EN - The end of Window 10: what you need to know about it?

A major deadline: microsoft ends Windows 10

The countdown has begun: on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. If you’ve recently seen warning messages appear on your screen, it’s not a mistake. This is indeed a major transition in the Windows ecosystem.

And yet, despite the arrival of Windows 11 several years ago, Windows 10 remains the most widely used system today, representing more than 60% of the global market at the end of 2024. This change therefore raises many questions, especially for those who are not yet ready to migrate.

Why is Windows 10 coming to an end?

Launched in 2015, Windows 10 has enjoyed a long lifespan. But like all its products, Microsoft follows a limited lifecycle policy, gradually ending technical support and updates. The goal is to encourage the adoption of more modern, secure solutions that match evolving hardware.

This decision also comes in the context of a major technological shift, with the upcoming launch of Windows 12, a system strongly oriented toward artificial intelligence. The objective? To transform the way we interact with the OS and deliver a smarter, more personalized experience.

What does this mean for your computer?

A working device… but without a safety net

Let’s be clear: your PC running Windows 10 will continue to function even after support ends. However, you will no longer receive:

• Security updates
  

• Bug fixes
  

• Official technical support
  

The result: your computer will be more exposed to security vulnerabilities and may encounter compatibility issues with newer software.

Paying to stay up to date?

From October 2025, those who wish to remain on Windows 10 will need to subscribe to the Extended Support program, costing around €30 per year. The last available update will remain version 22H2. Be aware as well: some software and services, including new Microsoft offerings, will no longer be compatible with Windows 10.

Even though Microsoft 365 will continue to run on the old OS, Microsoft already warns about potential slowdowns and stability issues in the medium term.

What are your options after Windows 10?

You have four main choices:

1. Stay on Windows 10 until extended support expires (a temporary solution)
   

2. Upgrade to Windows 11, if your PC is compatible
   

3. Try a free alternative such as Linux (Ubuntu, Mint...) or Chrome OS Flex
   

4. Change your device, opting for a newer or refurbished mode
   

Windows 11: The classic path (but not for everyone)

Installing Windows 11 is straightforward for modern PCs, especially those equipped with a TPM 2.0 chip and an 8th-generation processor or newer. The system offers a modernized interface, lightweight performance, and productivity-focused tools.

Linux: A robust and eco-friendly alternative

If you don’t want to follow Microsoft into this new era, Linux offers lightweight, free, and secure environments, perfectly suited to older PCs. Whether Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Fedora, these distributions are ideal for office work, web browsing, or multimedia.

Chrome OS Flex: Google’s simple solution

Another interesting option: Chrome OS Flex, a free, ultra-fast system compatible with almost any PC (even older Macs). It’s perfect for family, school, or casual web use.

The smart move: Go for a refurbished PC

Switching to Windows 11 may not be possible on older hardware. Buying a brand-new computer? Often too expensive. Fortunately, there’s a more affordable and sustainable solution: refurbished PCs.

Typically offered at up to half the price of new devices, refurbished computers deliver the same performance guarantees and undergo strict testing and verification processes.

A win for your budget and the planet

Did you know? Manufacturing a new computer consumes:

• 1.5 tons of water

• 40 kg of fossil fuels

• 22 kg of chemicals
  

By choosing a refurbished model, you drastically reduce your environmental footprint while enjoying a reliable, high-performance machine that’s fully tested and ready to use.

Why choose Media Monster for your refurbished PC?

At Media Monster, we select guaranteed, cleaned, and tested devices, delivered ready to use. All our models are prepared to run Windows 11 (Pro) or another OS of your choice.

In summary

The end of Windows 10 marks a turning point—but also an opportunity to rethink your IT equipment. Instead of throwing away your old PC or overspending on a brand-new one, consider refurbished: more economical, more sustainable, and perfectly suited to this new digital era.

Discover our selection of refurbished PCs compatible with Windows 11 or Linux at Media Monster.