Many Windows 10 users will already be aware that Microsoft announced some time ago that all support for Windows 10 will soon end. The company has consistently warned of the risks of remaining on Windows 10 and has advised users to upgrade to Windows 11. This is generally good advice and is relatively straightforward, provided the PC or laptop is no more than about three years old.
For those using an older device, it is worth noting that over seven million UK businesses still operate on Windows 10, along with countless personal users. A recent global survey indicates that Windows 10 remains the primary operating system on Microsoft PCs and laptops, accounting for nearly 65% of users, whereas Windows 11 makes up only about half of that. Earlier versions, such as Windows 7, have largely faded into obscurity.
Previously, reasons were outlined as to why older devices cannot upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. With Microsoft’s support for Windows 10 set to end on Tuesday 14th October, users would be well advised to make preparations before this deadline.
So, what options are available for those with unsupported devices? Messages from Microsoft and major retailers such as eBuyer suggest that the only viable solution is to replace hardware with newer models, which can be costly.
Clarborough and Welham IT Group faced this same issue when dealing with its batch of Windows 10 laptops after the Covid pandemic. Fortunately, the group had already explored alternatives, leading its chairman to purchase a desktop PC running Ubuntu Linux. While there is not enough space here to explore Linux in detail, an internet search for Linux or Ubuntu Linux will reveal just how vast the Linux ecosystem is. Additionally, Linux shares similarities with Apple’s macOS.
Ubuntu Linux offers several advantages over all Windows versions:
- Ubuntu Linux can easily replace Windows 10 on existing devices.
- Linux is the backbone of the internet, the operating system for the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the foundation of the vast majority of online servers.
- The user experience of Ubuntu Linux is very similar to that of Windows 10, Windows 11, and recent Apple Macs.
- Linux provides access to the global open-source community, where users can find free alternatives to Microsoft 365 Office, Adobe Photoshop, and many other applications—all available for free, with no licensing restrictions.
Clarborough and Welham IT Group will be hosting a hands-on Ubuntu Linux demonstration at Clarborough Village Hall on Saturday 14th June from 1.00pm to 2.30pm (£5.00 admission). Attendees will have the opportunity to experience Ubuntu Linux firsthand and receive guidance on local specialists who can install Ubuntu Linux on existing devices for a fraction of the cost of new hardware.
To attend, book a place by calling 01777 700918 or emailing clarboroughwelham@gmail.com with ‘Linux demo’ as the email subject.