The end of the Support for Windows 10 is closer and KDE starts a provocative campaign to win users for Linux. The initiative advertises environmental protection and free software, but also harvests criticism because it spans the arch of truth.
Campaign for transferors
The watch ticks for many users, because on October 14, 2025, support for Windows 10 ends. While Microsoft wants to move the users of the expiring operating system to Windows 11, the Linux community now sees its chance. The KDE organization has therefore started a campaign that is intended to target Windows 10 users whose computers do not meet the system requirements for Windows 11.
With partially drastic formulations, KDE advertises to switch to Linux with the Plasma desktop environment. KDE’s message is unmistakable: after the end of the support, the Windows 10 computer will be “officially outdated”. The organization draws a dark picture of uncomfortable security gaps that could lead to increased risks. KDE also warns that new application versions may no longer work. As an alternative, the organization suggests maintaining existing hardware and installing Linux-in particular the plasma desktop environment, which should still run well even on ten-year-old computers.
How Neowin reports, the campaign is a continuation of the “End of 10” initiative, which was already started in May. KDE even accuses Microsoft of “technical extortion” because the company has effectively blocking upgrades to recent Windows versions, provided that no new hardware is purchased. The environmental impacts by thrown away PCs are also discussed.
Familiar surface
In order to make the switch tasty, KDE emphasizes the similarity of the plasma interface with Windows. The start menu and the work area are intended to familiarize Windows users, but at the same time offer extensive adaptation options. Plasma is also free of charge as an open source project of a non-profit organization. Other advantages are multiple virtual desktops and the file manager dolphine with integrated connecting tools for servers and cloud services.
KDE admits that the switch to Linux requires “some acclimatization” and recommends newcomers to contact the community. An important note: You should not expect the exactly the same Windows programs, but look for Linux applications with similar functions. Many basic programs such as Firefox and LibreOffice are often preinstalled.
Criticism of the campaign
However, the aggressive tonality of the campaign does not encounter approval everywhere. Windows Latest the initiative describes as “about dramatic” and “panic theater”. The portal points out that Windows 10 computers will continue to work after the end of support-only security updates fall away. Microsoft also offers paid, extended security updates for another year.
