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In brief: An estimated 240 million PCs will become obsolete when Windows 10 reaches end-of-life status in October. Microsoft is begging impacted users to buy new devices (preferably Copilot+ PCs) to upgrade to Windows 11, but the “End of 10” project aims to use the opportunity to introduce more people to Linux.
A recently created website called “End of 10” offers simple instructions for installing Linux while explaining the open-source operating system’s advantages over Windows. The project primarily targets users with Windows 10 PCs that are ineligible for Windows 11 because of hardware constraints.
Microsoft will stop updating most Windows 10 devices after October 14, even though the OS remains more popular than Windows 11. Furthermore, stringent CPU requirements will leave potentially hundreds of millions of PCs unable to run the company’s latest OS.
Windows 11 only supports Intel’s 8th-generation and AMD’s Ryzen 2000 processors or newer, cutting off most systems made before 2017. However, End of 10 argues that many PCs built since 2010 are still usable. That’s left PC repair shops and thrift stores contemplating whether to recycle older machines, keep distributing increasingly vulnerable Windows 10 systems, or switch to Linux – a secure but unfamiliar option for most users.
While Microsoft uses persistent emails and other tactics to push Windows 11 through new PC sales, End of 10 encourages users to switch to Linux. The site highlights several advantages, focusing on cost savings and greater control over software.
Linux supports many older PCs that won’t receive Windows 11 updates, so users often don’t need to upgrade their hardware. The operating system is free to download, compared to $15 (on sale) for Windows 11 Pro. Sticking with older machines also reduces emissions since most of a PC’s lifetime carbon footprint comes from manufacturing.
Also see: A few Linux distro options
Furthermore, Linux likely offers greater privacy, as it’s not controlled by a corporation that tracks user behavior. It also faces less malware since most cyberattacks target other operating systems. Finally, skilled users have complete control over their machines.
End of 10 lists worldwide repair shops that help new users make the jump. The current list is small, mainly comprising European locations, and contains only one US-based company. However, shops and other organizations willing to help are welcome to add their contact information to the list. End of 10 also has information on upcoming Linux tutorial events in multiple countries.
The site also offers a quick DIY installation guide. Although some popular Windows and macOS programs require alternatives on Linux, users who primarily rely on web browsers likely won’t notice a significant difference after switching from Windows.
Whether the impending end of Windows 10 support will push users away from Microsoft remains unclear. Although over half of Windows devices still run Windows 10, according to StatCounter, Windows 11 adoption has accelerated considerably in recent months and could soon surpass the older OS.
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