The Open Source Initiative is proud to stand with the “End of 10” campaign—a community-driven effort to turn the looming end of Windows 10 support into an opportunity for freedom, sustainability, and digital empowerment.

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. That means hundreds of millions of otherwise functional computers will suddenly be pushed toward obsolescence—not because they’re broken, but because they no longer fit within a closed and arbitrary upgrade cycle. Devices that lack the latest hardware, or simply fail to meet opaque requirements for Windows 11, will be cast aside.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

A better way forward with Open Source

The reality is simple: your computer doesn’t have to become e-waste. You don’t have to buy new hardware. You don’t need to accept intrusive software or give up your digital autonomy.

You can install Linux. You can use Open Source software. You can take control.

Open Source software gives you the freedom to keep using the technology you already own. It allows you to run secure, fast, modern systems on machines new and old. And unlike proprietary alternatives, Linux distributions and other Open Source platforms put the user in charge—from privacy settings to software updates.

We believe the “End of 10” campaign is a powerful reminder of what Open Source is all about: sustainability, user empowerment, and choice.

5 reasons to upgrade your old computer to Linux

No new hardware, no licensing costsA new laptop costs a lot of money, but several Linux operating systems are available for free. Software updates are also free, forever. You can of course show your support with donations!

Enhanced privacyWindows comes with lots of ads and spyware. This slows down your computer, lets companies spy on you, and increases your energy bills.

Good for the planetProduction of a computer accounts for 75+% of carbon emissions over its lifecycle. Keeping a functioning device longer is a hugely effective way to reduce emissions. With a Linux operating system you can use your device longer.

Community & professional supportThere are local repair cafes and independent, professional services and computer shops available for providing you help. You can find support in online forums, too.

Better user controlLinux grants you the four freedoms of software. You are free to use, study, share, and improve the program, for as long as you wish. You are in control of your device.

Join us

If you’re staring down the end of Windows 10, know that you have options. Visit endof10.org to learn more about events where you can get in-person help migrating to Linux, find ongoing local support, and keep your hardware—and your freedom—working for you.

Do you know of a place or event in your area offering Linux support that is not listed on the website? Ask them to contact the campaign in order to extend the global Linux support network as widely as possible!

Open Source isn’t just about code. It’s about community, sustainability, and autonomy. The “End of 10” campaign is a chance to show the world how powerful those values can be.

We invite everyone—users, developers, educators, and advocates—to be part of this movement. Because the end of Windows 10 isn’t the end of the road. It’s a new beginning.

Source: opensource.org