I Built VeltOS: A Debian 13-Based Linux Distribution Inspired by Windows 11

Ahmet Furkan DEMIR — Sun, 08 Nov 2026 09:28:37 +0000

I Built VeltOS: A Debian 13-Based Linux Distribution Inspired by Windows 11
Hey DEV Community! 👋

I've been working on a personal open-source project called VeltOS, and I'm excited to introduce it to the community!
🚀 What is VeltOS?
VeltOS is a Linux distribution based on Debian 13, designed to provide a familiar, modern, and user-friendly desktop experience.

The main idea behind VeltOS is simple:

Bring the familiarity of the Windows desktop experience to the flexibility and freedom of Linux.

I wanted to build an operating system that combines a familiar desktop workflow with the power of the Linux ecosystem.
🎯 Why did I start this project?
Switching to Linux can sometimes feel unfamiliar, especially for users coming from Windows.

I started VeltOS to explore how a Linux distribution could offer:

A familiar desktop experience.
A modern and clean user interface.
An intuitive Start Menu and taskbar.
Useful desktop applications and system tools.
The flexibility and freedom of open-source software. 🛠️ What am I building? VeltOS is an ongoing project, and I'm continuously working on improving its desktop experience.

Some of the areas I'm focusing on include:

Desktop environment and visual consistency.
Taskbar and Start Menu experience.
Application discovery and management.
System settings and customization.
Integration of useful Linux applications.
AI-related desktop features. 🐧 Built on Debian 13 Rather than building everything from scratch, VeltOS uses Debian 13 as its foundation.

This provides a solid Linux base while allowing me to develop a distinct desktop experience on top of it.
💻 Open Source & Community
VeltOS is an open-source project, and contributions, suggestions, feedback, and ideas are welcome.

Whether you're a Linux enthusiast, developer, designer, or someone curious about alternative operating systems, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Explore the project:

🌐 Website: https://veltos.ahmetfurkandemir.com
💻 GitHub: https://github.com/AhmetFurkanDEMIR/VeltOS 🤝 I'd love your feedback! I'm especially interested in hearing from Linux users and developers:
What makes a Linux distribution feel intuitive?
What features do you expect from a modern desktop operating system?
Would you consider using a Debian-based desktop designed around a familiar Windows-like workflow? VeltOS is a journey, and this is just the beginning.

Thanks for checking it out! 🚀

Your PC. No Limits.

DEV Community: Ahmet Furkan DEMIR

I Built VeltOS: A Debian 13-Based Linux Distribution Inspired by Windows 11