As the digital landscape shifts, many users find themselves grappling with the impending end of support for Windows 10. Microsoft is slated to discontinue support for this operating system on October 14, 2025. It's a sobering prospect for what may now feel like an outdated PC. The staggering statistic reveals that millions of computers could end up rendered useless, really makes you think. According to Canalys Insights, as many as 240 million Windows 10 PCs are projected to face obscurity with many unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware restrictions. Even worse, organizations could see that number rise to nearly 400 million when considering enterprise workstations unable to make the jump due to a lack of required hardware, specifically CPUs and Trusted Platform Modules (TPM). However, simply tossing these machines away would embody a tragedy considering their potential utility. Here are five viable alternatives you can consider to extend the life of your aging PC instead of sending it to electronic waste.
1. Force Windows 11 on Your Windows 10 PC
If you're tech-savvy and willing to take some risks, you could attempt to install Windows 11 on your Windows 10 PC. Keep in mind that doing this comes with no support from Microsoft due to compatibility issues. A tool called Rufus can streamline this process. Rufus is an open-source program that allows you to ignore the Windows 11 system checks by creating a bootable USB drive. While forcing the installation might lead to unpredictable performance or, in the worst-case scenario, could "brick" your device, the risk could be worth it if you are otherwise intending to retire the machine.
2. Install Linux
For many, the thought of switching operating systems evokes anxiety. Nevertheless, moving to Linux could be one of the most productive moves. Don't let preconceived notions that Linux is "hard" deter you; the reality is that distributions like Ubuntu are user-friendly and accessible for anyone, even those with minimal technical expertise. Running Linux means you won't have to sacrifice usage on older machines. Even systems that came pre-installed with Windows XP can still run cutting-edge versions of Linux, keeping them functional and secure. Further, Linux is constantly updated and thrives even on hardware that may be deemed obsolete by Windows standards. The transition not only enhances security, which is especially vital post-support, but also prolongs your device's life without additional costs.
3. Switch to ChromeOS
For users who are committed to web-based applications, ChromeOS offers a viable alternative. ChromeOS Flex is a lightweight OS that can be installed on a variety of older computer models. The prerequisites are simple: any PC that has a 64-bit processor with a minimum of 4GB of RAM and 16GB of storage can seamlessly transition to ChromeOS. Installing ChromeOS Flex is straightforward; users have reported completing the process in about 30 minutes. The interface is reminiscent of traditional operating systems, and for most web-based tasks, you'll hardly miss the windows environment. Moreover, if you have any crucial Windows applications, cloud services like Cameyo now let you run legacy apps on a Chromebook, replacing their reliance on standalone systems entirely.
4. Pay for Windows 10 Extended Support
For businesses or organizations that may need to maintain their systems for a bit longer or have specific compliance requirements, purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESUs) from Microsoft could be an option. Although this is not ideal for consumers who seek long-term happiness, Microsoft has provided structured pricing for its service. The ESUs will run approximately $61 in Year 1, doubling each year after that. This leads to a total of about $244 per device across three years. However, consider that the updates provided cover security patches only, and you won’t receive any new features. If your case truly necessitates sticking with Windows 10, this is a temporary solution, but keep in mind that support offerings can be limited.
5. Try Alternative Security Patching
Another emerging player providing solutions after the end of Windows 10 support is a company called 0Patch. This business specializes in supplying security patches for out-of-service operating systems. For approximately $25 a year, you may receive customized patches that keep your old OS secure, extending its usable life without requiring a complete overhaul to a new system.
Ignore It and Keep Running Windows 10
While this might feel like an easy route, running an unsupported system, especially one connected to the internet, leaves you vulnerable to security threats. If you feel your Windows 10 is truly retired, this may require caution as neglecting updates could lead to machine exploitation or malware attacks.
Conclusion
It is crucial that Windows users not succumb to the urge to trash their old machines. The options available to keep these machines running beyond the 2025 cutoff are both practical and cost-effective, allowing individuals to maintain productivity without investing in a brand-new system. With the aid of Linux, ChromeOS, or electing to pursue minimal support options, wrapping things up does not have to mean letting go; instead, creativity and adaptability can transform your outdated systems into productive tools for the future. The digital landscape is expansive, and with the right tools and vision, your aging PCs can continue to contribute long after they were deemed outdated by traditional metrics.
This article summarizes insights from ZDNet, which elaborates on five ways to pivot from Windows 10 before Microsoft's end-of-support date: source.