In a significant shift for the tech landscape, Microsoft is set to conclude support for the most prevalent editions of Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This decision comes as the operating system continues to power hundreds of millions of PCs worldwide, leaving many users at a crossroads: upgrade to Windows 11 or explore alternative solutions.
The End of Windows 10 Support
As Microsoft phases out security updates for Windows 10, a considerable number of devices will fall out of compliance with contemporary security standards. This transition has sparked the launch of the End of 10 initiative, which aims to guide users toward affordable and accessible alternatives, particularly Linux.
Joining this movement is LibreOffice, the well-regarded free and open-source productivity suite. The Document Foundation, which oversees LibreOffice, is actively promoting this initiative, encouraging users to rethink their digital workspaces and consider the benefits of transitioning away from Windows.
Many existing Windows 10 devices may not meet the hardware specifications required for Windows 11. However, the challenges extend beyond hardware limitations. The new operating system is designed to deepen users’ reliance on Microsoft’s cloud-centric ecosystem, which often entails higher costs due to aggressive integration with online services and a shift toward paid subscriptions and restrictive licensing agreements.
This evolution could lead to increased expenses for both individuals and organizations, while simultaneously diminishing user autonomy over their systems. Yet, the impending end of official support for Windows 10 presents an opportunity for users to break free from the constraints of Big Tech, embracing Linux and LibreOffice as robust, privacy-conscious alternatives.
Transitioning to a Linux distribution may not be as daunting as some might assume. The Document Foundation emphasizes that the open-source Linux kernel fosters a computing environment that champions transparency, user freedom, and adherence to open standards. Even Microsoft has recognized Linux’s significance, as evidenced by the introduction of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL).
Embracing LibreOffice
The Document Foundation is particularly keen on highlighting the advantages of migrating from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice. This open-source suite encompasses all the essential tools found in a modern productivity package—word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, drawing, and database management—without the burden of licensing fees or vendor lock-in.
LibreOffice utilizes open standard document formats while also accommodating Microsoft’s proprietary file types. However, users should be aware that compatibility may not always be seamless; some Office documents might encounter formatting issues or fail to open correctly. Furthermore, full support for mobile platforms remains a work in progress.
To facilitate a smooth transition from Windows and Office to Linux and LibreOffice, The Document Foundation outlines three essential steps for both individual users and organizations:
- Begin testing the new platform on a secondary partition of your PC or within less critical departments of your organization.
- Assess software compatibility to ensure a seamless experience.
- Provide adequate training for personnel to ease the transition.
As The Document Foundation aptly puts it, “Microsoft is forcing users’ hands, but it is also opening a door. Now is the time to challenge your assumptions and take back control of how your personal computers work, how long they last, and most importantly, how your content is managed.”
