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Read and share online: https://www.fsf.org/blogs/community/2025-end-of-windows-10

Microsoft does everything in its power to keep Windows users under its control. Because Windows is proprietary software, neither users nor independent experts can study the system's source code, copy it, modify it to meet their own needs, or redistribute components they find useful. This lack of freedom forces users to surrender to decisions made by Microsoft to maximize its profits and further lock users into its product ecosystem, often nudging them to more restrictive products.

On October 14, Microsoft will end security updates for most personal computers running Windows 10, a move that will leave millions of computers vulnerable. Upgrading to Windows 11 is not an option for many users because of its specific hardware requirements. IT management company Lansweeper, for example, found that of the 30 million enterprise systems they manage, over 40% are incompatible with Windows 11. This is due to the hardware requirements like Treacherous Platform Module version 2.0 — a proprietary chip that uses cryptography that users can't influence or audit to restrict their control over the system.

The end of Windows 10 support is the perfect opportunity to break free from this cycle and switch to GNU/Linux operating system (GNU/Linux OS), a system that respects your freedom. Free software, like a GNU/Linux OS, gives users the freedom to modify and redistribute software to better serve their needs. In comparison, Microsoft offers users on unsupported devices a few losing choices that only reinforce its control.

The endless, freedom-restricting cycle of planned obsolescence is not inevitable. Instead of paying Microsoft for continued updates or buying new hardware, Windows users left behind by Microsoft should install GNU/Linux. Free Software Foundation certified GNU/Linux distributions respect the user's freedom to run their computer as they wish, to study and modify its source code, and to redistribute copies. They don't require update contracts, often run faster on older hardware, and, most importantly, put you in control.

If you're already a GNU/Linux user, you have an important role to play. Help your friends and family make the switch by sharing your knowledge, help them install a free-as-in-freedom OS. Show them what it means to have real control over their computing!

Miles Wilson
Campaigns Intern