessibility goals.[6]Key Milestones and Releases
Zorin OS adopted a long-term support (LTS) model starting with version 6, released on June 18, 2012, and based on Ubuntu 12.04, which provided five years of security updates for enhanced stability.[19] Version 15 arrived on June 11, 2019, built on Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, introducing refinements to the desktop environment and broader hardware compatibility while maintaining the LTS commitment until April 2023.[20][21] The Pro edition, offering paid advanced themes and additional software integrations, debuted with Zorin OS 16 on August 17, 2021, which used Ubuntu 20.04 LTS as its foundation and emphasized user-friendly transitions from other operating systems.[22][23] In July 2023, Zorin OS 16.3 introduced an in-place upgrade tool, enabling users to transition between major versions without full reinstallations, a feature that streamlined maintenance for existing installations.[24] Zorin OS 17, launched on December 20, 2023, and based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, enhanced Wine integration for better compatibility with Windows applications, alongside support extending until June 2027.[25] The latest major release, Zorin OS 18 on October 14, 2025, shifted to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS with Linux kernel 6.14, incorporating a modernized GNOME-based design and integrated Zorin Connect for seamless mobile device synchronization.[3][17] Zorin OS 18 achieved over 1 million downloads in just over a month, breaking all previous records for the distribution.[9] By January 2026, Zorin OS 18 had reached 2 million downloads in under 3 months, with over three-quarters from Windows users.[26] As part of ongoing refinements, the Xfce-based Lite edition, aimed at older hardware, concluded with Zorin OS 18, with support continuing until June 2029 despite no further development.[5]Technical Features
Desktop Environment and Customization
Zorin OS primarily utilizes a customized version of the GNOME 46 desktop environment for its Core and Pro editions, providing an intuitive and modern graphical user interface that emphasizes ease of use for users transitioning from other operating systems.[3][4] The Lite edition (the final release in the Zorin OS 18 series, with support until June 2029) employs the XFCE 4 desktop environment to deliver a lighter alternative suitable for older hardware.[4][5] This XFCE-based desktop in the Lite edition includes out-of-the-box layouts that mimic Windows 10 and Windows 11 interfaces, featuring a familiar taskbar, start menu, and icons, making it particularly suitable for beginners seeking a Windows-like experience on low-spec systems.[13][4] The Zorin Appearance application enables easy switching between these layouts, along with access to the Ubuntu-based software ecosystem for compatibility and built-in support for Wine to run Windows applications.[1][27] A key feature of Zorin OS is its flexible layout system, accessible through the Zorin Appearance application, which allows users to switch between predefined desktop interfaces that mimic popular operating systems. In the Core edition, users can select from layouts resembling Windows 11, Windows 10, macOS Sonoma, or Ubuntu, enabling a seamless adaptation for newcomers.[1][3] The Pro edition expands this to 12 layouts, including additional options such as Chrome OS-inspired designs and touch-friendly modes optimized for tablet or hybrid devices, along with new additions like compact panel and Linux Mint-like configurations.[11][3] The Zorin Appearance app serves as the central customization tool, offering straightforward controls for theme switching, icon pack selection, and GNOME extension management to personalize the interface without requiring advanced technical knowledge.[1][28] It also facilitates accent color adjustments and panel positioning to further tailor the visual experience. Zorin OS supports over 100 languages out of the box, including right-to-left script handling for languages like Arabic and Hebrew, ensuring global accessibility through integrated locale management.[1][28] To accommodate diverse hardware, Zorin OS incorporates performance optimizations such as low-resource configurations that enable smooth operation on systems as old as 15 years, meeting minimum requirements of a 1 GHz dual-core processor, 2 GB RAM, and 15 GB storage.[29][1] It includes support for Wayland as the default display server protocol in GNOME-based editions, enhancing security and efficiency, alongside fractional scaling options for high-DPI modern displays to maintain crisp visuals across varying screen resolutions.[3][4]Software Ecosystem and Compatibility
Zorin OS employs the Advanced Package Tool (APT) as its primary package management system, leveraging repositories from its Ubuntu 24.04 base for seamless access to a vast array of Debian packages (.deb files).[30] This setup ensures compatibility with Ubuntu's extensive software ecosystem, allowing users to install, update, and manage applications through the command line via commands likesudo apt update and sudo apt install.[30]
Complementing APT, the graphical Software application serves as a centralized store for discovering and installing software, integrating Zorin OS-specific repositories alongside Ubuntu's APT sources, Flathub for Flatpak packages, and the Snap Store for Snap packages.[30] Flatpak support enables distribution-agnostic, sandboxed applications that bundle dependencies, reducing conflicts and enhancing security, while Snap provides containerized apps with automatic updates.[30] Users can add Personal Package Archives (PPAs) for additional software via the terminal, broadening access to community-maintained packages without compromising the system's core repositories.[30]
The Core edition of Zorin OS includes a selection of pre-installed essential applications tailored for everyday productivity and multimedia use, such as the LibreOffice office suite for document editing compatible with Microsoft Office formats, the Firefox web browser for internet access, the GIMP image editor for graphics manipulation, and media players like VLC for audio and video playback.[1] The Pro edition builds on this foundation by incorporating premium applications, including an advanced office suite with enhanced Microsoft Office/365 compatibility, alongside tools like a professional video editor and audio workstation.[11]
For cross-platform compatibility, Zorin OS features built-in Windows App Support, which utilizes the Wine compatibility layer to execute many Windows executables (.exe) and installers (.msi) directly by double-clicking files in the file manager, provided the necessary dependencies are met.[31] This layer translates Windows API calls to POSIX equivalents, enabling a range of legacy Windows software to run natively without emulation overhead, though compatibility varies by application.[31] For gaming, the system recommends Lutris as a frontend for managing Wine-based installations and non-Steam titles, while Steam's Proton tool—integrated via Steam Play—facilitates running Windows games through a customized Wine variant optimized for performance.[32]
Additional integration features include Zorin Connect, which enables seamless synchronization between Zorin OS and Android devices over an encrypted local network, supporting file sharing, photo transfers, notification mirroring, and remote control of media playback or slideshows using the phone as a touchpad.[1] iOS integration is more limited but allows basic notification syncing via compatible third-party apps.[1]
Zorin OS provides robust hardware support for graphics cards, shipping with open-source drivers for Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA GPUs to ensure out-of-the-box functionality.[1] For Intel GPUs, the open-source Mesa drivers are default and update automatically with system packages. For AMD Radeon and newer GPUs, the pre-loaded AMDGPU and Mesa drivers handle rendering and compute tasks efficiently without additional configuration.[33] NVIDIA users can select proprietary drivers during installation or post-installation for optimal performance in graphics-intensive applications, while the open-source Nouveau driver serves as a fallback for basic operations.[34]
Users can manage and update graphics drivers via the "Software & Updates" application under the "Additional Drivers" tab, which lists available proprietary drivers for selection and installation. For NVIDIA, the proprietary driver is recommended for better performance; it auto-installs and updates via DKMS. If issues arise after kernel updates, users can boot with the "nomodeset" parameter or in recovery mode, then reinstall the driver. For AMD, the default open-source AMDGPU/Mesa drivers update with system updates (apt upgrade); proprietary AMDGPU-PRO is available from the AMD website for specific needs. Intel open-source Mesa drivers update automatically with system packages. Users can run sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall in the terminal to automatically install recommended drivers, particularly useful for NVIDIA, followed by a reboot. System updates generally handle open-source drivers seamlessly, while proprietary drivers may require reinstallation after major kernel updates. Leveraging its Ubuntu base, Zorin OS offers straightforward support for easy driver installation, providing a hassle-free experience particularly suitable for absolute newcomers to Linux.[1]
Suitability for developers
Zorin OS 18 is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, providing nearly identical core functionality for developers. Both distributions use the APT package manager, access the same Ubuntu repositories, support Snap and Flatpak, and enable installation of common development tools such as Python, Node.js, Docker, Git, and Visual Studio Code. Both receive long-term support until June 2029, ensuring comparable stability and performance.[4] Ubuntu is generally preferred by developers due to its status as the standard Linux distribution in development communities, abundant tutorials and guides assuming Ubuntu, official support from Canonical, and its role as the baseline for cloud providers, CI/CD pipelines, and many development tools.[35] Zorin OS 18 adds a customized GNOME desktop for a more polished, Windows-like experience, performance tweaks, built-in Windows app support via Wine, and out-of-the-box conveniences that can benefit developers valuing UI aesthetics and reduced setup time.[1] However, its smaller development team and customizations may introduce minor differences or delays compared to upstream Ubuntu. For most programming tasks, either distribution works well. Developers may choose Ubuntu for maximum ecosystem alignment or Zorin OS for a more refined desktop experience if comfortable with its derivative nature.Installation and Support
System Requirements
Zorin OS offers editions tailored to different hardware capabilities, allowing it to run on computers as old as 15 years while providing a familiar experience for users migrating from Windows, especially following the end-of-life of Windows 10 in October 2025.[1][3] The Core, Pro, Education, and Lite editions have the following minimum system requirements: a 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit Intel or AMD processor, 2 GB of RAM, 15 GB of storage space for Core and Lite (35 GB for the Education edition and 45 GB for Pro, accounting for additional preinstalled software), and a display with at least 800 × 600 resolution.[29] The Lite edition, using the XFCE desktop environment and designed for reviving older personal computers from approximately 2005 onward, meets these minimum requirements but is optimized for lower-end hardware through its lightweight desktop. It is noted for its lightweight nature, with idle RAM usage of approximately 900 MB to 1.4 GB based on user reports, allowing smooth performance on older hardware such as 15-year-old personal computers or systems with 4 GB of RAM. Zorin OS 18 is the final version of the Lite edition.[29][5][14][16] Zorin OS exclusively supports 64-bit x86 architecture (Intel or AMD processors) and is compatible with both UEFI firmware and legacy BIOS systems, including Secure Boot on computers manufactured after 2011.[4][36][37] Zorin OS does not officially support ARM-based processors. Mac computers with Apple Silicon processors are not capable of running Zorin OS natively, although it is possible to run it in a virtual machine using applications such as UTM in emulation mode. Microsoft Surface devices with ARM-based processors (such as Snapdragon or Microsoft SQ series) are not compatible. There is currently no official version of Zorin OS for Raspberry Pi computers, though the Zorin team plans to develop support for the Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 series in the future. No official ARM ISOs are available for download. While community methods exist to install Zorin packages on ARM-based Ubuntu installations, compatibility may be limited.[29]| Edition | Processor | RAM | Storage | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core (GNOME) | 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit Intel/AMD | 2 GB | 15 GB | 800 × 600 |
| Pro (GNOME) | 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit Intel/AMD | 2 GB | 45 GB | 800 × 600 |
| Education (GNOME) | 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit Intel/AMD | 2 GB | 35 GB | 800 × 600 |
| Lite (XFCE) | 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit Intel/AMD | 2 GB | 15 GB | 800 × 600 |
Installation Process
Zorin OS is available for download as an ISO file from the official website, with free editions such as Core and Education offered at no cost, while Pro and Pro Lite editions require a one-time purchase to access premium features and support the project's development.[10] Download mirrors are provided for faster access in different regions.[38] To ensure file integrity, users should verify the downloaded ISO against the provided SHA256 checksums using tools like thesha256sum command on Linux or CertUtil on Windows.[39]
Installation begins by creating a bootable USB drive from the ISO, requiring a USB flash drive of at least 4 GB for Core or Lite editions and 16 GB for Pro, Pro Lite, and Education editions.[40] The official guide recommends balenaEtcher for this process: download and launch the tool, select the ISO file, choose the target USB drive, and click "Flash!" to write the image.[40] On Windows, Rufus is a popular alternative that supports both UEFI and legacy BIOS modes for creating the bootable media.[41]
Insert the USB into the target computer and boot from it by accessing the boot device menu, typically via keys such as F12, Esc, Del, or F10 depending on the hardware manufacturer.[40] In the boot menu, select the USB drive and choose "Try or Install Zorin OS" to launch the live session, which allows testing the operating system without making changes to the hard drive.[40] If the system uses NVIDIA graphics, an alternative boot option with proprietary drivers may be selected for better compatibility.[40]
From the live session desktop, double-click the "Install Zorin OS" icon to start the graphical Ubiquity installer.[42] Follow the prompts to select language, keyboard layout, and time zone. An internet connection is recommended to download updates and proprietary drivers during installation.[40] For the installation type, options include erasing the entire disk for a clean install, automatic partitioning alongside an existing Windows installation to enable dual-booting, or manual partitioning via the "Something else" option for custom setups such as separate /home or encryption.[40] The dual-boot option automatically detects and resizes Windows partitions while preserving data.[40]
During user setup, create a username, password, and computer name; automatic login can be enabled for convenience.[40] Check the box to install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware and additional media formats if needed, particularly for NVIDIA or Broadcom drivers. This enables the installation of proprietary drivers during the setup process if an internet connection is available.[40] [34] If this option is not selected during installation or if drivers need to be updated, reinstalled, or managed later (for example, after kernel updates), proprietary drivers can be handled post-installation via the "Additional Drivers" tab in the "Software & Updates" application or by running sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall in the terminal. For detailed information on managing graphics drivers for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel hardware, refer to the Technical Features section.[34] Confirm the summary and proceed; the process typically takes 10-20 minutes.[1] Upon completion, restart the computer, remove the USB, and boot into the installed system.
Post-installation, a first-run wizard guides users through initial setup, including selecting a desktop layout to mimic Windows, macOS, or other interfaces via the Zorin Appearance tool.[43] Updates are managed through the Software app (GNOME Software), where users can refresh the package list and install available security and feature updates.[43] For major version upgrades, such as from Zorin OS 17 to 18, an in-place upgrade is supported using the dedicated Zorin OS Upgrader application, preserving user data and settings without a full reinstall.[9]