Microsoft has announced that it will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, coinciding with International E-Waste Day. The decision affects nearly half of all Windows computers still running the outdated operating system, many of which do not meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11.
Without ongoing support from Microsoft, these devices will lose access to security updates and eventually become non-compliant with current cybersecurity standards. To address this issue, individual users can now receive an extra year of support for $30, while educational institutions can purchase additional years at a lower price.
However, businesses face higher costs, and the consumer extension is limited. This has led many individuals, schools, public organizations, and businesses to consider replacing their working hardware sooner than planned. The US PIRG estimates that ending Windows 10 support could generate over 1.7 million tons of electronic waste.
In response, community groups are organizing repair events to help people install free and open-source operating systems on their devices, extending their lifespan. A group of developers has also created a ‘End of Windows 10’ toolkit to aid these efforts. While community-led initiatives are growing, some sustainability advocates argue that stronger rules and regulations are needed to protect consumers and the environment. They urge policymakers to establish minimum durability and repairability standards, adjust economic incentives for longer-lasting products, and set targets for electronic waste reuse and repair.
Source: https://www.extremetech.com/computing/loss-of-windows-10-support-could-create-17-million-tons-of-e-waste