In a previous exploration, the potential of extending the lifespan of aging Windows 10 hardware was discussed, particularly as the operating system reached its end-of-service in October 2025. The focus was on repurposing these devices with a thin-client OS, specifically through the installation of 10ZiG’s RepurpOS on a decade-old Dell Latitude E7440. This approach not only addresses security concerns but also demonstrates that even older, budget-friendly systems can perform admirably when accessing remote desktop protocols and Software as a Service (SaaS) applications.
Assessing VDI Workloads
This article delves into the assessment of how well RepurpOS handles Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) workloads. The testing involved connecting to an Omnissa (formerly VMware) Horizon desktop, where multiple Microsoft Office applications were run concurrently, high-resolution YouTube videos were streamed, and unified communications via Zoom were evaluated. The expectation was that the performance and usability would align closely with experiences on a Windows 11 system.
Additionally, the capability of RepurpOS to support dual-monitor setups was verified, ensuring seamless functionality in both VDI sessions and local browser-based applications. Beyond performance metrics, the analysis also included a look at 10ZiG’s robust management software, the newly introduced secure enterprise browser, and the RepurpConvert tool, which facilitates the direct conversion of Windows 10 devices without the need for USB media. The ultimate goal was to determine whether RepurpOS offers a stable, user-friendly, and environmentally responsible solution for extending the life of millions of so-called “obsolete” PCs.
During the VDI desktop access test, the Horizon client was configured to connect to a virtual desktop running Windows 11, equipped with two virtual CPUs, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of NVMe storage. The connection was established at the monitor’s native 2K resolution, allowing for the simultaneous launch of Microsoft Office applications—Word, PowerPoint, and Excel—without any performance issues.
To evaluate video playback capabilities, a YouTube video was streamed first in auto mode and then at 1440p resolution, with both settings delivering excellent quality.
Unified Communications and Remote Desktops
Unified communications (UC) play a pivotal role in enhancing workplace productivity and collaboration, especially for hybrid teams dispersed across various locations. RepurpOS employs Multimedia Redirection (MMR) to optimize UC processing and networking by shifting these tasks from the virtual desktop server to the local thin client. This redirection improves responsiveness, alleviates server strain, and allows for a higher density of virtual desktops while maintaining a consistent user experience.
To assess the effectiveness of this feature, a Zoom session was connected using the Zoom VDI plugin, showcasing the capabilities of RepurpOS in handling resource-intensive UC applications.
Accessing MS Office 365 via a Local Browser
Not all users require a full virtual desktop; a recent report from Omdia Research indicates that a significant portion of the workday—85%—is spent utilizing SaaS and web applications accessed through a browser. RepurpOS accommodates this by supporting local web browser functionality. Google Chrome was launched from the RepurpOS desktop without any complications, allowing for smooth streaming of YouTube videos at 1080p and seamless navigation across various websites.
While RepurpOS does not support running Office 365 natively on the laptop, the web version operated flawlessly. After logging into MS Office 365, Microsoft Copilot was employed to create a PowerPoint slide deck, demonstrating the system’s capability to handle office applications with ease. The experience mirrored that of using a Windows 11 laptop, affirming the effectiveness of RepurpOS in a business environment.
Furthermore, 10ZiG recently introduced the 10ZiG Secure Browser, a Chromium-based solution designed to provide secure, governed web access. This browser is included at no additional cost with all their thin-client operating systems, offering businesses a means to mitigate browser-based security risks, particularly in light of findings that 95% of organizations have experienced browser-based attacks in the past year.
Dual Monitor Support
To further enhance productivity, the capability of RepurpOS to support dual monitors was confirmed. By connecting an external monitor to the laptop’s HDMI port, it was detected effortlessly, allowing for independent and mirrored modes of operation alongside the laptop’s display.
