Zorin OS Guide

Overview

Zorin OS was founded in 2008 by Artyom Zorin, making it easy for Windows and macOS users to transition to Linux without a steep learning curve.

Quick Facts

Based On	Ubuntu LTS
Package Manager	APT / Flatpak / Snap
Default Desktop	Zorin Desktop (GNOME-based)
Release Cycle	Following Ubuntu LTS
Support Period	Follows Ubuntu LTS
Init System	systemd

Who Should Use Zorin OS?

Windows users - Familiar interface and workflow
Linux beginners - Easy transition experience
Businesses - Deploy Linux without retraining
Schools - Educational licensing and support
Windows app users - Built-in Wine and PlayOnLinux

Tip

Zorin OS offers "Zorin Appearance" to switch between Windows 11, Windows Classic, macOS, and GNOME layouts with a few clicks.

Installation

Zorin OS uses a simple graphical installer:

Download from zorin.com (Core is free, Pro is paid)
Create bootable USB with Etcher or Rufus
Boot into live environment
Click Install Zorin OS
Follow the guided installation wizard

bash

# Verify your download
sha256sum Zorin-OS-17.1-Core-64-bit.iso

# Compare with checksum from zorin.com

Package Management

Zorin OS uses the Software store and supports multiple package formats:

bash

# Update system
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

# Install via APT
sudo apt install package-name

# Flatpak (enabled by default)
flatpak install flathub app-name

# Snap support
sudo snap install app-name

# Run Windows apps (via Wine)
wine application.exe

# Install PlayOnLinux for Windows apps
sudo apt install playonlinux

Info

Zorin OS includes Wine and PlayOnLinux pre-installed for running Windows applications. The Software store shows Windows apps you can install directly.

Key Features

Zorin Appearance

Switch desktop layouts instantly. Choose Windows 11, Windows Classic, macOS, or GNOME layouts based on your preference.

Zorin Connect

Link your Android phone to your PC. Share files, sync notifications, send SMS, and control media playback.

Windows App Support

Install and run many Windows applications through Wine integration in the Software store.

Touch Support

Excellent touchscreen support with gestures, making it great for 2-in-1 devices.

Editions

Zorin OS Editions

Core	Free, essential desktop experience
Pro	Paid, premium layouts and features
Education	For schools with educational software
Lite	Xfce desktop for older computers

Pro vs Core

Pro includes macOS layout, additional desktop layouts, professional creative apps, and installation support. Core is fully functional and free.

FAQ

Is Zorin OS really like Windows?

The interface can look very similar to Windows, but it's still Linux underneath. Most Windows applications won't run natively, but many work through Wine.

Should I buy Zorin Pro?

Core is excellent for most users. Pro supports the project and includes extra features like macOS layout and professional apps.

Can I upgrade from Core to Pro?

Yes, you can purchase Pro and upgrade without reinstalling. The upgrade adds Pro-exclusive features to your existing installation.

Summary

Zorin OS is the ideal choice for Windows users transitioning to Linux. Key takeaways:

Windows-like interface with multiple layout options
Built-in Windows application support via Wine
Zorin Connect for Android phone integration
Free Core edition with optional Pro features
Based on Ubuntu LTS for stability