Linux Conversions in Prestwich & Manchester

Is your Windows PC running slow? Tired of Microsoft's bloatware and endless annoying updates? I can convert your laptop or desktop to Linux and give it new life.

Based in Prestwich, I travel across Greater Manchester helping people escape Windows frustrations with fast, reliable Linux installations.

Why Switch to Linux?

Most people come to me because their Windows machine has "gone slow" - usually because Windows is bloated software that struggles on budget PCs and older hardware, or because resource-heavy drivers from printers and scanners are constantly running in the background hogging CPU. Lately I'm also seeing people frustrated that Windows 11 won't run on their perfectly good but "unsupported" machine, plus growing privacy concerns about Microsoft's data collection and ads.

Linux is people-centred rather than profit-centred. It's faster, more straightforward, and doesn't treat you like a product to monetise.

Success Stories

I've breathed new life into machines that Windows had written off. One friend's 10+ year old media center PC was gathering dust until I installed Ubuntu - now it's perfect for emails and web browsing and has been running happily for years. I helped a parish council office migration by switching them to Ubuntu with Nextcloud backups, saving them ongoing Microsoft licensing costs. I've also done web server conversions for local organisations like Blue Pits, migrating them from expensive Windows hosting to Linux static sites and saving them £25+ monthly in hosting costs.

What I Can Help With

For laptop and desktop conversions, I typically do full Windows replacement with Ubuntu (recommended for beginners), handle data migration from whatever software you're currently using, and check hardware compatibility with advice on printer/scanner support. My turnaround is quick - usually 1-2 days maximum.

I also offer advanced Linux services like NixOS installations for technically adventurous users (I use it myself - see my blog), web server migrations from Windows to Linux hosting, and dual-boot setups (though I recommend full conversion where possible). I'm happy to help with custom configurations and ongoing support.

I collect and deliver throughout North Manchester - Prestwich, Bury, Whitefield, Radcliffe, and across the wider Manchester area. There's need to travel to me unless you're outside the region.

The Conversion Process

My process is straightforward: I start with data backup to preserve all your documents, photos, and important files, then do the Ubuntu installation as a complete Windows replacement with the latest Long Term Support version. Next comes software setup where I install free alternatives to your existing programs and Firefox with ad-blocking built in. I follow up with hardware testing to ensure everything works properly before handover, and finish with basic training to show you the essentials so you can get started confidently.

Honest Hardware Advice

Some older peripherals only work with Windows - if that's your situation, I'll help you find better, universally-compatible alternatives. Companies that make Windows-only drivers are usually rubbish anyway.

For unsupported hardware, I can recommend replacement options that work better with Linux and are often higher quality and more user-focused.

Flexible Service & Pricing

I charge my standard hourly rate with no packages or upselling. Need something specific? Want to learn about command line usage or server administration? I'm happy to figure out documentation together - my years of Linux experience make tackling new challenges straightforward.

If you're running a charity, co-operative, or sustainable business, you get 50% off my rates.

Ready to ditch Windows frustration? Contact me to discuss your Linux conversion.