I use both Linux and Windows. Windows Pro 11 on desktop and Linux on desktop and servers. I removed ads from "Search" using settings and see no other ads. Am I special or it is related to Pro vs Home?
Everybody on here like to think they are amazing power users but can't disable a single setting, that I'm pretty sure is part of the standard setup process, to get rid of ads. I've used a number of Windows 10/11 pc's and never seen any of the issues hn complains about regularly.
I doubt I'll go to Mac, I'm just not a fan, so looking at different linux options, even though I barely do any coding anymore.
Windows used to have bloatware and shareware, but I never felt it was in your face like it is now.
But it really is the volume of advertising and crap that has gone into Windows 11 which is why I've stayed on 10 and am avoiding upgrading.