End of Windows 10 Support 2025: Explore Cost-Effective Linux & LibreOffice Alternatives

As Microsoft prepares to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, users face a pivotal decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or explore alternative operating systems. The Document Foundation (TDF), the organization behind LibreOffice, has recently highlighted the "real costs" associated with transitioning to Windows 11 and advocates for considering Linux and LibreOffice as viable alternatives.

The Impending Windows 10 End-of-Life​

Microsoft's announcement to cease support for Windows 10 means that, post-October 2025, the company will no longer provide:

• Security patches for new vulnerabilities, increasing exposure to cyber threats.
• Assistance with troubleshooting or resolving system issues.
• New features or improvements, leading to software obsolescence.

While extended support options are available, they come at a significant cost. For instance, the first year of extended support is priced at $61 per device, escalating to $244 by the third year. For organizations with thousands of devices, this can translate into millions of dollars in additional expenses. (insight.com)

The "Real Costs" of Upgrading to Windows 11​

TDF emphasizes that the transition to Windows 11 entails more than just financial outlays. The organization points out several concerns:

• Increased Dependence on Microsoft Services: Windows 11 integrates more deeply with Microsoft's cloud services, potentially limiting user autonomy.
• Mandatory Microsoft Accounts: The operating system encourages, and in some cases requires, the use of Microsoft accounts, raising privacy considerations.
• Hardware Obsolescence: Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements may render many existing PCs incompatible, necessitating costly hardware upgrades.

These factors contribute to what TDF describes as the "real costs" of upgrading, encompassing not only monetary expenses but also issues related to user control and data privacy.

Linux and LibreOffice: A Compelling Alternative​

In response to these challenges, TDF advocates for a shift towards Linux operating systems paired with LibreOffice. This combination offers several advantages:

• Cost Efficiency: Both Linux and LibreOffice are open-source and free to use, eliminating licensing fees.
• Enhanced Privacy and Security: Open-source software allows users to inspect and modify the code, reducing the risk of hidden vulnerabilities and data collection.
• Extended Hardware Lifespan: Linux distributions often have lower system requirements, enabling older hardware to remain functional and efficient.

TDF's campaign, dubbed "Endof10," encourages users to consider this transition as a means to regain control over their computing environments and avoid the pitfalls associated with proprietary software ecosystems.

Steps to Transition​

For those contemplating the move from Windows to Linux and LibreOffice, TDF recommends the following steps:

• Test the Waters: Install Linux and LibreOffice on a secondary partition or less critical system to familiarize yourself with the new environment.
• Assess Compatibility: Evaluate the compatibility of your current software and workflows with Linux and LibreOffice.
• Develop Documentation and Training: Create resources and training programs to facilitate the transition for all users.
• Seek Professional Assistance: Engage consultants certified by organizations like the Linux Professional Institute or TDF to guide the migration process.

TDF underscores the importance of initiating this transition promptly to ensure a smooth and timely migration before Windows 10 support concludes.

Broader Implications and Industry Trends​

The push towards open-source alternatives is not isolated. For example, the German state of Schleswig-Holstein has embarked on a plan to replace Microsoft Office with LibreOffice and transition 30,000 PCs from Windows to Linux. This move is driven by a desire for digital sovereignty and enhanced data security. (theregister.com)
Additionally, LibreOffice has seen a surge in downloads, nearing one million per week, as users seek to avoid subscription-based software models. This trend indicates a growing interest in open-source solutions that offer both functionality and freedom from vendor lock-in. (computerworld.com)

Conclusion​

As the end of Windows 10 support approaches, users and organizations are at a crossroads. While upgrading to Windows 11 is a straightforward path, it comes with associated costs and considerations. The Document Foundation's advocacy for Linux and LibreOffice presents a compelling alternative that prioritizes user control, cost savings, and long-term sustainability. By carefully evaluating their needs and resources, users can make informed decisions that align with their values and operational requirements.

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Source: Neowin 2025 finally the Year of Linux? LibreOffice explains "real costs" of Windows 11