On October 14, 2025, a significant chapter in the history of computing will close. Windows 10, the operating system that has been with us for almost a decade, will no longer be officially supported by Microsoft. It’s high time to think about the future of our loyal computers equipped with this OS. But what are our options? Should we be tempted to upgrade to Windows 11, even if our PC isn’t officially compatible? Or is this the ideal moment to explore alternatives like Linux? Let’s break it down.
Paying to Extend Support: The Easy Way Out?
The first option available is subscribing to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. In exchange for an annual subscription, we can continue receiving crucial security patches. However, beware—this option will be expensive, as the cost doubles each year! Businesses will need to pay $61 per device in the first year, $122 in the second, and finally $244 in the third. Fortunately, educational institutions get a better deal, paying between $1 and $4 per device. As for individual users, Microsoft has not yet released a price list.
In short, ESU is a temporary solution that gives you a maximum of three years to find an exit strategy. And even then, there’s no guarantee of receiving new features or fixes for non-critical bugs. Moreover, technical support will be limited. In essence, it’s far from an ideal long-term solution.
Forcing the Upgrade to Windows 11: A Risky Bet
If your PC isn’t officially compatible with Windows 11 but isn’t too outdated, you can try forcing an upgrade. Currently, you can bypass hardware requirements like the mandatory TPM 2.0 module or a supported processor by adding the /product server parameter to the installer command line. Another method is to modify certain registry keys to simulate compatible hardware or create a custom ISO with the Rufus tool.
However, Microsoft seems to be working on closing these loopholes. The recent build 25H1, released in the Insider Canary channel, has already removed the /product server trick. If this change is confirmed in a future public update after 24H2 in October, older PCs will be permanently stuck on Windows 10. Other workarounds are also likely to be invalidated over time.
Sure, you can currently install Windows 11 on an unsupported machine without immediate issues. I’ve personally done it successfully. But there’s no guarantee that this will remain viable in the long term. Microsoft may tighten its compatibility criteria at any time and stop delivering updates to unsupported computers. Additionally, some peripherals or applications may not work optimally on a non-certified platform. In short, it’s a gamble on the future!
Upgrading or Replacing Your Hardware: The Consumerist Temptation
Another solution is, of course, to switch to a newer PC designed for Windows 11. On paper, it’s tempting. Compatibility issues disappear, and you can enjoy all the latest features without hassle. Manufacturers and Microsoft would be thrilled.
But at what cost? Your wallet will take a hit, and our already struggling planet doesn’t need us discarding perfectly functional computers. This is the paradox of Microsoft’s strategy, which prioritizes maximum security over digital sustainability. How many millions of fully operational PCs will be thrown away, disregarding ecological concerns and the cost to consumers?
Independent tests have shown that Windows 11 works fine on systems below the official specifications, like an older Intel Core i7-6700K or even an ancient Intel Core 2 Duo. This proves that the stringent hardware requirements are more of a political decision than a technical necessity. Understandably, this frustrates many users.
Fortunately, upgrading isn’t the only option. If you’re a bit tech-savvy, you can consider upgrading certain components, like changing the motherboard and processor if your PC is upgradable. This could make your machine eligible for Windows 11 without needing a full replacement. But it does require some technical know-how.
Embracing Linux: The Wise Choice
What if the best option is to turn your back on Windows altogether? By adopting Linux, you can extend your machine’s life without sacrificing security or spending a dime!
With mainstream distributions like Ubuntu and Linux Mint, installation and setup are now very user-friendly. Gone are the days when you needed to be a command-line guru to tame the penguin. The interfaces have become much more intuitive, and hardware and software compatibility has significantly improved. You can smoothly transition from Windows without losing your bearings.
Not only will you extend your PC’s life by several years, but you’ll also free yourself from the vicious cycle of planned obsolescence and forced updates. With Linux, you decide when to upgrade to a new version, not the software maker. Plus, you escape Microsoft’s intrusive data collection and questionable commercial tactics. You’ll regain control of your machine!
Of course, Linux isn’t perfect. Some specific software or games may be missing or require some tweaks to work. You’ll also need some time to adjust to this new environment and its quirks. But overall, for everyday use (web browsing, office work, multimedia, development), Linux is more than sufficient. It’s a chance to rediscover your old computer in a new light!
Staying on Windows 10: The Reckless Choice
Some will choose to continue using Windows 10 without security updates. After all, if their machine runs smoothly, why bother changing? This is a grave mistake! Unless your PC is completely disconnected from the internet and never has a USB drive plugged in, you’re opening the door to viruses and hackers! Your machine will become one of the countless zombie PCs that poison the web, spreading malware and participating in denial-of-service attacks without your knowledge. Not to mention the risks to your personal data, which could be stolen or encrypted by ransomware. In short, continuing to use an outdated OS in 2025 is a recipe for disaster. Avoid it at all costs!
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice is yours, but time is ticking. By October 2025, you’ll need to either pay for an extension under Windows 10, upgrade or replace your hardware to move to Windows 11, or consider switching to Linux.
The most reasonable option seems to be planning a migration to Linux now, especially if your needs are fairly basic. It’s a chance to give your machine a fresh start, avoiding planned obsolescence and Microsoft’s control. And you can still use Windows 10 or 11 in a virtual machine for occasional needs.
If you truly can’t part with Windows, set aside a budget to renew or upgrade your hardware before the deadline. And think carefully before forcing an installation of Windows 11 through unofficial means. Even if it works now, there’s a real risk of running into compatibility or stability problems down the line. Not to mention the looming threat of an update block.
One thing is certain: waiting until the last minute to act is the best way to regret it. So it’s best to start exploring your options now and make a smooth transition without rushing.
