Stakes and migration: the impact of the end of Windows 10

Microsoft has officially announced the end of support for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025. In concrete terms, this means that hundreds of millions of users will have to consider a transition to a new operating system, in particular Windows 11. One of the main issues at stake in this development is the extent to which Windows 11 will be adopted. According to the Statcounter study, in April 2024, this system represented 70.03% of the global market. Conversely, Windows 11 saw a 1.03% drop in its share of users over the same period. Not to mention the end of support, which could be costly for the planet.

Why is Microsoft ending Windows 10?

The end of support for Windows 10 by Microsoft is part of a renewal strategy. The objective is clear: to encourage users to adopt Windows 11, which offers new features. This transition also allows the company to focus on development and support dedicated to Windows 11, rather than managing several versions simultaneously.

End of Windows 10: what environmental impact?

The subject is vast and quite alarming concerning the impact that such a decision entails.

Faced with the planned obsolescence of PCs running Windows 10 that will not be able to benefit from the update, Microsoft recommends buying a new device. Forcing users to part with working machines in order to acquire new ones. users to part with working machines in order to acquire new ones represents not only a significant financial cost, but also a heavy environmental impact. This approach could result in considerable waste. According to a study relayed by Clubic, more than 240 million computers are likely to be thrown away as a result of this decision. This figure includes not only the devices already in circulation, but also those already manufactured that can no longer be marketed.

If you decide to continue using a computer running Windows 10, it will no longer be updated. It becomes vulnerable with numerous security flaws. To remedy this, Microsoft plans to offer updates for Windows 10, but only to users who subscribe to a paid annual subscription. This service is limited to a maximum of three years, which leaves little margin to avoid the transition to Windows 11.
If your PC is not compatible with Windows 11, and you do not have a paid subscription, you will have to buy a new PC. If your PC is not compatible with Windows 11, and you don’t want to invest in new equipment, it might be a good idea to explore the alternatives offered by Linux, which can give your computer a second life.

Migration issues windows 10

Linux, a reliable alternative to Windows

If your hardware does not meet the requirements of Windows 11, Linux is an excellent alternative, especially for older machines.

Unlike the new versions of Windows, which often use a lot of resources, Linux is an operating system that improves performance on older hardware while offering a smooth and responsive interface. With distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian or AlmaLinux, it is possible to find a stable and efficient environment, even for professional use.

Opting for Linux also means choosing a free operating system, with no license costs, unlike Windows. What’s more, it allows you to extend the lifespan of your machines, thus avoiding costly hardware renewal and reducing the environmental impact.

Plan your move now with WAPT :

The transition to Windows 11 is approaching, and it is essential to ensure that your computer equipment is ready. Thanks to WAPT, you can easily check the compatibility of your workstations and prepare the upgrade.

Check the compatibility of your devices

 

Before any migration, make sure that your machines meet the requirements of Windows 11. To do this, deploy the package Windows 11 Requirements via WAPT. By consulting the Audit tab, you will obtain a detailed analysis of the prerequisites and will be able to identify the eligible workstations at a glance.

Upgrade to Windows 11 with ease

If your hardware is compliant, you can upgrade using the Windows 11 Upgrade Template package. This allows you to install the desired version of Windows 11. However, customization is necessary before deployment: remember to use the update-package command to adapt the process to your environment.
Thanks to WAPT, migrating to Windows 11 becomes a smooth process.

To conclude the article dedicated to the migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11, making such a decision is not without consequences. But the situation can also encourage companies to rethink their ways of operating in more responsible and economical ways.

Issues with Windows 10 migration Issues with Windows 10 migration Issues with Windows 10 migration

One of our customers gives us some feedback

The Grimaud company tells us about the migration to Windows 11 on their computer equipment.

Read the customer case
Demonstration

Group demo

17/04/2025 : 10h30 - 11h30

Let's go !