Windows 10 Support Ending in 4 Months : What You Need to Know Before It's Too Late
What happens when the clock runs out on an operating system used by over a billion devices worldwide? In just four months, Windows 10 will enter its final phase before Microsoft officially ends support in October 2025. While that deadline may seem distant, the implications are already rippling through homes, businesses, and IT departments. The end of free updates, particularly critical security patches, signals a turning point for users who rely on Windows 10 for everything from online banking to running essential software. For some, this marks an opportunity to embrace change; for others, it's a looming challenge with no easy answers. One thing is certain: ignoring this transition could leave your system—and your data—dangerously exposed.
Explaining Computers explains more about the crossroads facing Windows 10 users as they navigate a post-support world. From the hurdles of upgrading to Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements to alternative paths like Linux-based operating systems or hybrid strategies, the choices are as varied as they are complex. You'll discover the risks of staying put, the environmental costs of planned obsolescence, and the creative solutions that can extend the life of your hardware. Whether you're a tech-savvy tinkerer or someone who just wants to keep things running smoothly, this guide will help you weigh your options and prepare for what lies ahead. After all, the countdown has already begun—how will you adapt? Windows 10 Support Ending What Happens After October 14, 2025?
Once Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, the operating system will no longer receive updates, including essential security fixes. While your PC will remain operational, it will be exposed to new vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. This creates significant risks, particularly for online activities such as banking, shopping, and accessing sensitive information. Without regular updates, your system could become a target for malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats, leaving your data and privacy at risk.
For businesses and individuals alike, this lack of security updates means that continuing to use Windows 10 without additional precautions could lead to serious consequences. It is essential to understand these risks and take proactive measures to protect your digital environment. Challenges of Upgrading to Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 may seem like the most straightforward solution, but it is not always a viable option for everyone. Many devices running Windows 10 do not meet the stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11. These requirements include: TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): A security feature that many older devices lack.
A security feature that many older devices lack. Secure Boot: A feature designed to prevent unauthorized software from loading during startup.
A feature designed to prevent unauthorized software from loading during startup. Specific processor models: Only newer processors are compatible with Windows 11.
While unofficial methods exist to bypass these requirements and install Windows 11 on unsupported devices, these workarounds come with significant risks. Systems installed using these methods may face limited updates, reduced stability, or other vulnerabilities. Additionally, Microsoft does not endorse these solutions, leaving users without official support if issues arise. For many, these challenges make upgrading to Windows 11 a complex and uncertain process. Windows 10 Four Months to Go
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Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in Windows 10. Your Options Moving Forward
As the end of Windows 10 support approaches, users must carefully consider their options. Each choice comes with its own advantages and challenges, making it important to align your decision with your specific needs and priorities. Here are some of the most viable options: Continue Using Windows 10: While this option allows you to maintain your current setup, it exposes your system to significant security risks due to the lack of updates.
While this option allows you to maintain your current setup, it exposes your system to significant security risks due to the lack of updates. Run Windows 10 Offline: Disconnecting your device from the internet can reduce security risks, but it limits functionality for users who rely on online services.
Disconnecting your device from the internet can reduce security risks, but it limits functionality for users who rely on online services. Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs): Microsoft offers ESUs for businesses and educational institutions, but they are costly and not typically available to individual users.
Microsoft offers ESUs for businesses and educational institutions, but they are costly and not typically available to individual users. Use Third-Party Security Patches: Companies like 0patch provide unofficial updates, but these solutions come with limited guarantees and potential risks.
Companies like 0patch provide unofficial updates, but these solutions come with limited guarantees and potential risks. Migrate to Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC: This version offers extended support but requires a fresh installation and additional licensing fees.
This version offers extended support but requires a fresh installation and additional licensing fees. Switch to Linux-Based Operating Systems: Free Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS provide secure alternatives. However, compatibility with Windows-specific software, such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop, may require additional adjustments.
Each of these options has its own implications for security, cost, and convenience. Evaluating these factors will help you make an informed decision. Hybrid Strategies for Greater Flexibility
For users who are not ready to fully commit to a single solution, hybrid strategies can offer a balanced approach. These methods allow you to maintain access to familiar software while improving security and extending the life of your hardware. Some effective hybrid strategies include: Dual Boot Systems: Install a Linux-based operating system alongside Windows 10. Use Linux for secure online activities and Windows for offline tasks or software that requires the Windows environment.
Install a Linux-based operating system alongside Windows 10. Use Linux for secure online activities and Windows for offline tasks or software that requires the Windows environment. Linux with a Windows Virtual Machine: Run Windows software securely within a Linux environment. This minimizes online risks while retaining access to essential Windows applications.
Run Windows software securely within a Linux environment. This minimizes online risks while retaining access to essential Windows applications. Windows 10 with a Linux Virtual Machine: Use Linux for internet-based tasks while continuing to use Windows for offline applications. This approach helps mitigate security risks without requiring a complete transition.
These strategies provide flexibility and allow users to adapt their systems to meet their specific needs, offering a practical way to navigate the transition away from Windows 10. Environmental Impact: Planned Obsolescence and E-Waste
The end of support for Windows 10 raises broader concerns about planned obsolescence and the growing issue of electronic waste. Many older devices that cannot meet the requirements for Windows 11 may be discarded, contributing to the global e-waste problem. This issue underscores the importance of sustainable technology practices and highlights the need for solutions that extend the lifespan of existing hardware.
Exploring alternatives such as Linux-based operating systems or using virtual machines can help reduce e-waste by keeping older devices functional. These approaches not only benefit the environment but also provide cost-effective ways to maintain productivity and security. Making the Right Choice: Security, Cost, and Convenience
Deciding how to proceed after Windows 10 support ends depends on your individual priorities. If security is your primary concern, upgrading to a supported operating system or adopting a hybrid strategy is essential. For those seeking a cost-effective solution, Linux-based alternatives offer a free and secure option, though they may require some adjustments to your workflow.
Regardless of the path you choose, it is crucial to act before October 2025. Taking proactive steps now will ensure your digital safety, minimize disruptions, and help you transition smoothly into a post-Windows 10 era. By evaluating your options and planning ahead, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and priorities.
Media Credit: Explaining Computers Filed Under: Guides
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Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... America's block reward miners are hoping Chinese ASIC manufacturers move swiftly on expanding U.S. production facilities because mining margins are currently thinner than Melba toast. JPMorgan (NASDAQ: JPM) declared this week that the combined share of the 13 U.S.-listed mining operators they track now accounts for 31.5% of the overall BTC network hash rate, a new all-time high (the overall U.S. miners' share has been estimated at over 40%). The gains reflect the increasingly welcome climate for stateside miners since Donald Trump's second stint as U.S. president began in January. So much for the good news, the BTC network hash rate has dipped below 900 EH/s since June began but continues to hover near all-time highs, which is pushing up production costs. 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That may be what miners need, but the current state of BTC offers no sign of this fee/reward flip happening anytime soon. Daily activity on BTC was struggling to stay above 300,000 transactions last week and has rallied only slightly this week. Further complicating matters are the economic tariffs that Trump has imposed on nearly all other countries since he took office. With the leading mining rig manufacturers all based outside the U.S.—primarily in China and other Southeast Asian countries—the costs of importing rigs have taken a big bite out of U.S. miners' margins. That latter category now includes American Bitcoin Corp (ABTC), the mining joint venture of the Trump family and miner Hut 8 (NASDAQ: HUT). But relief may be on the way, as Reuters offered an update on efforts by the three largest foreign manufacturers—Bitmain, Canaan, and MicroBT, collectively responsible for over 90% of mining rig production—to establish U.S. bases of operation and ensure a steady tariff-free flow of ASICs to U.S.-based miners. Bitmain began churning out rigs in the U.S. last December, while Canaan started a production trial in April. However, the company cautioned that there's some hesitancy in going full-bore given the mercurial nature of Trump's tariff approach. MicroBT has yet to announce any concrete plans but claims to be 'actively implementing a localization strategy in the U.S.' to minimize tariff impact. While this is music to most miners' ears, U.S. ASIC-maker Auradine, which counts U.S. mining giant MARA (NASDAQ: MARA) among its investors, has been lobbying the government to impose tougher restrictions on Chinese firms to 'strengthen national security in critical infrastructure.' Shortly after Trump took his second oath of office, Auradine suggested 'implementing rigorous compliance standards for imported technology' and mandating 'cybersecurity assessments for foreign-made components in Bitcoin mining and electric grid management.' For what it's worth, Canaan's biz-dev VP Leo Wang rejected this alarmist national security view, telling Reuters that mining rigs 'are useless if not applied to Bitcoin mining.' Regardless, Auradine urged the president to 'expediently' reduce miners' reliance on Chinese vendors 'to ensure economic security.' Auradine also suggested 'expanded incentives, such as tax credits or direct subsidies,' should be offered to U.S. manufacturers (the suggested duration of this proposed corporate welfare went unstated). France rejects (for now) state-run mining Miners rejoiced as Trump made good on his 2024 campaign pledge to loosen environmental restrictions on power generation to ensure America becomes 'the world's undisputed Bitcoin mining powerhouse.' As production costs rise, ensuring access to cheap and plentiful energy can make the difference between profit and loss. Pakistan recently announced plans to reallocate its surplus energy—largely due to Pakistani households going off-grid by deploying cheap solar panels from China—toward mining BTC and powering AI data centers. Other countries have encouraged similar efforts in regions where power is plentiful and demand is slack. But not every country is ready to hop on this bandwagon. France, which has an extensive nuclear power program that generates more power than the country requires, recently entertained a proposal in its National Assembly to study the possibility of devoting some surplus energy to mining BTC. Despite the promise of the state generating additional revenue by launching a state-run mining operation, the proposal was rejected by the National Assembly this week. However, the rejection was not based on the proposal's merits but on procedural grounds (the language was deemed overly broad and unrelated to the legislation it attempted to piggyback). So this proposal may come up again soon, as France's energy surplus isn't going away. And without any other serious solutions on offer, why not choose a path that allows the country to generate revenue? Back to the top ↑ Russia Russia Russia Russia is a country that is lousy with gas and oil, but its creaky electricity grids are routinely teetering on the brink, so much so that the government has imposed both seasonal and geographic restrictions on BTC mining operations in recent years. In February, Russia launched a mandatory registry for mining gear and ordered miners to report their earnings to the Federal Tax Service. However, the TASS news agency reported this week that only 30% of Russian miners have bothered to sign up for the registry, leading Deputy Finance Minister Ivan Chebeskov to quip that roughly two-thirds of miners need to be 'cleaned up.' Russia has attempted to deal with its recalcitrant miners by drawing up new financial penalties for failing to abide by the rules. This month, the Ministry of Digital Development announced plans to impose new fines of up to RUB 2 million (US$25,500) for companies and RUB 200,000 for individuals. In May, Russia's Ministry of Energy mulled offering registered miners incentives to relocate their operations to the country's northern regions, where the sparse population offers greater grid flexibility. Deputy Energy Minister Yevgeny Grabchak noted that the region was dotted with power centers that once served oil production facilities, but these oil fields are now tapped out, leaving an energy surplus that he believed could be of use to BTC miners. As Russia tries to rein in mining excesses, illegal mining operators are getting creative to frustrate the authorities' efforts. Last week, TASS reported that authorities in the Buryatia region had busted an illegal mining operation being run out of the back of a tractor truck. A routine inspection by local officials discovered 95 mining rigs hooked up to 'a transformer substation capable of providing power to a small settlement.' Two suspects believed to be running this operation fled in an SUV. The authorities said it was the sixth case of 'electricity theft using mining equipment' in Buryatia since the seasonal restrictions were imposed. Back to the top ↑ xAI slammed for passing gas in Memphis A new study claims the electricity demands of AI large language models (LLMs) will account for 49% of global data center power usage by the end of this year, dethroning BTC miners as the preeminent power-hoovering technology. That said, since so many miners have 'pivoted' to the more reliable revenue streams that AI and other high-performance computing (HPC) tasks provide, they're not exactly off the hook just yet. AI's insatiable energy demands have been credited with driving the rush by AI developers, including Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), Google (NASDAQ: GOOGL), Meta (NASDAQ: META), and others to sign nuclear power deals to ensure their LLMs don't lose ground to more reliably-powered competitors. Enter Elon Musk, who in 2021 famously halted customers' ability to buy Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) vehicles with BTC due to the blockchain's high energy demands and reliance on fossil fuels. Fast forward to 2025, and Musk is being threatened with a lawsuit for allegedly hiding the dirty energy powering his xAI LLM. The Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) filed a remarkable letter detailing its evidence of the more than two dozen allegedly unauthorized methane gas turbines in action at xAI's 'Colossus' data center in South Memphis, Tennessee. The letter features aerial thermal imagery of the data center's turbines, which the SELC claims are on pace to emit 'more than 2,000 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides' annually. The turbines were originally installed under what local authorities claim was a '364-day exemption' from having to obtain the necessary permits. The SELC says these same authorities have yet to produce any documentation explaining the rationale behind this claim. The letter gives xAI 60 days to rectify the situation—aka shut down the turbines—or the SELC will sue the company in federal court on behalf of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for violating the Clean Air Act. Neither xAI nor Musk have yet to publicly respond to the SELC letter, but given that xAI is building a second, even larger data center in the Memphis area, let's just say this was probably a really bad time for Elon to have had a very public bust-up with the fossil-fuel loving president. Back to the top ↑ Bitdeer borrows, investors punish U.S. miners have been taking on significant debt of late as they try to (a) leap ahead of rivals' ability to mine new blocks, (b) diversify their operations into data centers for AI/HPC tasks, and (c) buy BTC tokens for their treasuries. After turning in a somewhat grim Q1 earnings report, Bitdeer (NASDAQ: BTDR) announced this week that it was looking to raise $300 million, then upsized that total to $330 million the following day, with a possible further boost to $363 million. The company said it will use the proceeds to pay the costs associated with raising new debt, expanding its data center operations, developing new ASIC rigs, and other general expenses. Investors gave an emphatic thumbs-down to the news, pushing Bitdeer's share price down from nearly $13 to $11.50 on Tuesday. The shares staged a minor rally Wednesday but ultimately closed down more than 7% to $11.80. One can't help but wonder if Bitdeer had, like so many of its peers, claimed that it was raising hundreds of millions of dollars in new debt to buy BTC that it would park in some cold wallet and hope for a major appreciation down the road, would its share price have risen? We suspect it would. If you wanted a more damning indictment of the overall mining sector, you couldn't do much better. Back to the top ↑ Watch | Bitcoin mining in 2025: Is it still worth it? title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="">
