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Feb 15, 2024 · Want to keep your old Windows 10 PC, but maintain support after October, 2025? Google says to use ChromeOS Flex.
- Anton Shilov
Feb 15, 2024 · For starters, Chrome OS Flex, like the original Chrome OS, is secure, with built-in data encryption, automatic updates, and sandboxing, doesn’t require antivirus software, and it’s the...
Feb 14, 2024 · ChromeOS Flex is a low-maintenance, reliable operating system, reducing the need for IT support. Google provides regular software updates and security patches for ChromeOS Flex, ensuring your...
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Google's auto-updating ChromeOS Flex offers a stable future to Windows 10 holdouts.
•Google is pitching its ChromeOS Flex operating system as an alternative to Microsoft's Windows 10 once it hits its cutoff date, further stating that it will extend the lifespan of existing devices and reduce e-waste.
•Microsoft is set to cut support for Windows 10 next year in October.
•This move could potentially render millions of old PCs obsolete.
Microsoft's Windows 11 operating system has been available for almost three years now. However, its adoption has been rather slow for varied reasons, including the stringent system requirements for the OS.
Windows 10 continues to dominate the market share with a 66.45% stake, while Windows 11 comes in second with 27.83%. Microsoft has been urging users to upgrade to Windows 11 ahead of Windows 10's cutoff date, which is slated for October 2025. The tech giant has heightened pressure on Windows 10 users to make this upgrade, and was recently spotted using full-screen multipage popup ads to further this agenda.
As it happens, there might be an extended lifeline for users who may not be able to upgrade to Windows 11. Google will let businesses install an auto-updating version of ChromeOS Flex on Windows devices that are not eligible to upgrade to Windows 11, while simultaneously ascertaining security and sustainability.
Google's decision will allow users to continue using their old PCs, even after Microsoft cuts support for Windows 10. Last year, a public interest research group filed a petition asking Microsoft to reconsider its decision to cut support for Windows 10. The group pointed out that over 40% of users still run Windows 10.
Consequently, if Microsoft moves forward with its plan to cut support for the OS, it could potentially lead to "the single biggest jump in junked computers ever." This will push the company further away from its sustainability and environmental goals.
When Microsoft cuts support for its Windows 10, it'll no longer ship updates, new features, or bug fixes to the OS. This will leave users who continue using the OS susceptible to malicious attacks from hackers. However, Google's ChromeOS Flex OS will continue receiving regular security updates and features, thus allowing users to keep using their existing PCs.
Microsoft introduced an "extended security update" (ESU) program for Windows 10, which is in place to allow users to pay for monthly security updates beyond Windows 10's end-of-support date. The ESU program adds three years of continued support from Microsoft for Windows 10 after officially cutting support for the OS.
Google says, "If you’ve used Chrome Browser or have Google Workspace, ChromeOS Flex will be a natural addition to your organization." And while ChromeOS stacks miles behind Microsoft's Windows OS market share, the former presents Windows 10 users with a more viable option that lets them retain their existing devices and continue to receive regular security updates (especially after Microsoft cuts support for Windows 10).
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Feb 15, 2024 · Microsoft officially ends support for Windows 10 in October 2025, and while it's pledged to extend security updates for those who can't make the move to Windows 11, it won't be free. If...
- Joe Hindy
- Contributor
Jul 22, 2024 · It's important to acknowledge that security isn't solely about the operating system. User behavior plays a crucial role. Both ChromeOS and Windows benefit from responsible user practices, such as avoiding suspicious websites and exercising caution with email attachments.
People also ask
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Feb 12, 2024 · If you've got an old PC running Windows 10, the deadline you have to keep in mind is the end-of-support date for that operating system: October 14, 2025. Unless you're willing to pay...
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related to: is chromeos a secure operating system for my computer windows 10 support team phone numberMobilize Your Employees While Reducing Cost with Chrome Enterprise Upgrade at CDW. Seamlessly Integrate Chrome Devices with Chrome Enterprise Upgrade. Sign Up for a Trial.
