As the clock ticks down to October 14, 2025, a seismic shift looms on the horizon for millions of computer users worldwide.

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10, a decision that will leave an estimated 200 to 400 million devices vulnerable to security risks without further updates or patches. This deadline, long anticipated but now urgently pressing, poses a critical decision for individuals and organizations alike: upgrade to Windows 11 with its stringent hardware requirements, pay for extended security updates, or explore alternative operating systems.

The Document Foundation, a key player in the open-source software community, is seizing this moment to advocate for a radical pivot. Through their blog post on June 11, 2025, they align with the international campaign “End of 10” to urge users to consider Linux as a viable, secure, and cost-effective alternative to Microsoft’s ecosystem, as highlighted by The Document Foundation Blog. This campaign underscores the potential e-waste crisis, with millions of devices potentially rendered obsolete due to Windows 11’s hardware demands.

A Fork in the Digital Road

For many, upgrading to Windows 11 is not a straightforward choice. The new operating system requires modern hardware, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capabilities, which many older machines lack. This leaves users with a stark dilemma: invest in new hardware at a significant cost or risk running an unsupported OS with escalating security threats. The Document Foundation argues that this is an opportune moment to break free from the cycle of forced upgrades and vendor lock-in.

Their proposed solution, Linux, paired with LibreOffice—a free, open-source office suite—offers a compelling alternative. Unlike proprietary systems, Linux distributions can run efficiently on older hardware, extending the life of existing devices while providing robust security updates independent of a single corporation’s lifecycle policies. The Document Foundation Blog emphasizes that this approach not only saves money but also aligns with growing concerns over data privacy and user autonomy in an era of pervasive surveillance.

Privacy and Control in Focus

Privacy has become a battleground in the digital age, with increasing scrutiny over data collection practices by major tech firms. Windows 11’s integration of features like AI-driven Copilot has raised eyebrows among privacy advocates, who question the extent of data shared with Microsoft. In contrast, Linux offers users greater control over their systems, with transparent codebases that can be audited by the community, a point strongly made in The Document Foundation Blog.

Moreover, LibreOffice provides a full-featured alternative to Microsoft Office, supporting open document formats that ensure long-term accessibility without proprietary constraints. This is particularly crucial for organizations managing sensitive data, where vendor independence can be a strategic asset. The push towards Linux and LibreOffice isn’t just about cost—it’s a philosophical stand for user empowerment.

The Road Ahead

As the end of Windows 10 support approaches, the tech industry braces for a wave of transitions. Will users cling to familiarity, shell out for upgrades, or embrace the open-source ethos? The Document Foundation’s campaign, backed by initiatives like “End of 10,” aims to tip the scales towards the latter, framing this moment as a chance to redefine digital freedom.

For IT managers and decision-makers, the stakes are high. Balancing budgets, security, and user training will be paramount. Yet, as The Document Foundation Blog suggests, the end of Windows 10 could mark the beginning of a broader shift—a move towards systems that prioritize sustainability and user rights over corporate mandates. The countdown is on, and the choices made in the coming months could shape the tech landscape for years to come.