
Transitioning from Windows 10: Key Insights and New Developments
The impending end of support for Windows 10 has raised concerns among users, especially as governments issue warnings regarding the potential risks of continuing to use an unsupported operating system. This final transition phase prompted many to speculate on how best to navigate the change.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft has clarified that it has ceased the practice of automatically installing new feature updates without user consent. While this is a positive step towards user agency, Windows 10 will still function with its existing features and ongoing updates. However, it’s worth noting that issues persist with the operating system, a fact that Microsoft openly acknowledges.
Despite the availability of Extended Security Updates (ESU), which can now be accessed without the usual fee of $30 for an additional year of support, the effectiveness of this option has come into question. The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) recently criticized Microsoft, highlighting that this effort may not adequately support the nearly 400 million devices globally that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. According to PIRG, even a year of free support falls short of what is needed to effectively address the situation for many users.
In light of this significant transition, The Restart Project—a community-driven social enterprise focused on promoting the Right to Repair and reducing electronic waste—has launched a new resource titled the “‘End of Windows 10’ toolkit.”This initiative aims to assist community repair groups and guide them through the complexities associated with this technological shift. The toolkit includes practical steps for offering support, such as:
- Incorporating ‘End of 10’ support into regular community repair events to provide assistance.
- Hosting dedicated ‘End of 10’ gatherings, reminiscent of Linux ‘Installfests, ’ to help users adapt.
- Collaborating with local organizations to spread awareness and resources.
For individuals grappling with unsupported devices, LibreOffice advocates exploring a switch to Linux, emphasizing the true costs associated with upgrading to Windows 11. This alternative could provide users with greater flexibility and potentially reduce dependency on a proprietary operating system.
For further details on how to navigate these changes and the toolkit offered by The Restart Project, please refer to the following sources:
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