Website
Optimisation
Support
Training
Blog
db8
Portfolio
Reviews
Contact
Linux is the alternative now that Windows 10 is disappearing
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10. The Linux operating system can be a strong alternative. Linux is open-source software and, just like Joomla, it is maintained by a large community of volunteers.
For millions of Windows 10 users, this means that starting in October no more security updates will be released, making their system unsafe. Switching to Windows 11 may seem like the logical step. However, many older laptops do not meet the stricter system requirements. Still, these devices don’t have to end up as e-waste. With Linux, they can get a second life.
In Nijmegen, this idea is being put into practice. The Linux User Group Nijmegen organized two so-called Linux Install Parties in September 2025, where volunteers helped visitors install Linux on their old laptops.
Linux Install Party 1: De Klinker, Nijmegen
On Tuesday evening, September 9, 2025, the first Install Party was held at De Klinker. Ten visitors brought their Windows 10 laptops.
The results of the evening:
- 7 laptops now successfully run Linux
- 3 laptops had issues
- One mini-laptop turned out to likely still be 32-bit
- A Lenovo IdeaPad 110 wouldn’t let us into the BIOS and kept booting Windows
- A Packard Bell had a display problem, probably hardware-related
One HP laptop also caused a lot of headaches. The device kept freezing in Windows, despite several BIOS adjustments. In the end, the solution was surprisingly simple: in Windows itself, under advanced settings, USB3 support had to be set to "Automatic". After that, the laptop booted from the Linux USB stick without any issues. The atmosphere was good, with plenty of learning and laughter. Some new Linux users even said they’d like to attend a regular Linux Nijmegen meeting.
Linux Install Party 2: Nijmegen Library
Two weeks later, on Sunday afternoon, September 21, 2025, the second Install Party took place, this time at the public library of Nijmegen. Eight volunteers were ready to assist visitors. The afternoon was lively and well attended, with even someone who had traveled all the way from Schiedam. Many people personally thanked the volunteers for their help.
Not everything went smoothly: during the presentation, the big screen didn’t work with Oscar’s laptop. Luckily, the issue was solved creatively on the spot, allowing the presentation to continue. That same presentation sparked an interesting discussion about support. A visitor pointed out that the library offers support for Windows and macOS. It was then clarified that this does not apply to Linux—exactly why community efforts and gatherings like these are so important.
The results of the afternoon:
- 22 laptops now successfully run Linux
- 3 laptops had issues
Linux gives computers a second life
The Install Parties in Nijmegen showed that switching to Linux is feasible and valuable for many users. Not every laptop proved suitable, but most are now running smoothly on Linux. Visitors went home with a safe, fast, and ready-to-use computer. And often with a smile.
The message is clear:
- Windows 10 support ends, but your computer doesn’t have to
- Linux is safe, reliable, and free of charge
- Switching together makes it easier, and more fun
If you’re curious whether Linux could be something for you, you can join the monthly meetings of the Linux User Group Nijmegen.
More information can be found at www.linuxnijmegen.nl.
