Migration Guide

How to Run Windows Apps on Linux

There is no single path for Windows apps on Linux. The right answer depends on whether the software already has a native Linux client, can be replaced by a browser workflow, tolerates Wine, or still demands a Windows VM.

Check your own setup

Add the apps and games you depend on to get a personalised migration report.

The compatibility stack

Native Linux and web versions are the cleanest paths. Wine comes next when the app is lightweight or community-tested. Full VMs are the fallback for Office macros, Windows-only IDE features, and niche business software.

Where people get stuck

Users often assume that one blocked app means Linux is impossible. In practice, many people end up with a mixed strategy: native apps for communications, browser tools for office work, and one small Windows VM for the holdouts.

FAQ

Is Wine enough for most people?

No. Wine helps in specific cases, but many mainstream users rely more on native clients, browser apps, and a small VM for the remaining gaps.

Which apps should I check first?

Check Office, Adobe, accounting, CAD, collaboration, and the one application that would force you back to Windows if it failed.

Related Paths

References

  1. Flathub
  2. WineHQ AppDB
  3. Microsoft Teams progressive web app now available on Linux
  4. Adobe Creative Cloud on Linux via community Wine patches