Windows 10 End of Life 2025: Complete Guide to Switching to Linux

Microsoft officially ends support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, your PC will no longer receive security updates, leaving it vulnerable to cyber threats. If your hardware does not meet Windows 11 requirements, switching to Linux is your best option for a secure, fast, and free computing experience.

Why Windows 10 Users Should Consider Linux

With hundreds of millions of PCs running Windows 10, many users face a difficult choice: buy new hardware for Windows 11, pay for extended security updates, or make the switch to Linux. Here is why Linux makes sense:

1. Your Hardware Is Not the Problem

Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and specific CPU generations. Many perfectly functional PCs from 2017-2019 cannot run Windows 11. Linux runs beautifully on this same hardware – often faster than Windows 10 ever did.

2. Security Without the Cost

Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10, but it costs money and only lasts until 2028. Linux provides continuous security updates completely free, forever.

3. Breathe New Life Into Old Hardware

Linux is known for reviving old computers. That sluggish laptop collecting dust could become a fast, responsive machine with a lightweight Linux distribution.

Best Linux Distributions for Windows Users in 2025

1. Linux Mint (Most Recommended)

Best for: Windows users who want the easiest transition

• Cinnamon desktop looks and feels like Windows
• Start menu, taskbar, and system tray work as expected
• Includes multimedia codecs out of the box
• Extremely stable and beginner-friendly

ubuntu">2. Ubuntu

Best for: Users who want the largest community support

• Most popular Linux distribution worldwide
• Huge community and extensive documentation
• Best hardware compatibility
• 5-year LTS support releases

3. Zorin OS

Best for: Users who want a Windows-like appearance

• Designed specifically for Windows migrants
• Windows 7/10/11 layout options built-in
• Beautiful, polished interface

Step-by-Step Migration Guide

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before anything else, back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage:

• Documents, photos, videos, music
• Browser bookmarks
• Email data
• Software license keys

Step 2: Try Linux Without Installing

Test Linux risk-free with a Live USB:

1. Download your chosen Linux distribution ISO
2. Create bootable USB using Rufus or balenaEtcher
3. Restart PC and boot from USB
4. Select “Try Linux” to test without installing

Step 3: Install Linux

The installation process takes about 20-30 minutes:

1. Boot from USB and click Install
2. Select language and keyboard layout
3. Connect to WiFi
4. Choose to replace Windows or dual boot
5. Create username and password
6. Wait for installation to complete

Software Alternatives

Gaming on Linux

Thanks to Valve Proton, most Windows games now run on Linux. Install Steam and enable Steam Play:

# Install Steam
sudo apt install steam

Check game compatibility at ProtonDB.com

Conclusion

Windows 10 end of life does not mean your PC has to become obsolete. Linux offers a free, secure, and powerful alternative. Start testing Linux now and make the switch before October 2025!