The "End Of 10" project has just launched with the goal of saving hundreds of millions of older computers running Windows 10 from becoming obsolete this October. Rather than forcing users to buy new devices to upgrade to Windows 11 as Microsoft would like, the project presents Linux as a free, secure, and environmentally friendly alternative.
By one estimate, around 240 million computers will become obsolete when Windows 10 reaches the end of its life on October 14, 2025. Although Windows 10 is still more popular than Windows 11, Microsoft has decided to stop updating most Windows 10 devices after that date. That poses a major challenge for people whose computers don't meet the strict hardware requirements of Windows 11.
Why "End Of 10" Is a Necessary Option for Windows 10 Users
The newly created "End Of 10" website offers simple instructions for installing Linux and explains the advantages of this open-source operating system over Windows. The project mainly targets Windows 10 users whose PCs aren't eligible to upgrade to Windows 11 because of hardware limits.
Windows 11 supports only 8th-generation Intel and AMD Ryzen 2000 processors or newer, which cuts off most systems made before 2017. However, "End Of 10" argues that many computers built as far back as 2010 are still perfectly usable. That leaves PC repair shops and secondhand stores weighing whether to recycle older machines, keep distributing increasingly vulnerable Windows 10 systems, or switch to Linux, a safe option that most users aren't familiar with.
While Microsoft keeps sending emails and using other tactics to push Windows 11 through sales of new PCs (especially Copilot+ PCs), "End Of 10" encourages users to move to Linux. The site highlights several advantages, focusing on cost savings and better control over software.
Linux supports many older PCs that don't receive Windows 11 updates, so users often don't need to upgrade their hardware. The operating system is completely free to download, compared with the $15 price (on sale) for Windows 11 Pro. Continuing to use an older machine also helps cut emissions, since most of a PC's lifetime carbon footprint comes from manufacturing.
Key Benefits of Switching From Windows 10 to Linux
Beyond saving money, Linux offers users several other benefits. It can offer better security because it isn't controlled by a corporation that tracks user behavior. Linux is also targeted by malware less often, since most cyberattacks aim at other operating systems. Finally, experienced users get full control over their computers.
"End Of 10" lists repair shops around the world that help new users switch to Linux. The current list is small, made up mostly of locations in Europe, with only one company based in the United States. Still, other shops and organizations willing to help are welcome to add their contact details to the list. "End Of 10" also provides information on upcoming Linux workshops in various countries.
The site also offers a quick DIY installation guide. While some programs popular on Windows and macOS require alternatives on Linux, people who mostly use a web browser probably won't notice a significant difference after switching from Windows.
The "End Of 10" project highlights five compelling reasons to upgrade an old computer to Linux:
- Far cheaper than buying a new computer
- No ads, no spyware
- Protects the environment by reducing e-waste
- Free support from the community
- Full control over your computer
The "End Of 10" website is backed by the KDE community and provides guidance and information for Windows 10 users who want to move to Linux. The project states that Linux is free and has no ads or spyware. Another key point is the environmental impact: installing Linux on older hardware reduces e-waste and the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new computers.
Summary: "End Of 10" is working to turn the challenge of Windows 10 reaching end of support into a chance to introduce Linux to more users. It's still unclear whether the coming end of Windows 10 will push users away from Microsoft. Although more than half of Windows devices still run Windows 10 according to StatCounter, Windows 11 adoption has risen significantly in recent months and could soon overtake the older operating system. Still, with 240 million computers facing obsolescence, Linux is becoming an appealing, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative.
