Microsoft’s products have had a mixed track record with privacy and security, particularly since the company’s heavy investment in Artificial Intelligence (see our opinions on Recall). However, the more recent version of Windows is designed to do a significantly better job of protecting you and your device from common security and privacy threats, compared to its predecessors whether it is Windows XP, Windows 7, or Windows 8.

What are my options?

There are a number of options available for users of computers running Windows 10. One option of course is to head off to the recycling centre (after being sure to clear all data from your device first!). But before disconnecting the storage drive and reaching for that drill, there might be other options for you to get use out of your old device. You don’t necessarily have to throw away your equipment just yet: you paid for it – and there’s also good environmental reasons for making (re-)use of the resources you have.

Below we provide an overview of some ideas that minimise e-waste without undermining your privacy and security. You might also learn some new tech skills and gain greater autonomy and control over the devices and your data in your life too. Ultimately, which option is best for you will depend on your needs and your level of comfort with technology.

1. Stick with Microsoft

There are options available if you want to keep running Windows 10 for another year. It will cost you (either in terms of your money or your data). And you are only delaying the inevitable (unless of course Microsoft change their minds about their ESU programme again…)

If your hardware is compatible, you can also upgrade to Windows 11 (currently for no charge). Even with hardware Microsoft has deemed incompatible there are still tools available to allow a Windows 10 to Windows 11 upgrade.

Otherwise, alternative channels other than the General Availability Channel version of Windows 11 (the ones that are available via retail), such as Windows 11 IoT LTSC, which has relaxed compatibility requirements and doesn’t bundle many of Windows 11’s most egregious privacy invasive features.

2. Switch to another Operating System (OS)

If you aren’t convinced by Microsoft’s offering, it’s normally possible to install an entirely new OS on your device. There are a number of different Linux distributions that have similar features to Windows (although not necessarily the same applications – for example, you’ll probably need to swap Microsoft Office for LibreOffice). The choices of Linux OS distributions can be overwhelming, and the best choice will depend on your hardware and needs, but something from the Ubuntu family is often a good place to start.

There are lots of guides online on how to get started with Linux, and you may even be able to find a support group near you to help through the process.

There is also a Google made operating system called ChromeOS, which has a generic version called “Flex”, if you are unconcerned with how Google exploit browsing data, this may also be an option.

3. Specialising

Sometimes the software you run on a device is more important than the operating system supporting it. Take for example a music player or a device you use to access films (such as a mediacenter). In which case an operating system that allows you to do that may be a good use case (e.g LibreELEC).

You could also convert an older device into a fileserver (using something like TrueNAS or openmediavault), webserver (e.g yunohost), Home Automation (e.g Home Assistant) or as a router (openwrt, ipfire, pfsense or opnsense).

4. Recycling

Sometimes it’s just the end of the road for a device. If it lacks the capability or capacity to remain useful or it poses an inherent risk due to damage or decay, getting rid may be your best bet. Depending on the type and manufacturing, it may be possible to recycle some or all of it into something more useful. Often the component parts (e.g. batteries, storage, memory) can be recycled or upcycled. Large manufacturers often have recycling programs that can give discounts on new hardware when you return your device to them. Depending on the condition of the device, there may be charities and associations within your area who also accept old(er) tech.

In conclusion

Long term support for software is best practice: without it, there are risks to privacy and security, and an increase in e-waste as otherwise functional devices get thrown away. That’s why PI has campaigned to extend the ‘best before date’ of devices: we want to see people being able to use technology safely and securely for as long as possible.

There might be all sorts of other reasons why you want to repurpose your device too. Perhaps its performance has become sluggish, or your needs have changed, or you’re trying to find better ways to manage your relationship with your tech.

In any case, people should have autonomy and control over the technology that they own and use. Too often, people’s interactions with technology take place on the terms dictated by large companies like Microsoft instead of prioritising the user’s best interests (in terms of finances, flexibility, function and privacy). The rather messy withdrawal of support for Windows 10 is a telling story about just how dependent we are on actors way beyond our control behaving responsibly for so many of our everyday needs.