Our Story
About Lindows
The Linux desktop that feels immediately familiar to Windows users — then and now.
The Origin
Where it all began.
Lindows began as one of the most ambitious desktop Linux projects of the early 2000s. Created by Michael Robertson and first released in 2001, its goal was simple: make Linux easy enough that anyone familiar with Microsoft Windows could use it without feeling intimidated.
Built on Debian Linux, Lindows focused on providing a familiar desktop experience while simplifying software installation through its innovative Click-N-Run (CNR) technology.
The name “Lindows” quickly attracted worldwide attention — not only because of its unique approach to desktop Linux, but also because it became the center of a high-profile trademark dispute with Microsoft.
After several years of legal battles, the two companies reached a settlement in 2004. As part of that agreement, Lindows was renamed Linspire, and development continued under the new name.
One of the final releases under the original branding was LindowsOS 4.5, after which the operating system continued its evolution as Linspire. Although Linspire would continue for several years, many longtime Linux users still remember the original Lindows name and its mission of making Linux approachable for everyday desktop users.
2001
Year Lindows was born
4.5
Last version under the Lindows name
20+
Years later, the spirit lives on
Bringing Lindows Back
More than two decades later, the spirit of Lindows lives on.
Lindows 5 is an independent community project inspired by the original vision: delivering a Linux desktop that feels immediately familiar to Windows users while embracing the stability, security, and flexibility of modern Linux.
Rather than simply recreating the past, Lindows 5 builds upon today’s technology. It is based on Debian 13 (Trixie), one of the world’s most respected Linux distributions, providing a modern, secure, and reliable foundation.
Every aspect of the desktop has been carefully designed to reduce the learning curve for users making the transition from Windows. From the layout of the desktop to the menu structure, themes, and bundled applications, Lindows aims to feel comfortable from the very first boot.
The objective is straightforward.
✓ Familiar for Windows users
✓ Fast and lightweight
✓ Stable and dependable
✓ Easy to install and use
✓ Compatible with modern hardware
✓ Powered by the strength of Debian
Why Version 5?
A new chapter inspired by the past.
The decision to begin at Version 5 is intentional. The original Lindows project concluded its journey under the Lindows name with version 4.5 before becoming Linspire.
Beginning this project as Lindows 5 recognizes that history while symbolically continuing the original numbering. It represents a new chapter inspired by the past, rather than a continuation of the original commercial product.
4.5
Lindows ends
→
Linspire
2004–2008
→
5
Lindows today
Looking Forward
Linux doesn't have to be complicated.
Whether you’re moving away from Windows, discovering Linux for the first time, or simply looking for a clean and reliable desktop operating system, Lindows provides a familiar experience without sacrificing the power and freedom of open-source software.