Digital Protection Foundation

In a couple of months, on October 14th, 2025, Microsoft will discontinue security updates for Windows 10. Even though 60% of Windows computer run Windows 10 (double that of Windows 11) Microsoft will axe security updates for consumer user. Typically, the advice would be “just update to the latest version of Windows”, however; Windows 11 has a special requirement the need for a Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM 2.0). The module is used for handling drive encryption and Windows biometrics.

The TPM 2.0 specifications were publicly released in 2018 for manufactures and is now integrated into most consumer CPU’s. This means any computer pre 2018 and some post 2018 that may not have a TPM 2.0 cannot run Windows 11 and are stuck on Windows 10. Microsoft claims that TPM is needed in order to provide a secure experience on Windows.

For users stuck in such a situation, Microsoft recommends recycling your computer and purchasing a new system. Users with perfectly fine computers can use their current system and risk receiving malware or they can spend a bunch of money on a new computer.

It’s interesting that this forced protocol is all in the name of user “security” when by default, they collect browser history, what app you use and when, samples of content written or typed, and search terms.

It’s pretty clear Microsoft is artificially forcing users into buying new PCs where they get license kick back money, but even they know that not all users can afford hundreds of dollars on a new computer, so they will offer security updates on Windows 10 for those willing to pay $30 a year. How generous.

This situation will scalp users for millions and create thousands of tons in e-waste with people throwing out perfectly fine computers in order to run Windows 11. It’s been estimated that over 200 million Windows 10 PCs can become e-waste in the near future.

Users facing this problem have a couple solutions beyond those sanctioned by Microsoft.

1. TPM 2.0 Bypass

Although Microsoft clearly states that TPM 2.0 is an integral part of the minimum requirements, they have left a few loopholes to install Windows 11 on “unsupported hardware” Microsoft actually had a technical guide on bypassing the requirement but quietly removed it in December 2024… The information on how to bypass as Microsoft closes loopholes changes often, so refer to this guide from Tom’s Hardware.

2. Install Linux

Linux is great for handing web browsing, office work, videos, and even gaming using Steam Proton. Software support and usability of Linux has significantly matured in the past couple of years and can accomplish the needs of nearly all Windows users. Linux offers multiple desktop version called distros that can be easily installed to a computer using a USB drive. The most popular and user-friendly distros are Ubuntu, Manjaro, Mint, Pop! OS, and many more. There’s a lot to choose from that fit many needs.

3. Keep Using Windows 10

Windows 10 will still function fine after October 14; however, Microsoft won’t be providing security updates but plenty of free popular antivirus services still will. Antivirus like Malwarebytes and Avast will still offer security support. Although these are the best antivirus, there is still a security risk since Microsoft will no longer offer low level system security fixes these software can’t do.

While these options are great alternatives to the Microsoft sanctioned path, many non-technically inclined users will see that Microsoft says they need to get a new computer and will promptly do so; or they will keep running Windows 10 on unprotected computers. Millions of perfectly fine devices will end up as e-waste in the coming years all in the name of “security”.