Microsoft's Windows was the dominant desktop operating system (OS) worldwide as of March 2025, with a market share of around 72 percent. Apple’s Mac operating system has gained market share over the years, growing to command around a fifth of the market. Linux and Google's Chrome OS have retained small but stable market shares in recent years. Different versions of Microsoft Windows From its initial release in 1985, Microsoft Windows has gone through endless mutations. Notable versions include Windows 95, Windows XP, and Windows 7. Windows 11 is the newest addition to the family, being able to run on PCs, tablets and embedded devices. In 2022, approximately 65 million PCs were shipped with Windows operating systems installed. Apple’s Mac operating system With an equally long history, Apple’s Mac operating system (macOS, previously Mac OS X and OS X) has also evolved through numerous releases. The most recent version, macOS Ventura, is the nineteenth release of macOS. A older version of macOS, Catalina, is currently the most popular macOS, now run on 87.4 percent of Apple computers as of January 2023. macOS runs on Apple’s Mac computers, including the MacBook, which is Apple’s laptop PC product including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, and the iMac – Apple’s desktop computer.

Introduction

Linux Statistics: Linux, being an open-source operating system, has become a significant factor in computing. It serves as the energy source for everything from personal gadgets like mobile phones to enormous servers located within data centers. As we move toward 2024, demand for Linux remains on the steep rise, particularly in cloud computing, web hosting, and even personal computers. In other words, Linux has become more important as companies seek to cut down costs, boost their efficiency, and enhance security.

By 2024, about 45% of the global server operating system market will still be held by Linux due to its flexibility, security, and affordability. For instance, there has been a tremendous increase in the use of Linux for cloud computing. A lot of companies like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure use a number of their services based on servers running on Linux platforms.

This paper analyses some key Linux statistics related to the use of Linux through 2024, which includes but is not limited to the share market growth rate across different sectors' economic impact and the introduction of new distributions that are likely to determine its destiny as an OS.

 Introduction

Linux Statistics: Linux is an open-source operating system created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. It is known for being flexible, secure, and reliable. Linux is used in many areas, including personal computers, smartphones, servers, and supercomputers. In 2025, Linux continues to be important in modern technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and containerization.

Many organizations choose Linux because it is stable and performs well, especially for critical tasks. With a growing community of developers and innovations, Linux will stay a key part of future computing, from personal use to advanced AI data centers.

The share of Linux in the desktop operating system market across India was about 16.21 percent in the month of July 2024. This figure represents a significant increase in the market share of Linux since May 2023.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Linux Operating System Market size will be USD 19548.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.40% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 7819.28 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5864.46 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4496.09 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 977.41 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 390.96 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.1% from 2024 to 2031.
The enterprise held the highest Linux Operating System Market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Linux Operating System Market

Key Drivers for Linux Operating System Market

Increased Requests for Open-Source Products to Increase the Demand Globally

The Linux operating system market has experienced growth due to a growing need for open-source software systems of operations. Software for machines that permits individuals to access and modify the source material is referred to as a freely available operating system. Linux is an open-sourced platform that works effectively for personalized processing in desktop OS. Linux handles multiple threads and large quantities of programs. Consequently, the Linux operating systems industry is expanding due to the growing need for open-sourced operating systems.

The increase in the utilization of innovative technologies to Propel Market Growth

The Linux operating system market has witnessed steady growth, driven by an increase in the use of innovative technology. Breakthrough discoveries, innovations, or patterns in a variety of sectors that possess the ability to profoundly affect and change businesses, communities, and daily life are referred to as modern technologies. The Linux operating system is essential to the uptake and application of new technologies in many different fields. Linux is well-known for being freely available, flexible, and has excellent safety features. It offers a dependable and adaptable system that makes it easier to create and implement advanced technology. Consequently, the Linux operating system industry is being driven by an increase in the use of innovative technology.

Restraint Factor for the Linux Operating System Market

Inadequate knowledge to Limit the Sales

The expansion of the Linux operating system market is largely restricted by the absence of knowledge about software designed for operating systems among companies of all sizes, entrepreneurs, and regional organizations. The modest expenditure for information technology and storage services prevents small and medium-sized enterprises from making larger investments in the Linux operating system. This limits the ability for applications to evolve and impedes commercial expansion. To maintain their competitiveness, small and medium-sized enterprises must enhance their IT systems and recognize the value of managing data.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Linux Operating System Market

The Linux operating system market has witnessed growth due to rising demand for innovative technology. Key drivers include the increasing importance of security measures. However, the global pandemic caused the globe to come to an abrupt halt and had unanticipated and unclear impacts on households, organizations, means of subsistence, and industries. Because of the volatility of the market, businesses are implementing tactics to optimize profits by anticipating the degree of unpredictability. The restrictive policies' economic ramifications have significantly impacted Linux operating system sales. Frequent delays have hampered the business's expansion prospects for Linux operating systems in supply. Introduction of the Linux Operating System Market

Linux Operating System is a freely available operating system t...

Microsoft’s Windows is the most widely used computer operating system in the world, accounting for 69 percent share of the desktop, tablet, and console OS market in March 2025. Apple’s macOS ranks as the next most widely used operating system, while its iOS mobile operating system, the standard installation on all iPad devices, ranks fourth. Linux OS versions serve as the primary option for users who prefer open-source software and intend to avoid the influence of major OS developers. Operating Systems Operating systems serve as the underlying platforms which connect computer hardware and software. They provide users with the graphical interface through which they issue commands and perform tasks on electronic devices. Billions of people make use of these devices and their operating systems on a regular basis, meaning that the companies that develop these widely used technologies have a great deal of influence on the daily lives of internet users around the world. Although Microsoft Windows is the clear leader in terms of desktop operating systems, the company’s mobile device operating system failed to make a successful transition into the smartphone market, where Android and iOS are essentially the only two options.

The Linux Operating System Market size was valued at USD 15.52 USD billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 55.94 USD billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 20.1 % during the forecast period. The increasing adoption of Linux in data centers, cloud computing, and embedded systems drives the market growth. Linux is a Unix-like, open source and community-developed operating system (OS) for computers, servers, mainframes, mobile devices, and embedded devices. It is supported on almost every major computer platform, including x86, ARM and SPARC, making it one of the most widely supported operating systems. An operating system is the software that directly manages a system’s hardware and resources, like CPU, memory, and storage. Every version of the Linux OS manages hardware resources, launches and handles applications, and provides some form of user interface. The enormous community for developers and wide range of distributions means that a Linux version is available for almost any task, and Linux has penetrated many areas of computing. Recent developments include: In 2022, Canonical released Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, which included new features and security enhancements.

In 2021, Red Hat acquired StackRox to enhance its security offerings for Linux systems.

In 2020, Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Linux 2, a new Linux distribution optimized for AWS cloud environments.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Adoption of Operating System among Servers and Embedded Systems to Aid Growth. Potential restraints include: Intense Competition from Windows and Limited Adoption of Linux OS are Hampering Market Growth. Notable trends are: Growing Implementation of Touch-based and Voice-based Infotainment Systems to Increase Adoption of Intelligent Cars.

The size of the Linux Operating System Market was valued at USD 12.97 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 23.56 billion by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 8.9% during the forecast period. In terms of flexibility, as well as the open-source nature of Linux, there are increasing rates of deployment within industries such as IT and telecommunication, at the automotive and embedded levels. Linux is respected for its security, flexibility in terms of its operating environment, and stability. It is widely used in server environments, cloud computing, and bare-metal-to-mobile infrastructure Opensource has provided the model on which Linux is made, providing the end-user company with the chance to customize and optimize the operating system to suit the individual needs of the specific company, be it in the enterprise application arena where Linux is most used or in other domains where end-users use Linux. Recent developments include: In February 2023, Elektrobit and Canonical unveiled EB corbos Linux, an open-source Linux platform tailored specifically for automotive software. Based on Ubuntu, this innovative solution accelerates the development of electronic control units while ensuring compliance with automotive production processes., In February 2023, SAP SE forged a strategic partnership with Red Hat, Inc., aimed at supporting industries utilizing SAP for cloud transformation. This collaboration leverages Red Hat Enterprise Linux to provide SAP clients with a flexible and secure cloud environment, fostering intelligent business operations and more efficient workflows., In September 2022, SUSE Group joined forces with Amazon Web Services, Inc., to assist SAP customers in transitioning to the cloud seamlessly. This collaboration offers SAP solutions on the SUSE Linux operating system, ensuring a swift and reliable platform for the mission-critical migration of customers' data and applications., In May 2022, Google LLC invested in a Linux security initiative, focusing on enhancing the Linux operating system. The project aimed to create software enhancing smartphone security and internet connectivity, thereby contributing to a safer digital environment., In March 2022, cPanel LLC partnered with Ubuntu to introduce its cPanel & WHM version. This collaboration resulted in an open-source Linux distribution architecture that prioritizes security and stability, catering to the diverse needs of businesses and ensuring a reliable operating environment., . Key drivers for this market are: Open-Source Nature Cost-Effectiveness Security and Stability. Potential restraints include: Compatibility Issues Limited Software Availability. Notable trends are: Linux in Cloud and Edge Computing Containerization and DevOps.

Introduction

Ubuntu Statistics: Ubuntu has a great reputation as one of the most widely used Linux distributions due to its simplicity, reliability, and outstanding community support. Now, in 2024, this has never changed, as it is a choice for personal and professional use. It is versatile and able to run on everything from their desktop to cloud servers and devices on the IOT.

This article discusses the latest Ubuntu statistics, trends, and insights into what is happening in terms of its growth, usage, and market position in 2025.

In Brazil, in 2023, approximately 88 percent of desktop devices operated on Windows, and the remaining were shared between OS X (3.7 percent) and Linux (2.6 percent). Apple ranked second also in the mobile device operating system market, where it held a significantly lower market share compared to Android.

Android maintained its position as the leading mobile operating system worldwide in the first quarter of 2025 with a market share of about 71.88 percent. Android's closest rival, Apple's iOS, had a market share of approximately 27.65 percent during the same period. The leading mobile operating systems Both unveiled in 2007, Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS have evolved through incremental updates introducing new features and capabilities. The latest version of iOS, iOS 18, was released in September 2024, while the most recent Android iteration, Android 15, was made available in September 2023. A key difference between the two systems concerns hardware - iOS is only available on Apple devices, whereas Android ships with devices from a range of manufacturers such as Samsung, Google and OnePlus. In addition, Apple has had far greater success in bringing its users up to date. As of February 2024, 66 percent of iOS users had iOS 17 installed, while in the same month only 13 percent of Android users ran the latest version. The rise of the smartphone From around 2010, the touchscreen smartphone revolution had a major impact on sales of basic feature phones, as the sales of smartphones increased from 139 million units in 2008 to 1.39 billion units in 2023. In 2020, smartphone sales decreased to 1.38 billion units due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Apple, Samsung, and lately also Xiaomi, were the big winners in this shift towards smartphones, with BlackBerry and Nokia among those unable to capitalize.

Global Linux Operating System market size is expected to reach $18.73 billion by 2029 at 19.8%, the surge in demand for open-source solutions driving growth in the linux operating system market

Introduction

Operating System Statistics: ​Operating systems (OS) are integral to modern computing, facilitating user interaction with hardware across devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

As of February 2025, Android leads the global OS market with a 45.53% share, followed by Windows at 25.36%, and iOS at 18.25%. In the desktop segment, Windows maintains dominance with a 70.62% market share, while macOS holds 15.74%, and Linux accounts for 3.81%. The adoption of Windows 11 has been notable, capturing 31.63% of the Windows market by August 2024.

These statistics underscore the diverse landscape of operating systems and their pivotal role in shaping user experiences across various platforms.

Linux Operating System Market size was valued at USD 6.01 billion in 2021 and is poised to grow from USD 7.4 billion in 2022 to USD 38.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 22.9% in the forecast period (2023-2030).

The Linux operating system market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors. While precise market sizing requires proprietary data, a reasonable estimation based on industry reports and observed trends suggests a 2025 market value of approximately $20 billion USD, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% through 2033. This growth is fueled by several key drivers. The open-source nature of Linux fosters a collaborative development environment, resulting in continuous improvements, security updates, and adaptability to emerging technologies. Its inherent stability and reliability make it a preferred choice for critical infrastructure like data centers and embedded systems. Furthermore, the rising adoption of cloud computing and the increasing importance of DevOps practices significantly contribute to Linux's market expansion. The cost-effectiveness associated with Linux, particularly in comparison to proprietary alternatives, is another significant factor driving its adoption across small and large enterprises alike. The diverse applications of Linux across various industry segments further enhance its market prospects. Its presence in the server market is dominant, while its expansion into embedded systems, mobile devices, and high-performance computing is steadily gaining momentum. However, the market also faces certain restraints. The complexity involved in managing Linux systems can pose a challenge for users unfamiliar with command-line interfaces. The fragmentation within the Linux ecosystem, encompassing numerous distributions and variations, can also present complexities for interoperability and standardization. Despite these challenges, the overall market trajectory points towards sustained growth and a significant expansion in the coming years, fueled by ongoing innovation and increasing user demand.

The Server Operating System Market report segments the industry into By Component (Software, Service), By Type (Windows, Linux, UNIX, Other Types), By Virtualization (Virtual Server, Physical Server), By Deployment Mode (Cloud, On-premise), By Enterprise Size (Large Enterprises, and more), By Industry Vertical, and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Latin America, Middle East and Africa).

In 2019, the Windows operating system was used on 72.1 percent of servers worldwide, whilst the Linux operating system accounted for 13.6 percent of servers. Compared to 2018, both companies experienced an increase to their overall market share.

Introduction

Fedora Statistics: Fedora is a very popular operating system based on Linux, which is cutting-edge and has very good community support. However, at the end of December 2024, Fedora did not have much market penetration as far as web server deployment was concerned.

According to W3Techs, out of all the websites whose operating system is known, less than 0.1% use Fedora, while 55.2% of these websites are powered by Linux as a whole. This article will show the trends in Fedora statistics.

Linux Operating System Market Outlook

The global Linux Operating System market size was valued at approximately USD 13.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 28.1 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5%. The growth of the Linux Operating System market is driven by the increasing demand for open-source platforms, the flexibility and security offered by Linux OS, and the rapid adoption across various industry verticals. Organizations are increasingly leaning towards Linux due to its cost-effectiveness, robustness, and scalability. These factors collectively contribute to the burgeoning expansion of the Linux Operating System market globally.

One of the primary growth factors for the Linux Operating System market is the growing inclination towards open-source software. Unlike proprietary operating systems, Linux offers users the freedom to modify and distribute their own versions, which is highly appealing to developers and enterprises seeking customizable solutions. This open-source nature fosters innovation, enabling users to tailor the OS to meet specific needs, thereby driving its adoption across various sectors including tech giants and small businesses alike. Additionally, the absence of licensing fees makes Linux a cost-effective choice, particularly for startups and educational institutions operating with limited budgets.

Another significant growth driver is the increasing emphasis on security. Linux OS is renowned for its robust security features, making it a preferred choice for enterprises and government institutions where data protection is paramount. The modular architecture of Linux allows for better control over system components, and the open-source community actively contributes to identifying and patching vulnerabilities, resulting in a more secure operating environment. As cyber threats continue to escalate, the demand for secure operating systems like Linux is expected to rise, fueling market growth.

The flexibility and scalability offered by Linux Operating Systems are also critical factors propelling its market growth. Linux can run on virtually any hardware, from high-performance servers to embedded systems, which makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. This flexibility allows businesses to deploy Linux in diverse settings, from data centers to mobile devices, ensuring that their IT infrastructure can scale efficiently with their growth. Furthermore, the compatibility of Linux with cloud computing infrastructures enhances its appeal as businesses increasingly migrate to cloud-based environments.

In addition to its inherent security features, the Linux Operating System is increasingly being utilized in intranet environments where security is a top priority. Intranet Operating System Security is crucial for organizations that need to protect sensitive data and internal communications from external threats. Linux's open-source nature allows IT administrators to customize security protocols to fit the specific needs of their intranet systems. This flexibility ensures that organizations can implement robust security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, tailored to their unique requirements. As businesses continue to prioritize cybersecurity, the role of Linux in securing intranet systems is becoming more prominent, further driving its adoption in the corporate sector.

The regional outlook for the Linux Operating System market highlights significant growth opportunities across various geographies. North America is currently the largest market, driven by the presence of major technology companies and a strong emphasis on innovation and cybersecurity. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to rapid industrialization, increasing adoption of cloud services, and a growing number of tech startups. Europe also presents substantial growth potential, particularly in countries like Germany and the UK, where there is a strong focus on technological advancements and digital transformation initiatives.

Distribution Analysis

The distribution segment of the Linux Operating System market encompasses various distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, CentOS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, and others. Each distribution serves differen

Asia Pacific Linux Operating System Market USD 4496.09 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.4% from 2024 to 2031. Rising interest in automated is expected to aid the sales to USD 19448.1 million by 2031