Microsoft has positioned Windows 11 as “a more modern, secure, and highly efficient computing experience,” with users reporting a remarkable 62% reduction in security incidents compared to its predecessor, Windows 10. For those whose devices meet the necessary hardware specifications, the upgrade to Windows 11 is available at no cost. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced an “extended security update” program, allowing Windows 10 users to purchase continued support until October 13, 2026.
Concerns Over the Transition
However, the transition has not been without its critics. Jenn Engstrom, the state director of the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG), has labeled the “end of 10” a “lose-lose-lose” scenario. “It’s bad for consumers. It’s bad for security, and it’s bad for the environment,” she stated, highlighting that an estimated 400 million Windows 10 users globally may not have the hardware to upgrade to Windows 11. In a letter addressed to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, CALPIRG and other organizations expressed their concerns, warning that this could lead to an unprecedented surge in discarded computers.
Engstrom elaborated on the potential fallout: “When Microsoft stops providing security updates for Windows 10, those computers will either be insecure and unsafe to keep using, or else turn into junk and get thrown out. Less than a quarter of electronic waste is recycled, so most of those computers will end up in landfills.” Past advocacy efforts have seen success; in 2024, Microsoft extended Windows 10 security updates to U.S. schools following pressure from consumer advocates. Similarly, a European consumer advocacy group has successfully secured free automatic updates for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area for an additional year.
Engstrom emphasized the principle behind these efforts: “We think that when people buy a device, they should be able to use it as long as they possibly can.” Despite these calls for action, Microsoft has yet to respond to inquiries regarding extending free, automatic support for Windows 10 in the United States.
Del Jaljaa, owner of San Francisco Computer Repair, has noted a steady influx of clients seeking assistance with their upgrades. “I don’t know why they’re ending [Windows 10],” he remarked. “It seems from the working perspective that it does the same thing [as Windows 11].” Jaljaa has reassured his customers that they need not panic; with reliable antivirus software, they can continue using Windows 10 for the time being. However, he acknowledged the inevitability of aging hardware, suggesting that many may soon find themselves compelled to invest in new computers.
In response to the impending transition, various groups within the right to repair movement have launched the End of 10 initiative, which offers tools and guidance to Windows 10 users interested in migrating their systems to a Linux operating system for continued secure operation.
On the other hand, some IT professionals, such as Vladimir Galant, view the “end of 10” as a natural progression in the technology lifecycle. “Sometimes you have to replace outdated hardware. I don’t see a real concern here,” said Galant, who owns 911 PC Help in San Francisco, providing outsourced IT services to small businesses in the Bay Area. “The majority of our clients understand the necessity to upgrade, because if something happens security-wise, they can go down for a long time, and that’s what we’re trying to avoid.”
