AnduinOS: A GNOME-Based Linux Distro That Mimics the Windows Experience for a Smooth Transition

A New Bridge to Linux… with a GNOME Interface

In a previous article, we explored Winux, a distribution that offers a Windows 11 interface through the KDE Plasma environment. Today, we meet another distribution pursuing the same goal, but with a different philosophy and a different desktop environment: AnduinOS.

While Winux chooses a literal imitation of Windows using KDE, AnduinOS chooses to build a familiar experience using GNOME, with customizations that make it look and behave in a way a Windows user understands immediately. The idea is the same: reduce the transition shock, but the execution is different.

🔗 Official Website: anduinos.com

What Is AnduinOS?

AnduinOS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution developed by Aiursoft and licensed under GPL-v3. The current version is 2.0.4, released on June 30, 2026, and based on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, meaning support until April 2031.

The core feature the distribution promotes is: “Everything you can do on Ubuntu, you can do on AnduinOS.” This means full compatibility with .deb packages and Ubuntu repositories, with a more elegant and user-friendly interface for newcomers.

Why AnduinOS? The Stated Reasons

The distribution offers a set of advantages that make it attractive to users coming from Windows:

Out of the Box

The ISO size is remarkably small: only 2.38 GB. This allows for fast downloads, burning to USB, and installation in minutes. No complex configuration or additional setup is required.

Familiar Interface

GNOME 50, with customizations that bring it closer to Windows. The user finds a Start menu, taskbar, and organized settings, without needing to learn something new.

Privacy and Control

The distribution collects no user data. No tracking, no analytics, no targeting. The user is completely anonymous to the system. Root access is fully available.

Complete Ecosystem

It relies on Ubuntu repositories, meaning access to thousands of packages. Graphical applications are installed by default via Flatpak (since version 1.3), providing additional isolation and security.

Open Source and Free Forever

GPL-v3. You can review, modify, and redistribute the code. It is free, and it will remain free.

Modular Design

With Apkg, a transparent apt server, packages integrate with apt update and apt install without complexity. Flatpak remains for graphical interfaces.

Technical Specifications

Requirements

• 2 GHz processor (dual-core minimum, quad-core recommended)
• 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
• 25 GB storage
• UEFI with Secure Boot support (or BIOS)

Standout Features

No Snap

One of the most frequently mentioned points: AnduinOS does not come with Snap installed by default. This makes the system lighter, less resource-intensive, and more compatible with traditional packages.

NVIDIA Support

The distribution ships with built-in support for NVIDIA graphics cards, which is rare in GNOME distributions relying on Wayland. This means gamers and 3D design software users can use the distribution without complications.

Secure Boot

The kernel and drivers are signed, allowing it to work with Secure Boot without the complex MOK (Machine Owner Key) registration.

HDR and Wayland

Wayland is the default, and HDR support has been available since the first release. No fallback to X11.

Python Ready for AI

Python is pre-installed and integrated at the system level. Docker and native shells (Zsh, Bash, PowerShell) are ready. anduinos-why-ai can be installed with one command to get a local language model.

Editions: LTS vs Standard

AnduinOS offers two tracks:

Resolute Raccoon 2.0 (LTS)

• Supported until April 2031
• GNOME 50
• Ubuntu 26.04 packages
• Linux kernel 7.0
• Recommended for users who want stability and long-term support.

AnduinOS 2.0 Enterprise (Commercial)

• Custom branding
• Cluster management
• Rapid deployment
• 24/7 on-call support per contract
• Custom kiosk
• Private package repository

Will AnduinOS Contribute to More Linux Adoption?

Yes, and likely more than Winux, for several reasons:

First: The Ubuntu base. Users coming from Windows will find massive support online. Any problem they face, the solution is in Ubuntu forums. This reduces frustration.

Second: The small size. 2.38 GB is a very tempting size. The download is fast, and burning to USB is easy. This removes the “huge download” barrier.

Third: No Snap. Many users hate Snap for its slowness and resource consumption. AnduinOS responds to this complaint directly.

Fourth: Built-in NVIDIA support. This means NVIDIA card owners (who are many) will not face the usual driver issues.

Fifth: GPL-v3 and completely free. There is no “Freemium” model like Winux. No need to worry about upgrade notifications or paid features.

The Difference Between AnduinOS and Winux

Summary

AnduinOS is an ambitious distribution that offers a practical and beautiful solution for users who want to transition to Linux without sacrificing familiarity. It combines the power and stability of Ubuntu, the beauty of GNOME, a small size, NVIDIA support, and the absence of Snap. It may not mimic Windows literally like Winux does, but it offers a more secure, ethical, and transparent experience. If you are considering a transition from Windows, AnduinOS deserves to be at the top of your list.

Quick Links

AnduinOS Official Website

Previous Article: Winux — A Windows-Like Distro with a KDE Interface

Releases Page on GitHub

Published in the GNU/Linux section – Desktop Distributions