Should end-of-life for Windows 10 create more waste?

Microsoft has some while ago announced end-of-life of Windows 10 support. It means they won’t supply security patches and updates for the OS after October 14 2025. For users it would mean their system would be more vulnerable to cybersecurity threats and that newer versions of software might not run on their system.

The cost to upgrade to Windows 11 is not overwhelming, but as usual the newer system has a new set of requirements for the hardware. Meaning that you could have a PC in good shape and adequate performance for your needs, but you can’t upgrade to next gen Windows.

Many think the easiest way out it simply to scrap the old and buy a new. Hence the EOL will create more e-waste.

But it don’t need to be this way, because the hardware will be capable of running a Linux installation with full support many years ahead. Personally I have a Thinkpad e-130 from 2011 running Ubuntu with support for years to come.

So, instead of creating e-waste and shelling out hundreds of EUR/USD (easily run into thousands) for a new PC. You could replace the Windows with a fresh Linux distribution. There are many to choose from. Personally I’ve been a happy Ubuntu user for the last 20 years. But other flavors are to be found and support to assist your select is available, could take a look at the Register to get started with the idea and keep your computing safe.