Switch to Linux Reason #21: Keep your documents on your own drive by default

Why this matters now

A document saved at home should not require a cloud account to remain accessible. Defaults matter because most people never revisit them. Microsoft's Windows Backup workflow starts with a Microsoft account and stores backed-up information with that account. A convenient backup should be weighed against who controls the destination and recovery path (Windows Backup documentation).

What changes with Linux

A Linux home directory stores files locally, while optional sync clients can be added later. Open document formats make those files easier to carry between tools. LibreOffice documents native OpenDocument support alongside interoperability with common proprietary office formats. Open formats lower the cost of leaving a vendor, though complex documents should be tested for fidelity (LibreOffice technology and formats). Nextcloud documents file access, synchronization, sharing, versioning, and ownership transfer for servers users can choose. Self-hosting adds administration responsibility but makes the storage provider a choice (Nextcloud files and synchronization).

Make the move

Export cloud-only documents, verify local copies open, and create an independent backup. Confirm that your editor is saving where you expect.

A Linux installation does not erase data already collected or make every app private. Choose a maintained distribution, check its data practices, protect your accounts, and keep tested backups.

Take the power back