With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025, millions of Windows 10 users will be left behind by the company. Upgrades to Windows 11 may be out of the question, due to stricter system requirements. While these can be bypassed, many Windows 10 users may lack the expertise to do so.

This leaves Microsoft's recommendation to buy a new Windows 11 PC or subscribe to one year of extended security updates as the only options that Microsoft highlights in its recommendations.

There are at least two additional options available to users, but Microsoft makes no mention of them. The first is to subscribe to 0Patch, which costs $30 per year as well, like ESU, but guarantees updates until at least 2030. The second is to migrate to Linux.

Migrating to Linux is a daunting task. It is another operating system, which means it needs to be installed and configured, and files need to be moved over. Also, while many programs are available for Windows and Linux, there are notable exceptions.

End of 10

End of 10 tries to help Windows 10 users move over to Linux. It has KDE backing, at least when it comes to hosting, which gives it credibility.

The project team highlights five reasons for switching to Linux:

• It is cheaper - Linux is free to install and use.
• It is ad-free and not spying no users.
• Good for the planet to keep using older PCs instead of purchasing new ones.
• Communities around the world support Linux and may help new users.
• Users are in control.

While those are reassuring, the project's main goal is to bring Windows 10 users who want to switch to Linux but need help doing so in contact with local Linux communities. Windows 10 users who try to switch to Linux will have questions and may need help. The idea is to help them via local communities.

The website lists Linux communities that have pledged to help already. The list is relatively short, but communities from France, Germany, the United States or Thailand are already listed. There is a good chance that more will sign up. You can browse the list or use the intgrated search to find a suitable Linux community.

The website lists events as well that bring Linux communities and users together. These events are also designed to help Windows 10 users make the switch.

Lastly, there is also a guide, but it is the most basic guide that you will find. It is not really suitable for inexperienced users, as it does not include recommendations. The essence is that it asks users to search for Linux distributions for beginners to pick one.

Closing Words

End of 10 is a useful project that could help Windows 10 users make the switch to Linux. It depends mostly on the availability of local Linux groups and their willingness to help.

Now You: do you run Linux already, you a Window 10 user who plans to switch to Linux, or do you run a different operating system? Feel free to leave a comment down below.