The Computer Upgrade Dilemma: Weighing Compatibility Against Privacy and Cost

The end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, has left millions of users facing a critical decision. Since many of those devices do not meet the strict hardware requirements for Windows 11 -- such as the mandatory Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and specific CPU generations -- they are suddenly deemed obsolete.

My recommendation for anyone with a perfectly functional Windows 10 machine is clear: do not rush out to buy a new computer. If spending money on a new PC is not an option, and you want to maintain a safe and secure computing environment, the most reliable and cost-effective solutions are to install ChromeOS Flex or a supported Linux distribution. These free operating systems can provide the necessary security updates and breathe new life into older hardware, keeping it out of the e-waste stream.

However, my approach is not universal, and I admit that not everyone agrees with it. For many users, the idea of leaving the Windows environment presents a significant roadblock, regardless of the savings or security gains. This video from Britec on YouTube makes a strong case for that alternative viewpoint.

[YouTube]

For the video presenter, and for many others like him, the loss of certain proprietary software and the hassle of finding alternatives are valid reasons to avoid switching operating systems. My arguments about extending hardware life and ensuring security do not convince him, and his arguments about the difficulty of compatibility do not change my conviction about saving money and protecting privacy.

Ultimately, each person has his own idea of what he wants from his computer, and what he will settle for. This includes the viewers and readers. I respect them enough to acknowledge their concerns, and presented this video as a key counterpoint to my own position.

My Streaming Life is about making choices that prioritize my time and budget without compromising on security or being forced into unnecessary spending.