Windows 10 Support Ending: Exploring Options for Users

07 Sep 2025

The end of support for Windows 10, slated for October 14, 2025, is a pressing concern for many users. With this development, a significant number of laptops currently in use won't be eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware incompatibility. This scenario presents users with a crucial decision: continue using their current systems, venture into purchasing new devices, or opt for a creative solution by installing an alternative operating system.

Evaluating Current Hardware

In comparing a 2018 Toshiba Tecra A50 with the latest 2025 Acer Aspire Go 15, notable differences emerge. The Tecra A50, featuring an 8th-generation Intel Core i5 processor paired with UHD Graphics 620, remains functional for everyday tasks such as office work, email, and web browsing. It offers legacy options such as an optional DVD drive and a card reader, even though its Kaby Lake-era CPU is not supported for Windows 11.

Conversely, the Acer Aspire Go 15, equipped with a more recent Intel CPU and Iris Xe graphics, exhibits significantly superior performance. Benchmarks highlight improved CPU and GPU scores, indicating faster program and website loading times, modern Wi-Fi capabilities, and an overall enhanced system responsiveness.

Exploring Operating System Alternatives

For those hesitant to invest in new hardware, alternative operating systems provide viable options. Lightweight solutions such as ChromeOS Flex and beginner-friendly Linux distributions like Linux Mint can be installed on older hardware to maintain security and performance. Linux Mint draws attention with its familiar, Windows-like interface, although ChromeOS Flex might require some users to adapt to its unique learning curve.

Considerations for Device Replacement

Should users decide to upgrade their devices, they might also consider donating their functional laptops to charitable organizations that refurbish them for educational purposes. It is crucial, however, to ensure that any personal data is securely backed up or completely erased from these devices before donation.

The cessation of Windows 10 support presents opportunities to rethink technology needs and consider alternatives that can extend the life of older devices or enhance user experience through new hardware and operating systems.

Close All Windows

Close All Windows download for free to PC or mobile

Latest update Close All Windows download for free for Windows PC or Android mobile

4
556 reviews
3245 downloads

News and reviews about Close All Windows

01 Nov 2025

Boost Windows 11 Arm with Improved x64 Emulation

Microsoft enhances Windows 11 25H2 with update KB5067115: better x64 emulation on Arm, boosting app performance.

Read more

31 Oct 2025

YouTube's AI Moderation Removes Windows 11 Install Guides

YouTube's AI moderation removed videos on Windows 11 installation workarounds, sparking creators' concerns.

Read more

31 Oct 2025

Windows 7 Slimmed to 69 MB as Proof of Concept

A developer has reduced Windows 7 to 69 MB, highlighting efforts to minimize OS bloat.

Read more

30 Oct 2025

Windows 11 26H1 Update to Launch in 2024 with Limited Availability

Microsoft plans Windows 11 26H1 release early 2024; testing starts on NPU-equipped PCs using Windows on Arm.

Read more

29 Oct 2025

Windows 11 Updates: Copilot+ Enhancements and New Features

Microsoft updates Windows 11, featuring Copilot+, voice access, and taskbar improvements, as part of a Controlled Feature Release.

Read more

29 Oct 2025

Windows 11 Adds Key Features with October 2025 Update

Microsoft releases October 2025 Windows 11 update KB5067036 with new Copilot features, File Explorer improvements, and better voice access.

Read more

29 Oct 2025

Windows 11 Update KB5067112 Introduces Personalized Offers

Windows 11's KB5067112 update adds Personalized Offers to OOBE and fixes touch keyboard and network issues. Available now for 23H2.

Read more

26 Oct 2025

Windows95 Revived Using Floppy Drives and FlashPath

Windows95 runs on a floppy setup using FlashPath, offering a unique view into tech history.

Read more

26 Oct 2025

Windows Evolution: From XP to Windows 11

Windows has evolved since XP, improving design and multitasking, despite some criticisms.

Read more

24 Oct 2025

Duplicate SID Bug Affects Windows 11 Network Access

Microsoft reports a SID issue in Windows 11 systems cloned with duplicated SIDs; a rebuild is needed for resolution.

Read more