As the countdown to October 14, 2025 begins, a significant dilemma faces millions of Windows 10 users worldwide: Microsoft will soon cease issuing updates, including security patches, for its decade-old operating system. This concrete deadline marks not just a technical shift, but a socioeconomic crossroads for both individuals and organizations tethered to aging hardware. Microsoft’s message is loud and clear—upgrade to Windows 11 or invest in devices primed for the new Copilot+ AI features. But a burgeoning grassroots campaign known as "End of 10" offers a radical alternative: why not switch to Linux instead of dumping your still-functional PC?
Microsoft maintains a predictable cadence for sunsetting older operating systems, and Windows 10’s end-of-support date has been set in stone for over a year. From October 14, 2025, there will be no more feature enhancements, security fixes, or technical help. Traditionally, this scenario has played out in favor of the software giant’s business model—users either purchase new licenses or migrate to newer hardware capable of running the latest OS. Microsoft’s Windows 11, heavily tied to modern CPUs, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and increasingly AI-driven hardware requirements, essentially sidelines millions of PCs that are in perfect working order but lack key specifications.
According to expert analysis from Canalys, some 240 million computers currently running Windows 10 do not meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11. In practical terms, that’s a vast pool of laptops and desktops—many still sufficiently powerful for daily tasks—facing forced obsolescence under Microsoft’s guidelines.
Linux—free, open source, and engineered to run on a wide range of legacy hardware—offers a lifeline. The End of 10 initiative harnesses a well-known set of arguments in favor of the open source operating system:
However, it’s worth noting that, as of early May, the majority of the campaign’s listed support options are in Germany, with a handful scattered across other European countries. This concentration of resources opens questions about accessibility for users in other regions, especially North America, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, where Linux advocacy and hands-on technical support may lack similar structure.
Nevertheless, the "End of 10" movement doesn’t dictate a single Linux flavor, instead suggesting newcomers “Search for Linux distributions for beginners.” This agnostic approach demonstrates respect for user choice yet may also present decision paralysis for those unfamiliar with the landscape. Should users choose Ubuntu for its ubiquity? Linux Mint for its Windows-like feel? Or perhaps KDE Neon to showcase the organization’s own desktop environment? There’s no perfect answer, but all are tailored for easy installation, frequent updates, and broad driver support.
Upgrading an old PC to meet these specs involves a significant expenditure—often $500 or more—even for a modest laptop. In contrast, Linux can breathe new life into mid-2010s computers, Chromebooks, and even some devices from the Windows 7 era, with distributions engineered for performance on limited hardware.
In tough economic times, it’s hard to argue against free software that can sidestep a four-figure hardware upgrade bill.
Linux, by comparison, benefits from:
While these grey-market solutions may give users a brief reprieve, they do little to address the original problem of planned obsolescence, e-waste, and the escalating costs of software licensing.
Initiatives similar to End of 10 have provided refurbished laptops to students, refugees, and the unemployed, all running modifiable and secure open source operating systems. This not only reduces waste but democratizes technology access, putting usable PCs into the hands of people who need them most.
Key strengths of Linux migration include:
For Windows 10 users staring down the obsolescence of their devices, Linux may not be perfect, but it’s never been easier or more sensible to try. With community support, mature beginner-friendly distributions, and an ethos of digital autonomy, Linux is poised to win new converts—especially if the industry’s answer to legacy hardware is simply to throw it away.
Ultimately, the End of 10 movement highlights a vital truth for the era of planned obsolescence: keeping your existing PC running—securely, privately, and for as long as possible—might just be the most powerful technology upgrade of all.
Source: Tom's Hardware Windows 10 support is ending — but End of 10 wants you to switch to Linux
Windows 10 End-of-Life: A Looming Reality
Microsoft maintains a predictable cadence for sunsetting older operating systems, and Windows 10’s end-of-support date has been set in stone for over a year. From October 14, 2025, there will be no more feature enhancements, security fixes, or technical help. Traditionally, this scenario has played out in favor of the software giant’s business model—users either purchase new licenses or migrate to newer hardware capable of running the latest OS. Microsoft’s Windows 11, heavily tied to modern CPUs, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and increasingly AI-driven hardware requirements, essentially sidelines millions of PCs that are in perfect working order but lack key specifications.According to expert analysis from Canalys, some 240 million computers currently running Windows 10 do not meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11. In practical terms, that’s a vast pool of laptops and desktops—many still sufficiently powerful for daily tasks—facing forced obsolescence under Microsoft’s guidelines.
The Case Against E-Waste — and for Linux
“End of 10,” a coalition of Linux advocates and contributors (including representatives from the influential KDE project), is sounding the alarm about the environmental impact of mass hardware retirement. Their premise is straightforward: keeping devices in use for longer is among the most effective ways to curtail carbon emissions and combat e-waste. It’s not just feel-good idealism; the United Nations’ Global E-waste Monitor notes that only about 17% of global e-waste is formally recycled, with the remainder either ending up in landfills or being informally processed, often with dire environmental and human health consequences.Linux—free, open source, and engineered to run on a wide range of legacy hardware—offers a lifeline. The End of 10 initiative harnesses a well-known set of arguments in favor of the open source operating system:
- No forced upgrades: Many modern Linux distributions support older hardware far longer than Microsoft’s Windows OSes.
- Privacy-oriented: Linux distros are lauded for minimal telemetry and lack of intrusive system advertisements.
- Community-centric support: A sprawling international community assists with installation, troubleshooting, and software selection.
- Free and open source: There are no licensing or per-device fees for home users.
Who is the "End of 10" Movement?
"End of 10" isn't a faceless internet drive, but a loosely organized effort drawing together notable Linux contributors and members from influential desktop environments like KDE. While not as resourced as Microsoft’s global marketing machine, "End of 10" has gained traction, particularly in Europe. The campaign’s website aggregates a list of independent repair shops, volunteer-run tech collectives, and pop-up events committed to helping users transition to Linux—a direct counter to corporate “planned obsolescence.”However, it’s worth noting that, as of early May, the majority of the campaign’s listed support options are in Germany, with a handful scattered across other European countries. This concentration of resources opens questions about accessibility for users in other regions, especially North America, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, where Linux advocacy and hands-on technical support may lack similar structure.
Linux for Windows Refugees: Selling Points and Hurdles
Linux has matured remarkably over the past two decades. Installation routines, hardware detection, and bundled application suites place user-friendliness at the forefront for popular “beginner” distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora Workstation. Most modern Linux desktops now rival or even surpass Windows 10 in core day-to-day use cases: web browsing, email, office productivity, and multimedia playback.Nevertheless, the "End of 10" movement doesn’t dictate a single Linux flavor, instead suggesting newcomers “Search for Linux distributions for beginners.” This agnostic approach demonstrates respect for user choice yet may also present decision paralysis for those unfamiliar with the landscape. Should users choose Ubuntu for its ubiquity? Linux Mint for its Windows-like feel? Or perhaps KDE Neon to showcase the organization’s own desktop environment? There’s no perfect answer, but all are tailored for easy installation, frequent updates, and broad driver support.
Real-World Obstacles
Yet switching to Linux isn’t without hurdles:- App compatibility: Some specialized Windows software—especially niche business tools and high-end games—may not run natively on Linux. Emulation layers like Wine and virtualization offer workarounds, but these introduce complexity.
- Peripherals and driver support: While support for printers, Wi-Fi cards, and graphics adapters has improved dramatically, compatibility blind spots remain, especially for very new or very obscure hardware.
- Learning curve: Users accustomed to Windows’ way of doing things may face an initial period of adjustment. Tasks like installing new apps or using the terminal can seem foreign.
- Limited in-person support: As noted above, hands-on assistance is location-dependent, though online forums and help communities are robust and welcoming.
Economics: Windows 11 vs. Linux Upgrade
Transitioning to Windows 11 is, for many users, a non-starter unless they buy new hardware. Microsoft requires:- For Windows 11 mainstream support: Intel 8th Gen Core (or newer), AMD Ryzen 2000 (or newer), and select Qualcomm chips.
- For “Copilot+” PC AI features: Intel Core Ultra 200V, AMD Ryzen AI 300, Qualcomm Snapdragon X series, plus a minimum of 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
Upgrading an old PC to meet these specs involves a significant expenditure—often $500 or more—even for a modest laptop. In contrast, Linux can breathe new life into mid-2010s computers, Chromebooks, and even some devices from the Windows 7 era, with distributions engineered for performance on limited hardware.
In tough economic times, it’s hard to argue against free software that can sidestep a four-figure hardware upgrade bill.
Security and Support: Does Linux Hold Up?
The end of security patches for Windows 10 introduces a dangerous new world for its remaining users. Unpatched systems are prime targets for malware campaigns and criminal exploitation, particularly after Microsoft’s attention shifts totally to Windows 11 and beyond.Linux, by comparison, benefits from:
- Rolling security updates: The open source development model means vulnerabilities are often patched quickly, sometimes within hours of disclosure.
- Decentralized oversight: With so many distributions and independent maintainers, there’s no single point of failure.
- Community-driven transparency: Open source code allows anyone—individuals, universities, businesses—to audit and improve security.
Windows 10 End-of-Support: The Grey Market of Unofficial Solutions
It’s worth noting that the End of 10 campaign is not the only workaround for obsolete hardware. The internet abounds with unofficial scripts and tools designed to bypass Microsoft’s hardware checks, allowing Windows 11 to run on technically unsupported PCs. These methods, while popular among enthusiast circles, carry their own risks: Microsoft can withhold updates, system stability is not guaranteed, and future compatibility is always in question.While these grey-market solutions may give users a brief reprieve, they do little to address the original problem of planned obsolescence, e-waste, and the escalating costs of software licensing.
Digital Inclusion: The Social Dimension
End of 10’s approach also brings to light a broader issue: digital equity. When proprietary software makers tie their latest versions to expensive hardware, economically disadvantaged users and communities stand to lose the most. Schools, charities, and non-profits working with limited budgets have embraced Linux to repurpose older computers that would otherwise be discarded.Initiatives similar to End of 10 have provided refurbished laptops to students, refugees, and the unemployed, all running modifiable and secure open source operating systems. This not only reduces waste but democratizes technology access, putting usable PCs into the hands of people who need them most.
Linux: Not a Panacea, but a Practical Alternative
Critical analysis shows that while Linux is not a silver bullet for all users or use cases, it solves a crucial problem at a crucial time. The open source ecosystem, long the preserve of hobbyists and professionals, now offers a credible, sustainable answer to the planned obsolescence baked into the proprietary operating system cycle.Key strengths of Linux migration include:
- Sustainability: Extends device lifespan, curtailing e-waste.
- Community ethos: Volunteers and non-profits fill in the support blanks.
- Financial accessibility: Zero software licensing fees.
- Privacy and autonomy: Data stays local and outside of large ad networks.
- Niche software compatibility: Some users will encounter roadblocks with specialized programs or peripherals.
- User transition: The move from Windows to Linux, especially for those averse to change, can introduce friction.
- Support gaps: While Europe is well-served, other world regions—a key focus for digital inclusion—lag in accessible, in-person Linux help.
Conclusion: The Windows 10 Endgame and a Chance for Change
Microsoft’s decision to end Windows 10 support represents more than just an upgrade decision—it’s a flashpoint about the sustainability, economics, and ethics of how we use technology. End of 10’s rallying cry is not unprecedented, but it is timely, blending decades-old Linux advocacy with urgent environmental and equity concerns.For Windows 10 users staring down the obsolescence of their devices, Linux may not be perfect, but it’s never been easier or more sensible to try. With community support, mature beginner-friendly distributions, and an ethos of digital autonomy, Linux is poised to win new converts—especially if the industry’s answer to legacy hardware is simply to throw it away.
Ultimately, the End of 10 movement highlights a vital truth for the era of planned obsolescence: keeping your existing PC running—securely, privately, and for as long as possible—might just be the most powerful technology upgrade of all.
Source: Tom's Hardware Windows 10 support is ending — but End of 10 wants you to switch to Linux
