Life After Windows 10 Support Ends
On 14 October 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10.
This means no more security updates, bug fixes, or feature improvements. Your computer may continue to work, but it will slowly become less secure and more vulnerable to malware.
If you can’t or don’t want to upgrade to Windows 11, there’s a practical alternative: transitioning to Linux, particularly Linux Mint, a free, secure, and beginner-friendly operating system.
Why You Might Need to Change
Even if your computer hardware is still good, it may not meet the requirements for Windows 11.
Microsoft does provide some alternatives:
- Buy new hardware
- Pay for short-term extended support
However, security should be your top priority. Paying for short-term Windows support is expensive and temporary, while Linux provides long-term security for free.
Reducing E-Waste with Linux
Every year, millions of computers are thrown away simply because their operating system is no longer supported.
This growing mountain of electronic waste (e-waste) contains toxic metals and plastics that are difficult to recycle.
Installing Linux Mint on your existing hardware gives your computer a second life. Benefits include:
- Reducing electronic waste
- Saving money on new hardware
- Running your computer efficiently and securely
Transitioning to Linux Mint
Linux Mint is designed to be friendly for Windows users. It has a familiar desktop, start menu, and taskbar, so the learning curve is gentle.
Important Warning Before You Begin
Before installing Linux Mint, please take note:
- All existing data on your computer will be wiped during the installation.
- Back up all files, photos, documents, emails before you start.
- The installation process involves formatting your hard drive, which permanently deletes everything.
- This kind of installation should be done by an IT professional or trained technician to avoid mistakes and data loss.
✅ Trusted Service Recommendation: Computerbank Victoria
If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, or want to ensure the installation is done cleanly and safely, ComputerBank Victoria is a great place to take your computer.
They have experience with installing Linux (including Linux Mint) and can ensure your computer is backed up, data is preserved (if needed), and everything is set up correctly.
Two Ways to Transition
1. Go “Cold Turkey” — Install Linux as Your Main System
If most of your activities are email, web browsing, and cloud apps, Linux handles them easily:
- Browsers like Firefox and Google Chrome work as usual
- Free Office alternatives like LibreOffice open Word and Excel files seamlessly
- Linux cannot run Windows .exe applications, but free equivalents are available in the Linux software store
This is ideal if you want a fully Linux-based workflow.
2. Keep Some Access to Windows
If you occasionally need Windows apps:
- Use web-based Microsoft 365 (free or paid) through your browser
- There may be some limitations, and your files may be stored on OneDrive
For proprietary applications that must run on Windows, you can set up Windows 10 in a virtual machine inside Linux Mint:
- Windows runs as an app on your Linux desktop
- Internet activity goes through Linux, keeping you safe
- No virus scanner needed on Linux
Requirements & Restrictions for Virtual Machine:
- Minimum 8GB RAM (shared between Linux and Windows)
- Cannot use OEM-licensed Windows; a retail license is required
Comparison: Windows 10 vs. Linux Mint
| Feature | Windows 10 | Linux Mint |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Paid (license required) | Free and open-source |
| Updates | Microsoft-controlled | Community-controlled, frequent |
| Performance on Older PCs | Slower over time | Fast and lightweight |
| Security | Needs antivirus | Built-in protection, automatic updates |
| Privacy | Collects telemetry data | Respects your privacy |
| Software | Microsoft Office, Edge, Store apps | LibreOffice, Firefox, open-source apps |
| Support Period | Ends Oct 2025 | Long-term community support |
Everyday Tasks in Linux Mint
| Task | Linux Mint Alternative |
|---|---|
| Internet Browsing | Firefox, Chromium, Brave |
| Thunderbird, Evolution | |
| Office Work | LibreOffice (Word, Excel, etc.) |
| Media | VLC, Rhythmbox |
| Software Installation | Software Manager |
| Security | Built-in, no antivirus required |
Gradual Transition Options
You don’t have to switch everything overnight:
- Begin using Linux for basic tasks (surfing the web, email, watching videos)
- Keep occasional access to Windows for special apps via web or virtual machine
- Over time, shift more of your work to Linux as you become comfortable
This way you stay secure, reduce e-waste, and gain confidence in your new system.
The Future Is Open
You don’t have to throw away a working computer because Windows 10 support ends.
Linux Mint offers a free, secure, and eco-friendly path forward. Whether you want to:
- Fully embrace Linux
- Keep some Windows access for critical apps
- Gradually transition to a Linux-first workflow
…there’s a path that works for you.
Ready to start?
Visit www.linuxmint.com or consult ComputerBank Victoria to help you make the transition safely.
