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June 5, 2025

Microsoft Faces ‘Tech Extortion’ Accusations as Windows 10 Support Ends: A Call to Consider Upgrading to Linux

 

KDE has initiated a campaign specifically aimed at persuading Windows 10 users to switch to Linux as Microsoft nears the End of Life for Windows 10. The campaign accuses Microsoft of ‘tech extortion’ due to the push to upgrade to Windows 11, which may not be compatible with older PCs.

As Windows 10 approaches its support cutoff on October 14, 2025, several groups have emerged encouraging users to migrate to Linux as an alternative. The KDE initiative portrays this transition as critical, stating that running Windows 10 post-support will leave systems vulnerable to security risks and deem them obsolete.

The KDE campaign goes further, suggesting that Microsoft’s new hardware requirements for Windows 11 could impose an unjust burden on users who might not be able to afford new machines. They claim that this forces users into a cycle where they have to purchase new systems, leading to electronic waste and harming the environment.

KDE’s message stresses that without updates, Windows 10 will become insecure, and that users will eventually need to buy new hardware to comply with Microsoft’s specifications. They caution that millions of old computers could end up in landfills as a result of this decision, generating unnecessary pollution.

Although KDE uses strong language to criticize Microsoft, such claims of extortion are contested. While the upgrade demand is frustrating for many, Windows 10 has been operational for nearly a decade and represents a significant value for its users. Microsoft does provide options for extended support for those willing to pay, which offers a continuum of service and security.

While switching to Linux can extend the life of older hardware, it’s not a straightforward process for less tech-savvy users. They may face challenges, including unfamiliar interfaces and potential compatibility issues with applications and hardware. The Linux community offers support, but not everyone may be comfortable navigating these changes, thus presenting a barrier to those less confident in their technical skills.

Despite the valid environmental concerns, the accusation of extortion may not accurately represent the situation. Microsoft’s promotional efforts have been met with criticism in the past, particularly regarding the inclusion of advertisements within the paid operating system. However, users looking for extended lifespans for their devices may find Linux to be a valuable alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges.


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