Learn which PC operating systems support Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024, including Windows, Linux, SteamOS and macOS limitations.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 run natively on 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs. Neither has a native version for Windows 7, Windows 8, Linux, SteamOS or macOS. Compatibility layers, dual-boot Windows and cloud streaming are workarounds rather than officially supported PC operating systems.
Microsoft Flight Simulator operating-system compatibility
| Operating system | MSFS 2020 | MSFS 2024 | Support status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 11 64-bit | Yes | Yes | Native and supported |
| Windows 10 64-bit | Yes | Yes | Native; use an updated installation |
| Windows 8.1 or older | No | No | Unsupported |
| Linux or SteamOS | No native version | No native version | Unofficial compatibility methods only |
| macOS | No native version | No native version | Windows or streaming workaround required |
Both editions target 64-bit x64 Windows; a 32-bit Windows installation cannot run them. Windows on ARM is not the normal supported configuration either. Its ability to emulate x64 software does not guarantee compatible graphics drivers, controllers or simulator performance.
Having a supported operating system is only the first requirement. The processor, dedicated graphics hardware, memory, storage and internet connection must also be suitable, as covered in our full breakdown of Microsoft Flight Simulator PC requirements.
Do MSFS 2020 and 2024 support the same Windows versions?
At the broad operating-system level, both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024 support 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11. MSFS 2024 is generally more demanding, so a PC that can install it is not necessarily powerful enough to run it well.
The installation channel does not expand OS compatibility. The Microsoft Store/Xbox app and Steam releases are Windows applications; buying through Steam does not create a Linux or macOS edition. Store installations also depend on functioning Microsoft Store and Gaming Services components, while both channels require the relevant Microsoft account services.
Windows 11 is compatible with both simulators, although hardware and driver support still matter. Our Windows 11 flight-simulator compatibility guide covers MSFS alongside other major simulators.
Can Microsoft Flight Simulator run on Linux or SteamOS?
Microsoft Flight Simulator has no native Linux or SteamOS build. Proton or Wine-based configurations may work on some systems, but launcher changes, updates, graphics drivers, peripherals and add-ons can break an otherwise working setup.
We would not choose Linux for a machine intended primarily for MSFS, especially when using specialist hardware such as multiple displays, head tracking, VR equipment or manufacturer-specific control software. Our Linux and Ubuntu workaround guide explains the practical limitations.
Can Microsoft Flight Simulator run on a Mac?
There is no native macOS version of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or 2024. A supported Intel Mac may be able to boot into 64-bit Windows through Boot Camp, but it must still meet the simulator's graphics and hardware requirements.
Apple silicon Macs cannot use Boot Camp to install x64 Windows. Virtualised Windows on ARM is not a supported substitute for a gaming PC and may fail because of graphics, driver or peripheral limitations. Streaming is usually the simpler Mac option, though it depends on service availability, connection quality and controller support; our guide to running or streaming MSFS on a Mac compares those routes.
Which operating system should you choose for MSFS?
- For a new simulator PC: choose 64-bit Windows 11 with supported graphics drivers.
- For an existing Windows 10 PC: both editions can run if Windows is updated and the hardware meets the relevant requirements.
- For Linux, SteamOS or macOS: use streaming for casual controller-based flying, or install the simulator on a separate x64 Windows PC when you need local add-ons and flight controls.
A common mistake is checking only the Windows name. Confirm the system is 64-bit, the GPU has a proper Windows driver, enough storage is available, and Windows updates and account services are functioning before downloading the simulator.