On the DVD

Article from Issue 295/2025

Author(s): Bruce Byfield

Zorin OS 17.3 Core and elementary OS 8.0 Stable

Zorin OS 17.3 Core

64-bit

Zorin is an Ubuntu-based distribution known for its chameleon-like mimicry of other popular desktops. With this release, it is promoting itself as a Windows 10 replacement for those unable to upgrade to Windows 11. Zorin bolsters this position by using Wine, together with a database to assist in running over 150 Windows applications.

Zorin 17.3 also replaces Firefox with Brave for its default browser for added security and uses Zorin Connect to improve connectivity, file sharing, and interoperability between computers and phones. Using Zorin Connect, users can not only share data between computers and phones but also control one device from another. For instance, incoming calls and texts on a phone can now be read from a connected computer.