As the end of Windows 10 looms, check out this Linux migration tool that lets you leave the Microsoft ecosystem while preserving your data and applications—although it’s limited to a single distribution.

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The end of official support for Windows 10 is fast approaching, scheduled for October 2025. This moment marks a crucial step for millions of users who will have to choose between updating their system to Windows 11, continuing to use Windows 10 with temporary solutions, or opting to migrate to open-source alternatives. Faced with the hardware and software constraints imposed by Windows 11, the transition to Linux is becoming increasingly attractive. In this article, a modern tool offers a simplified migration to Linux while preserving files, settings, and even applications, although for now limited to Kubuntu, a popular and powerful distribution. The challenge goes beyond the simple question of the OS: it’s about regaining control of your data, reducing electronic waste, and joining a freer and more user-friendly ecosystem. Understanding why the end of Windows 10 support is pushing Linux to be considered a viable alternative

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, a date now etched in the memories of IT enthusiasts and professionals. From that point on, security updates will no longer be provided, exposing systems to critical vulnerabilities. While users can technically continue using Windows 10, they will face a gradual degradation of their system’s security.

Microsoft offers two options to continue receiving security updates beyond this deadline:

Extended Security Updates (ESU): A paid program costing $30 per device for an additional year.

  • Sync via a Microsoft account: A free solution for one year, which requires using the cloud to back up settings and benefit from certain protections. These solutions are primarily aimed at businesses, as individuals are often less inclined to spend or commit to a new commitment.
  • However, these options don’t solve the problem in the long term. They only delay the end of support by one year. In fact, a significant portion of Windows 10 machines could quickly become obsolete, either due to a lack of compatibility with Windows 11 or due to the rejection of an OS deemed too demanding and restrictive. In this context, the question of migrating to Linux appears to be a real opportunity to:

Reuse hardware considered obsolete by Microsoft for Windows 11.

Avoid the massive accumulation of electronic waste by giving new life to the computer fleet.

Take control of your personal data by avoiding the advertising and telemetry inherent in proprietary systems. Several mainstream distributions such as

  • Ubuntu
  • ,
  • Mint

, Zorin OS, Pop!_OS, and Fedorahave seen growing interest in recent years, with intuitive interfaces tailored to newcomers while offering robustness and scalability. However, selecting and installing a dedicated distribution isn’t necessarily straightforward for a wide audience. Switching to Linux requires consideration of software compatibility, different update mechanisms, and hardware management. However, one migration tool stands out by offering an automated and integrated approach, promising to facilitate the transition. Discover the essential steps for a successful Linux migration. Explore best practices, recommended tools, and expert advice for a smooth transition to a powerful and secure operating system. A detailed overview of the Operese tool: simplifying the migration from Windows 10 to Kubuntu In the landscape of tools facilitating migration from Windows to Linux,

Operese

stands out as an innovative solution, still in its early stages, but full of promise. Its goal: to allow users to switch to Linux while retaining their personal files, system settings, installed applications, and even some user profiles.

Although the project is still in its infancy, its key features include:

Complete migration of personal files – documents, images, videos, etc., without requiring complicated backups. Transfer of system settings

– to preserve the working environment as it was under Windows, facilitating adaptation.

  • Limited application support – including applications compatible with Kubuntu via native packages or via technologies like Flatpak, Snap, or even Wine for certain Windows executables.
  • Automatic installation of Kubuntu – an Ubuntu-based distribution known for its stability and its modern and comprehensive KDE Plasma interface. Currently limited to Kubuntu, this restriction is not insignificant. Kubuntu is a Linux environment that strikes a good balance between familiarity for users accustomed to Windows and the power of a recognized community distribution. This choice is relevant in that it offers a balance between simplicity, aesthetics, and performance.
  • For older systems, this project is a breath of fresh air. Thanks to Operese
  • , the often-expressed fear of a sudden radical change is alleviated, as the migration handles a large number of settings without extensive manual intervention. This new tool is part of a broader initiative by the open-source community aimed at countering the phenomenon of

loss of computer equipment due to the end of Windows support.

and reduce the environmental impact caused by the mass replacement of machines. However, some limitations should be noted:A single distribution choice is not suitable for everyone, especially for users accustomed to variants such as Debian, Arch Linux, Fedora, or Manjaro.

Software compatibility is not universal, as some Windows programs only work partially or via emulation environments. As the project is in the development phase, major features are still experimental. However, this clear positioning allows for a gradual transition, avoiding the fear often associated with Linux switches.

  • How to Ensure Data Backup and Application Compatibility Before Migration
  • Preserving the integrity and availability of personal data is a top priority when migrating from one system to another. The transition from Windows 10 to Linux, while accessible, requires methodical preparation. Analyzing and anticipating the compatibility of your favorite business tools or software is essential to avoid disappointments.
  • Recommended steps include:

Complete data backup

– use synchronization solutions like rsync, dedicate an external drive, or opt for Linux-compatible cloud services.

Application inventory

– list the software used, check its native availability on Linux or its compatibility via

Wine, Proton

  • or equivalent open source alternatives. Understanding package formats
  • – understand package management systems like APT for Ubuntu, Debian and derivatives, DNF
  • for Fedora, or universal packages like Snap and Flatpak . Testing Linux virtual machines – accessible distributions like Mint or Zorin OS can be tried live via USB boot or in a virtual environment (VirtualBox, QEMU). To illustrate, several critical open source solutions have seen their porting or support strengthened, such as the Firefox browser, the LibreOffice suite, and GIMP, which allow seamless continuity in most professional and personal activities. It’s also relevant to consider the performance achieved on Linux, which can be very satisfactory, particularly thanks to the regularly updated Linux kernel. Benchmarks, such as those published on native Linux kernel performance and other hardware layers, demonstrate significant gains, particularly for systems incorporating modern x86 processors.Finally, for businesses, the use of professional distributions such as Red Hat or stable community solutions such as Debian can be considered. These distributions have very active communities and numerous specific administration tools, which facilitate the management of the IT infrastructure after migration.
  • Discover everything you need to know about Linux migration: essential steps, best practices, and tips for a successful transition to a high-performance and secure operating system. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNefMRWoTx8 The ecological and economic impact of the massive switch to Linux in the face of the end of Windows 10 support

The gradual withdrawal of Windows 10 from Microsoft-supported systems will have a major impact on the management of both home and business computer systems. The rapid obsolescence induced by the new hardware requirements of Windows 11 is driving massive hardware upgrades, often to the detriment of the environment.

In comparison, Linux distributions adapt to a much wider range of hardware configurations, from the oldest to the most recent. This parameter is crucial for the circular economy in the IT sector: Reduced energy consumption – distributions such as Elementary OS or Ubuntu benefit from optimized kernels and energy-efficient tools.

Extended machine lifespan – everywhere, lightweight distributions such as Debian or Lubuntu (an ultra-lightweight variant of Ubuntu) make it possible to use previously neglected hardware. Reduced electronic waste – fewer new machine purchases, less clutter in landfills. Easier repairs

– Linux encourages reuse and customization rather than planned obsolescence.
Economically, this strategy is also advantageous. The absence of paid licenses for Linux, free updates, and robust systems reduce the overall IT budget. For SMEs and home users, Linux therefore represents a credible alternative, without compromising on performance. Initiatives like the “End of 10” project help raise user awareness by providing tools and documentation, promoting simplified and responsible transitions to Linux. They help limit the “huge increase in electronic waste” caused by the end of Windows 10 support.

From this ecological and economic perspective, switching to Linux appears not only as a pragmatic solution but also as a civic-minded approach, promoting open source, sustainability, and technological independence.

Discover everything you need to know about Linux migration: practical tips, best practices, and tools for a successful transition to this powerful and flexible operating system.

Community and Resources: Relying on the Linux Ecosystem for a Successful Transition

  • The success of a migration to Linux depends not only on technique but also on community support and available resources. The variety of Linux distributions, such as Arch Linux, Manjaro, Debian, and Zorin OS offer a range of options that can be tailored to individual needs and skills. Extensive online resources are available, including: Guides for Windows users switching to Linux – step-by-step guidance for the transition. Advanced documentation on Arch Linux and package management – for users seeking more control. A focus on Zorin OS, a distribution designed for easy transition from Windows – including a familiar touchscreen interface.
  • Linux security information and vulnerability management – understanding internal mechanisms and best practices. Recent Linux kernel updates and extensive hardware support – to stay at the cutting edge of performance. In addition, numerous active communities on Reddit, dedicated forums, GitHub, and Discord groups provide ongoing support. They allow both novices and advanced users to find solutions and share experiences. Involvement in these communities is therefore a key step in ensuring a smooth and confident transition to Linux, minimizing obstacles and maximizing personal and technical benefits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w_FCRCcT-4