As the October 14 deadline approaches for Windows 10 users, many are exploring alternatives to the impending (£22) subscription fee for continued security updates. One option is to relocate to mainland Europe, while another involves backing up all settings and data in OneDrive, although this may lead to additional costs associated with Microsoft services. A more intriguing solution lies in switching to Google’s operating system, ChromeOS Flex, which offers a viable path for those unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to stringent system requirements.
ChromeOS Flex: A Sustainable Solution
Google’s ChromeOS Flex presents an opportunity for both individual users and businesses facing the challenge of upgrading numerous machines. This operating system, which mirrors the functionality of Chromebooks, is designed to run on existing hardware originally intended for Windows and macOS. By adopting ChromeOS Flex, businesses can prolong the lifespan of their current devices, thereby reducing electronic waste and minimizing the environmental impact.
According to a report from Canalys Research, Microsoft’s decision to discontinue support for Windows 10 could potentially lead to as many as 240 million PCs being discarded. Retailer Back Market estimates this figure could be closer to 400 million, highlighting a significant concern for both consumers and the environment.
Naveen Viswanatha, ChromeOS Head of Product, Commercial, emphasized in a recent blog post that, “With ChromeOS Flex, businesses can install a new, auto-updating operating system on their existing fleet of Windows devices. This modernizes devices, extends their lifespan, and keeps them out of landfills, reducing their attack surface and saving on hardware refresh costs.”
While ChromeOS Flex does not include certain features found in dedicated Chromebooks—such as a Google security chip or the ability to run Android apps—it still provides essential security updates. This is crucial in an era where cybercrime is projected to cost .5 trillion annually by 2025. Viswanatha notes, “Traditionally, upgrading to the latest available operating system has been a viable way to reduce the chance of an attack, but with hundreds of millions of Windows 10 devices losing support soon, finding a way to keep these PCs secure and sustainable should be a top priority.”
Microsoft has confirmed that support for Windows 10 will officially end in October 2025, meaning no further updates, bug fixes, or emergency patches will be provided after that date. While the performance of Windows 10 devices may remain stable, the absence of security updates poses significant risks for users who continue to rely on this operating system.
Despite the looming deadline, Windows 10 retains a substantial user base, with estimates suggesting that up to three-quarters of the 1.4 billion Windows PCs worldwide still operate on this version. Microsoft has announced a plan to offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) until October 2028 for an undisclosed annual fee, with previous costs ranging from £10 to £159 based on the edition of the operating system. This pricing structure raises questions about the long-term viability of continuing with older systems versus transitioning to newer hardware.
For those considering a switch, ChromeOS Flex is currently available at no cost, with Google claiming that most Windows 10 PCs can be up and running with the new software in under five minutes. As the deadline approaches, users have a range of options to ensure their devices remain secure and functional in an evolving technological landscape.
