Welcome to the Future: KDE’s Initiative for Windows 10 Users
Last month, we reported on a Linux initiative spearheaded by KDE, aptly named “End of 10.”As the countdown continues toward the end-of-support date for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, KDE is reaching out to users still clinging to their outdated operating system, encouraging them to consider switching to Linux.
The Grim Reality of Windows 10’s End of Support
KDE’s message is clear: once Microsoft ceases support for Windows 10, your computer risks becoming obsolete, potentially turning into “junk.”The organization warns that without critical updates, the dangers of unpatched vulnerabilities may expose your data and identity to malicious attacks.
Rethinking Software and Hardware Requirements
In addition to security concerns, KDE highlights that many applications may no longer function properly while users might find themselves blocked from upgrading to newer Windows versions unless they invest in new hardware. This situation has been described as “tech extortion, ”raising important questions about sustainability, as many users may feel compelled to discard perfectly usable machines. Instead, KDE suggests a smarter alternative: transitioning to Linux, with a special emphasis on the Plasma desktop, which can efficiently operate on machines that are over ten years old.
Why Choose Plasma?
KDE promotes the Plasma desktop for its user-friendly interface that feels familiar to anyone transitioning from Windows. Users can expect a traditional launch menu and workspaces that closely resemble what they already know. Moreover, Plasma allows for extensive customization, enabling users to replicate the look and feel of Windows or macOS, or even craft their unique environment. As a free and open-source solution developed by a nonprofit, Plasma also supports a wealth of powerful features, including multiple virtual desktops and the advanced Dolphin file manager, which offers seamless connectivity with servers and cloud services.
Facilitating the Transition to Linux
Understanding that changing operating systems can be daunting, KDE provides support for newcomers to Linux. While they acknowledge that Linux requires some adjustment, they advise users to engage with the community for assistance. A crucial suggestion is to seek out Linux applications that serve similar purposes to their previous Windows programs instead of expecting a direct replacement. Thankfully, popular software such as Firefox and LibreOffice often come pre-installed. For further software needs, KDE recommends package managers like Discover, which functions as an intuitive app store.
What Windows Users Might Not Miss
KDE outlines a series of traits from Windows that users will likely appreciate leaving behind, including the prevalence of viruses, intrusive ads, spyware, mandatory updates, and account registrations. However, it is worth noting that their “What will you miss”section doesn’t comment on certain beloved applications that may be missed, such as the entire Adobe Creative Suite, specific Microsoft Office desktop applications, or popular games like Call of Duty and Fortnite, which often face compatibility issues due to anti-cheat systems on Linux.
Getting Started with Linux
If you find the idea of switching appealing, commencing your journey is simple. You can download a Linux distribution—or “distro”—that uses the KDE Plasma desktop as its default environment. Notable options include Kubuntu, Fedora KDE Spin, openSUSE, and KDE Neon. However, KDE also acknowledges that users can explore alternative desktop environments like GNOME, Xfce, and Cinnamon as other viable choices.
Related Articles:
UK Faces Energy Challenges for an AI-Driven Future
3:21
Why I Switched from Windows to Linux and Will Never Regret It
16:04
Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 version 25H2 release confirmed, Windows 10 free updates available, and more
8:02
Leave a Reply ▼