Windows 10 is about to die, KDE invites users to the Linux world

Early last month, the open source operating system community was abuzz with the Linux (specifically KDE)-backed 'End of 10' initiative, which aimed to guide people to 'save' their Windows 10 PCs that were nearing the end of support by installing Linux. Now, as the October 14, 2025 deadline for Windows 10's official end of support approaches, KDE is urging—or rather inviting—what it calls 'Windows 10 exiles' to consider switching to the open source world.

KDE's message is pretty straightforward: your Windows 10 computer is about to become "junk" and "officially obsolete" as soon as Microsoft stops supporting it. The organization paints a grim picture of unpatched bugs that will lead to increased cyberattacks, potentially exposing your data and stealing your identity.

Beyond security, KDE claims that new versions of apps will stop working, and that Microsoft will actually block upgrades to newer versions of Windows unless you buy new hardware. KDE calls this 'tech extortion' and points to the environmental impact of discarded PCs. The alternative is to 'upgrade smartly' by keeping your existing hardware and installing Linux, specifically highlighting the Plasma desktop environment, which is said to run smoothly even on 10-year-old machines.

To attract users, KDE details why Plasma might be the right choice:

1. Familiar Interface: This environment aims for a familiar feel, with a launch menu and workspace similar to what Windows users are already familiar with.
2. Extensive customization: Allows you to mimic the look of Windows, macOS, or create something completely unique.
3. Free & Transparent: Open source and developed by a non-profit organization.
4. Powerful features: Like multiple virtual desktops and built-in connectivity tools in Dolphin file manager for servers and cloud services.

Recognizing that switching operating systems is a big step, KDE also offers advice for the process. They admit that Linux 'does take some getting used to,' and encourage new users to lean on the community for help. Another key piece of advice is to not expect identical applications to those on Windows, but to look for Linux apps that perform similar functions, noting that some essential software like Firefox and LibreOffice are often pre-installed. For additional software, KDE points to package managers like their Discover app, which acts as an app store.

KDE also outlines what they believe Windows users will not have to worry about when switching to Linux, such as viruses, injected advertising, spyware, forced updates, and mandatory account registration. The easiest way to get started is to download a Linux distribution (or 'distro') that comes with KDE Plasma as its default desktop environment. Some good choices include Kubuntu, Fedora KDE Spin, openSUSE, and KDE Neon. But as KDE notes, Plasma isn't the only option. Other desktop environments like GNOME, Xfce, and Cinnamon are also worth checking out.

Lesley Montoya

Update 07 June 2025