I no longer help friends and family with Windows issues

2025-03-29 08:50

For years, I was the go-to person whenever a friend or family member had a computer issue. Whether it was a slow system, mysterious pop-ups, unsupported hardware after system update, or software not behaving as expected, I would spend hours troubleshooting and fixing things. But not any more, at least not if the system in question runs Windows (or macOS).

The primary reason I’ve stopped offering tech support for Windows and macOS is simple: they are closed, proprietary systems that take control away from users. Every time I fix a problem, I am reinforcing a system that actively works against the principles of software freedom and user autonomy. These operating systems are designed to restrict what users can do, push unnecessary updates, track their activities, and lock them into ecosystems they can’t easily leave. The last blog post of Microsoft about Windows 11 is a new proof of that, requiring an internet connection and a Microsoft account to use your computer.

Windows is notorious for breaking itself with updates, making a system sluggish or rendering essential hardware useless from one month to the next. macOS, while more stable in some ways, forces users into Apple's walled garden, limiting their choices and making even basic repairs a nightmare. By helping people fix these problems, I was merely patching a system that would continue to cause headaches, rather than encouraging them to look for real alternatives.

There is a better way. GNU/Linux and other free and open-source operating systems give users real control over their computers. Instead of endlessly troubleshooting problems caused by proprietary restrictions, I now encourage people to switch to systems that respect their freedom. If someone comes to me with an issue on Linux, I’m happy to help because I know we are working toward a sustainable solution rather than fighting against a corporation’s interests.

I am not abandoning my friends and family. I still want to help, but in a way that actually benefits them in the long run. If they are willing to move away from Windows or macOS, I will gladly assist with the transition, recommend distributions, and help them learn how to use a free system. But if they choose to remain locked into proprietary software, they will have to rely on someone else or a professional support. I don't force them to change, I'm just not the good person for these systems I don't use myself for two decades. I switched my personal computer with Ubuntu 5.04 (released on April 8, 2005)

This decision wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Time and again, I saw how much effort went into fixing problems that shouldn’t have existed in the first place. Now, instead of wasting time on broken systems, I put my energy into supporting a future where users have real control over their technology.

If you’re frustrated with your computer’s constant issues, maybe it’s time to consider an alternative. And if you need help making the switch, many Linux users are ready to help you.

And you, using GNU/Linux system, are you always helping on Windows systems ?