As the clock ticks down to October 14, a significant shift looms for laptop and computer users across the Illawarra region and beyond. On this date, Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10, leaving countless devices susceptible to cyber threats and viruses. For those whose machines can accommodate Windows 11, a seamless upgrade is available at no cost. However, for many, the options are limited.
Andrew Anthony, a Wollongong City Councillor and ICT consultant, emphasizes the implications of this transition. Without ongoing support from Microsoft, Windows 10 will no longer receive essential software updates, which are crucial for safeguarding devices from malicious attacks. “This will make a lot of working tech become completely redundant,” he warns, expressing concern over the potential for millions of still-functional computers to be discarded. He particularly worries about vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, who may find themselves unprepared for this change.
Options for Users
For those whose laptops cannot upgrade to Windows 11, a few alternatives exist:
- Consider paying Microsoft for an additional year of support for the existing operating system.
- Explore the possibility of transitioning to a different operating system, such as Linux, which is often regarded as more secure than Windows.
- Retain the old device for non-internet use, perhaps for children, while upgrading to a newer model.
Cr. Anthony advocates for maximizing the lifespan of existing technology, suggesting that every effort should be made to extend the usability of devices rather than succumbing to the cycle of disposability.
In instances where upgrading or repurposing is not feasible, responsible recycling becomes paramount. The Community Recycling Centre (CRC) at Whytes Gully, managed by Wollongong City Council, is equipped to handle e-waste safely, ensuring that valuable materials such as copper, gold, and rare earth elements are recovered and reused rather than relegated to landfills. Local retailers, including Officeworks, also facilitate e-waste recycling programs, offering convenient drop-off points for residents.
Looking ahead, Cr. Anthony envisions a future characterized by robust national policies aimed at reducing e-waste and enhancing community awareness regarding upgrade alternatives. “We need to support local repair services and challenge the prevalent throwaway mentality in the tech industry,” he asserts. “People should have the ability to maintain, repair, and upgrade their devices instead of being compelled into costly and unnecessary replacement cycles driven by planned obsolescence.”
By prioritizing repair and reuse, the community can extend the lifespan of electronics, diminish the demand for new manufacturing, lower carbon emissions, and ultimately help more individuals gain access to technology. Together, there is an opportunity to cultivate a more circular and sustainable economy, where technology is designed to last, waste is minimized, and valuable resources are preserved for future generations.
