We’re now just over four months away from a major Microsoft update which will see all free support for Windows 10 come to a sudden halt. On October 14, 2025, those using this hugely popular operating system will no longer receive vital updates, new features or security patches. That could leave millions at risk of cyber attacks and PC-breaking bugs.
Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates to users after the October deadline, but these won’t be free, and with some PCs unable to switch to Windows 11 due to certain system requirements, it could be an expensive time for many Windows 10 users. It could also leave devices at risk of becoming expensive antiques.
In fact, one rival to Windows is warning that many PCs will simply become ‘junk’.
“Your computer is toast,” said the team at KBE.
“Running Windows 10 on your computer? On October 14 Microsoft wants to turn it into junk.
“It may seem like it continues to work after that date for a bit, but when Microsoft stops support for Windows 10, your perfectly good computer will be officially obsolete.”
Along with not being supported, KBE also warns of the dangers of sticking with Windows 10.
“Windows 10 will degrade as more and more bugs come to light. With nobody to correct them, you risk being hacked. Your data, identity, and control over your device could be stolen,” the software company added.
“New versions of your apps will not run, but Microsoft will still block you from upgrading to the next version of Windows until you buy the new computer they decide.’
Of course, there is a reason why KBE is so keen to point out all of these issues. The company has its own software – called Plasma – that runs on Linux and it’s hoping people might make the jump rather than sending their devices to landfill.
This desktop software – which looks a little bit like Windows – is totally free and should run perfectly even on machines that are 10, 15 years old
“Linux can give new life to your laptop. Combined with KDE’s Plasma desktop, you get all the advantages of the safety, stability and hi tech of Linux, with all the features of a beautiful, modern and powerful graphic environment.”
Of course, we don’t recommend switching or trying Linux unless you have backed up all of your files. You also need to make sure you fully read all of the instructions before attempting to make the jump.
We’ve also not used Plasma so can’t confirm how stable it is but it might offer a way to keep you old PC running long after Microsoft has switched off the Windows 10 updates.
Microsoft has more details about Linux here