EN - Windows 10 is ending: What you need to know to be prepared

A major milestone: Microsoft is discontinuing Windows 10

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

And yet, despite the arrival of Windows 11 several years ago, Windows 10 remains the most widely used system today, with over 60% of the global market share by the end of 2024. This change raises many questions, especially for those who aren't yet ready to switch.

Why is Windows 10 disappearing?

Windows 10, launched in 2015, has had a long lifespan. But as with all its products, Microsoft uses a limited life cycle policy, where technical support and updates are gradually being phased out. This policy is intended to encourage the transition to more modern, more secure solutions that better reflect hardware evolution.

This decision is also part of a broader technological innovation, with the upcoming Windows 12, a system strongly focused on artificial intelligence. The goal? To change how we interact with the operating system and deliver a smarter, more personalized experience.

What does this mean for your computer?

A device that keeps working… but without a safety net

Let's be clear: your Windows 10 PC will continue to work after support ends. However, you will not receive:

  • Security updates

  • Bug fixes

  • Official technical support

The result? Your computer becomes more vulnerable to security vulnerabilities and may experience compatibility issues with new software.

Pay to stay up-to-date?

Starting in October 2025, users who want to continue using Windows 10 will have to subscribe to the Extended Security Update program, that approximately €30 per year cost. The latest available version remains 22H2Also note: Certain software and services, including new Microsoft offerings, will no longer be compatible with Windows 10.

Although Microsoft 365 still works on the old OS, the publisher is already warning of possible delays and stability issues in the medium term.

What options do you have after Windows 10?

You have four options:

  1. Stay on Windows 10 until the end of paid support (temporary workaround)

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

  3. Testing a free alternative like Linux (Ubuntu, Mint…) or Chrome OS Flex

  4. Replace your device with a new or refurbished computer

Windows 11: The Classic Way (But Not for Everyone)

Installing Windows 11 is easy for recent computers, especially those with a TPM 2.0 chip and a 8th generation or newer processorThe system offers a modern, lightweight interface focused on productivity.

Linux: a robust and environmentally friendly alternative

Don't want to follow Microsoft into this new era? Then Linux offers lightweight, free, and secure environments, ideal for older PCs. Whether it's Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Fedora, these distributions are perfect for office work, internet browsing, or multimedia.

Chrome OS Flex: Simplicity from Google

Another interesting option is Chrome OS Flex, a free, lightning-fast system compatible with almost all PCs (and even older Macs). Ideal for family use, education, or just browsing without worry.

The right reflex: choosing a refurbished PC

A new computer, without breaking the bank

Switching to Windows 11 can be impossible on an old machine. Buying a new computer? Often very expensive. Fortunately, there is a more affordable and sustainable alternative: the refurbished PC.

These are often offered at a price up to twice as low as new, with the same performance guarantees and strict quality control.

A good choice for the environment and your budget

Did you know that producing a new computer consumes:

  • 1,5 ton water

  • 40 kg of fossil fuels

  • 22 kg of chemicals

By a refurbished model By choosing this option, you will drastically reduce your environmental footprint while benefiting from powerful, tested and ready-to-use hardware.

Why choose Media Monster for your refurbished PC?

Bee Media Monster We select computers that are guaranteed, cleaned, tested and delivered ready to use. All our models are ready for Windows 11 (Pro) or another system of your choice.

Conclusion

The end of Windows 10 is a turning point, but also a great opportunity to rethink your IT equipment. Instead of throwing away your old PC or investing a lot of money in a new one, consider refurbished: more affordable, more sustainable and perfectly adapted to this new digital age.

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

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