Is it necessary to switch obsolete Windows 10 configurations to Linux rather than Windows 11?

[Joslet_Nicolas]

Is it necessary to switch obsolete Windows 10 configurations to Linux rather than Windows 11?

Introduction

The end of support for Windows 10 is approaching, leaving many users with a crucial choice: migrate to Windows 11 or explore the world of Linux distributions. This decision is not only a matter of preference but also of hardware compatibility, performance, and cost. The END OF 10 initiative advocates for a transition to alternative systems, highlighting the limitations of Windows 11 for older configurations.

After Windows 10, it’s not necessarily Windows 11

Windows 11 requires strict hardware prerequisites: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and processors dated after 2014. For many machines, migration to Windows 11 is impossible without modifications or workarounds. However, this does not necessarily mean that Linux is the universal solution.

Linux is not a universal solution either

While Linux offers a wide range of lightweight and efficient distributions, it is not without its challenges. The choice of distribution, driver compatibility, and adaptation for non-initiated users are all aspects to consider. Moreover, the idea of a “plug-and-play” Linux is often misleading. Some configurations require significant manual adjustments to achieve an acceptable level of performance.

But then, why is Linux a credible alternative?

Linux represents a serious alternative for machines that are incompatible with Windows 11 or for users seeking a more secure and lightweight environment. Its low resource consumption and wide range of distributions make it adaptable to various configurations. Additionally, the open-source aspect guarantees total control over the environment without additional costs.

Recommended Linux Distributions

Distribution	Graphical Environment	Minimum Requirements	Target Audience	Advantages	Disadvantages
Lubuntu	LXQt	1 GB RAM, 1 GHz CPU	Very lightweight machines, Atom, Celeron	Lightweight, fast, classic interface	Minimalist interface, fewer graphic effects
Linux Lite	XFCE	2 GB RAM, 1.5 GHz CPU	Old or low-powered PCs	Simplicity, good hardware support	Less graphical customization
MX Linux	XFCE	2 GB RAM, 1.5 GHz CPU	Intermediate machines	Powerful, low RAM consumption	Slightly outdated interface
Linux Mint XFCE	XFCE	4 GB RAM, 2 GHz CPU	Traditional users	Windows-like interface, stable	Requires a bit more resources
Zorin OS Lite	XFCE	4 GB RAM, 2 GHz CPU	Transition Windows/Linux	Modern interface, easy for beginners	Limited free version
Elementary OS	Pantheon	4 GB RAM, 2 GHz CPU	macOS alternative	Sleek and polished interface	Less customizable
Ubuntu	GNOME	4 GB RAM, 2 GHz CPU	Experienced users	Large community support	Resource-intensive
Manjaro	KDE, XFCE, GNOME	4 GB RAM, 2 GHz CPU	Advanced users, system tuning	Rolling Release, always up to date	Updates can sometimes be unstable

Processor Compatibility with Windows 11

Here is a summary table of the main configurations, their compatibility with Windows 11, and recommendations:

Brand	Model	Processor	Minimum RAM	Compatible with Windows 11	Remarks
Dell	Inspiron Series	Intel Core i3, i5, i7 (2014+)	8 GB	Yes	Native installation possible
HP	EliteBook, ProBook	Intel Core i5, i7 (2015+)	8 GB	Yes	Check if TPM 2.0 is enabled
Lenovo	ThinkPad T-Series	Intel Core i5, i7 (2015+)	8 GB	Yes	Secure Boot sometimes disabled by default
Acer	Aspire, TravelMate	Intel Core i3, i5 (2015+)	8 GB	To Test	Check drivers and TPM 2.0
ASUS	VivoBook, ZenBook	Intel Core i5, i7 (2015+)	8 GB	Yes	UEFI mode required
Intel	N Series, Celeron	Intel N4000, N5000, Celeron	8 GB	No	Lacks power for Windows 11
AMD	APU Series (NP1600…)	AMD NP1200, NP1600, APU E…	8 GB	No	Incompatible and underperforming

Migration Scenarios and Optimizations

Configuration Type	Recommended Migration Path	Recommended Tools
Compatible Configurations	Native installation of Windows 11 or optimization with Atlas OS, Tiny11	Media Creation Tool, Rufus, Atlas OS
Configurations to Test	Verify TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, otherwise Atlas OS or Tiny11	Rufus, Ventoy, Atlas OS
Non-Compatible Configurations	Migrate to Linux (Lubuntu, Mint XFCE, Zorin Lite)	Balena Etcher, Ventoy, Linux Mint ISO

Concrete Use Cases

1. Dell Inspiron 15 (2014, i5, 8 GB RAM) :

   • Migration to Windows 11 via Media Creation Tool, no modifications needed.
   • Lightweight alternative: Atlas OS for better speed.

2. HP ProBook 450 (2015, i5, 4 GB RAM) :

   • TPM 2.0 verification, Windows 11 installation possible with RAM upgrade (8 GB).
   • Alternatively, Atlas OS can be installed to reduce resource consumption.

3. Acer Aspire E1 (2013, i3, 4 GB RAM) :

   • TPM 2.0 not present, Linux Mint XFCE installation recommended.
   • Clean installation with Balena Etcher, quick and lightweight configuration.

4. Intel N4000 (Celeron, 4 GB RAM) :

   • Incompatible with Windows 11, migration to Lubuntu or Linux Lite recommended.
   • Installation via Ventoy for faster boot.

5. Lenovo ThinkPad T420 (2012, i5, 8 GB RAM) :

   • Migration to Linux Mint XFCE for a stable working environment.
   • Native driver support, Windows-like interface.

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Recommended Optimizations After Migration

• Mandatory SSD for Windows 11 and modern Linux installations to drastically improve performance.
• Minimum of 8 GB of RAM to avoid slowdowns, especially with modern Linux desktop environments (GNOME, KDE).
• Clean up unnecessary programs after installation: remove bloatware and unused applications.
• Update the BIOS and activate UEFI to ensure better hardware compatibility.

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Restarters.net Use Cases

On the Restarters.net platform, the discourse tends to favor Linux systematically, sometimes to the detriment of objectivity. The idea that an old PC must necessarily switch to Linux is overly simplistic. Forum discussions often lack structure and pragmatism, which may require:

• Closing unresolved discussions: Long debates without a clear conclusion should be archived to make room for more productive exchanges.
• Refocusing debates on concrete and documented cases: Rather than debating generalities, each topic should be illustrated with specific configurations.
• Avoid presenting Linux as the systematic “savior” of Windows 10: Although Linux is an excellent alternative, some systems can still function properly with Windows 11.
• Create a detailed optimized migration guide: Provide a structured document that allows each user to choose the best option based on their hardware.

Backup: A Real Need or a False Problem?

The debate over backup software is also a point of contention. Many believe that a simple copy/paste to an external hard drive or a USB key is enough. However, this approach neglects cases where data is scattered across multiple partitions or drives. Software automation is a viable option, but it must be adapted to the user’s storage structure.

Backup Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
Manual Copy/Paste	Simple, no third-party software needed	Risk of forgetting, does not handle multiple partitions
Veeam Backup, Acronis Backup	Automatic scheduling, easy restoration	Paid for certain features, requires disk space
Clonezilla, Macrium Reflect	Complete and fast restoration	Requires an equivalent or larger storage disk

Defining the Best Solution

To choose the most suitable solution, it’s important to ask the right questions:

1. Is your machine compatible with Windows 11?

   • If yes, a native or optimized installation (Atlas OS, Tiny11) is recommended.
   • If not, Linux becomes a logical alternative.

2. Are the performances sufficient?

   • With 8 GB of RAM and an SSD, Windows 11 is viable.
   • If the machine is limited in resources, Linux (Lubuntu, Linux Lite, Mint XFCE) is more suitable.

3. Do you need dual boot?

   • If certain applications only work on Windows, dual boot with Linux is an interesting option.

4. Which backup solution should you choose?

   • A dedicated software for automation (Veeam, Acronis) or a system image (Clonezilla, Macrium Reflect) for more security.
   • Manually copy personal files and explore important folders and secondary hard drives or partitions if they exist.

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Conclusion

The choice between Windows 11 and Linux must be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the hardware configuration, software needs, and the user experience sought. Neither is a universal solution, but both offer viable migration paths after Windows 10.

Discussions on Restarters.net should be clarified and refocused to avoid systematic bias. The END OF 10 initiative is an excellent foundation, but the transition must remain pragmatic and adapted to real user needs.

The debate over backup software is also a point of contention. Many believe that a simple copy/paste to an external hard drive or a USB key is enough. However, this approach neglects cases where data is scattered across multiple partitions or drives. Software automation is a viable option, but it must be adapted to the user’s storage structure.

[sami]

I think your Windows 11 CPU support is incorrect.

According to Microsoft you need an 8th gen or newer intel CPU to natively run windows 11. These came out in 2017 so the desktop/ laptop would need to be from 2018 to run Windows 11.

Windows Processor Requirements

I refurbish old laptops for donation and will be moving to Linuxmint (Cinnamon) with some instruction for the users on what the differences are. I hope this will be OK as i do not see any other option as 90% of the laptops I get will not run windows 11.

[Joslet_Nicolas]

This is exactly what I was pointing out regarding the narrow-mindedness around the end of Windows 10. Again, I’m not here to reignite a debate about Linux Mint or other distributions. In fact, I’m the first to promote Linux and I’m even pro-Linux at heart . But what bothers me here is this greenwashing trend: pushing Linux as the “only solution,” under the pretense that Microsoft has “abandoned” support for older processor generations. In reality, it’s not that black and white.

The list of processors published by Microsoft is complete, but it misses a crucial detail: the latest version of Windows 11 (23H2 and 24H2 ES - Extended Support), with Microsoft’s official unlock, supports a much broader range of 64-bit processors, even those that Microsoft supposedly removed for OEMs. Yes, Microsoft decided to drop support for 8th, 9th, and 10th-generation Intel CPUs for OEMs, but consumers are not affected. It’s a strategy of planned obsolescence, nothing more. In fact, the installation of an unmodified Windows 11 version from Microsoft’s MSDN goes perfectly fine on these machines, even the so-called “incompatible” ones.

Even better, I managed to install Windows 11 on i3-2xxx series processors, provided you start with an initial installation of 23H2. Once that step is completed, the update to 24H2 ES proceeds smoothly. And where it gets even more interesting is that on most branded laptops and PCs, you just need to activate the advanced options in the BIOS (often hidden by default), and you get access to Secure Boot. Once enabled, Windows 11 installs without a hitch.

For example, I even managed to install it on an old PackardBell with an AMD N1600. Let’s be honest, it’s a bit slow for Windows 11 (very very very veyr very very very very slowly even with 16GB of DDR3 and a good SSD), but the installation went through because Secure Boot and TPM (even 1.x and in rare case 2.x) were active. And it doesn’t stop there: I also installed four Dell Inspiron 17R SE today, all equipped with Ivy Bridge i5-3210M at 2.5GHz. Sure, PC Health Check complains a bit, but the installation goes smoothly. I just added a bit of RAM, and the generic NVIDIA drivers work perfectly for the GT 650M.

What needs to be understood is that a PC capable of supporting an SSD, a bit of extra RAM, and that isn’t crippled by ridiculous BIOS limitations, can perfectly run Windows 11, even if it’s a bit old. Now, are the ISOs we use in the company modified? Honestly, I have no idea, but I found the same versions with the same checksum online, and the link pointed directly to Microsoft’s servers.

I also recommend the tool Builder from rg-adguard.net. It’s really impressive, sometimes a bit slow to generate the ISOs, but of impeccable quality, and they are indeed official Microsoft versions. You even get the Insider options, so there’s nothing suspicious there.

In summary, this pseudo-obsolescence is just an illusion: with a bit of configuration, old PCs run perfectly well on Windows 11.

[neil]

Interesting, could you clarify what you are referring to by “Microsoft’s official unlock”?

[Joslet_Nicolas]

Hi @neil,

When I mention Microsoft Official Unlock, it’s actually a term we use among ourselves during Insider testing. It’s not an official label from Microsoft, but it represents the broader compatibility for processors in certain Insider Preview builds and versions labeled ES (Extended Support).

Additionally, through MSDN support, we are in direct contact with developers to provide feedback on hardware compatibility. This collaboration allows Microsoft to extend compatibility to more processors in these special builds. Our testing and feedback help them refine the lists and identify potential issues with older hardware configurations.

As professionals, we also likely have access to features and options that others might not. Some of these capabilities are what people outside the ecosystem often call “tweaks” or similar to what you can do with Rufus to bypass requirements during Windows 11 installation. These are not always publicized, but they exist within the ecosystem for testing and extended compatibility purposes.

Microsoft has been extending the list of compatible processors in these ES or so-called “Unlocked” versions… Its a nickname used among insiders and tech enthusiasts. This allows for installations on older CPUs that wouldn’t typically meet the Windows 11 hardware requirements.

If you want more information on this, you can check out the official Microsoft Windows Insider page or for more information on the MSDN Platforms subscription, you can visit the MSDN Platforms Services, Software, & Support page.

[Thomas_5228]

I would be wary of any solution that involves ‘unlocking’ Windows 11 to run on devices that aren’t officially supported, or aren’t advertised as supported. I don’t claim to be any kind of an expert, but from what I’ve read about this, these almost-supported machines need manual steps each year to receive the annual big Windows update. If you don’t do that, I don’t know how long you still get security updates for. I don’t want to leave someone who might not understand this not getting security updates.

If someone brings in a computer which is officially supported for Windows 11, or can easily be made so, e.g. by enabling a TPM or adding some RAM, I think helping them install Windows 11 should be the default option. Even if they specifically ask for Linux, I’d probably suggest they dual boot to start with, so upgrading Windows is the first step.

If someone comes with a computer that’s not supported for Windows 11 but still has more or less reasonable specs (e.g. at least 4 GB RAM), I would talk to them about Linux as an option, trying to be clear about what it can and can’t do, along with what it might cost to buy a new machine, or upgrade their computer to allow Windows 11 if that’s possible. If it seems like none of those options are palatable, then trying an unsupported upgrade to Win 11 is probably better than nothing.

Finally, if someone shows up with a really old or low-spec machine… unless they’re interested in playing with computers, I’m basically going to suggest getting a new computer, or at least a newer second hand one. I use Linux every day, and I’d gladly help people switch over, but I don’t think it can do that much to make these machines viable again. A lightweight desktop doesn’t help much when even note taking apps are built around an embedded browser. Even webapps running in the browser, like GMail, can use hundreds of MB of RAM.

[Joslet_Nicolas]

@Thomas_5228

I would be wary of any solution that involves ‘unlocking’ Windows 11 to run on devices that aren’t officially supported, or aren’t advertised as supported. I don’t claim to be any kind of an expert, but from what I’ve read about this, these almost-supported machines need manual steps each year to receive the annual big Windows update. If you don’t do that, I don’t know how long you still get security updates for. I don’t want to leave someone who might not understand this not getting security updates.

No, updates are done automatically, and in any case, they are forced either during shutdown or restart for advanced security updates. There may be a few optional updates that cause issues, but it’s rare.

@Thomas_5228

If someone brings in a computer which is officially supported for Windows 11, or can easily be made so, e.g. by enabling a TPM or adding some RAM, I think helping them install Windows 11 should be the default option. Even if they specifically ask for Linux, I’d probably suggest they dual boot to start with, so upgrading Windows is the first step.

Dual boot is what we call a “false good idea”. In theory, it allows you to have two operating systems on the same machine, giving you the option to choose at startup. But in practice, it can bring a number of issues, especially for inexperienced users.

1. Risk of GRUB (or Windows Bootloader) corruption
When installing Linux alongside Windows, the bootloader (GRUB for Linux) replaces the Windows one. If a Windows update modifies the bootloader (which happens quite often), GRUB might stop working properly. As a result, the user may end up with a PC that no longer boots into Linux or worse, doesn’t boot at all.

2. Partition problems
Dual boot requires partitioning the hard drive. A wrong manipulation can result in data loss, and even when done correctly, there can be conflicts between the two operating systems. Windows, for example, tends to modify certain partitions unilaterally, which can cause boot errors for Linux.

3. Chaotic updates
Windows updates (especially major ones) can overwrite some boot configurations. It is not uncommon to see users lose access to Linux after a Windows update because the default boot is reset.

4. Shared file access issues
Linux and Windows do not use the same file systems (NTFS for Windows, EXT4 for Linux). Although it is possible to access a Windows drive from Linux, the reverse is more complex and can lead to permission issues or even file corruption.

5. Performance and disk wear
Sharing the same disk for two OS increases read/write operations on the drive. Over time, this can accelerate its wear, especially on an SSD where the number of writes is limited.

A lots of pro recommend:

• Linux Live Boot: To test Linux, a live boot is more than enough. It allows Linux to be launched from a USB drive without touching the hard disk. The user can test the features, check hardware compatibility, and even access Windows files.
• Virtual Machine (VM): If the machine is powerful enough, installing Linux in a VM (via VirtualBox, VMware, or Hyper-V) is the cleanest option. It allows seamless switching between Windows and Linux without rebooting, and testing is entirely safe.
• Container (Docker): For those who want to experiment with Linux environments without full virtualization, Docker allows Linux containers to be launched directly under Windows with WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux).

@Thomas_5228

If someone comes with a computer that’s not supported for Windows 11 but still has more or less reasonable specs (e.g. at least 4 GB RAM), I would talk to them about Linux as an option, trying to be clear about what it can and can’t do, along with what it might cost to buy a new machine, or upgrade their computer to allow Windows 11 if that’s possible. If it seems like none of those options are palatable, then trying an unsupported upgrade to Win 11 is probably better than nothing.

With 4 GB of RAM, if the person doesn’t plan to invest in hardware upgrades, clearly NO, don’t suggest Windows 11 if they don’t want Linux. It would be a mistake, even when trying to be helpful. You have to stay professional and fair, even when volunteering your time. Simply tell them it’s better to keep their current OS and think carefully before making a decision. Also, take a look at their hard drive and suggest upgrading to an SSD if needed. If space allows, a NVMe in SATA 3.0 via an adapter is also a good option. Windows 11 is officially considered viable on a compatible PC with 4 GB of RAM, but I can assure you that’s not the case. Even with 8 GB, it can be a struggle. In fact, even Linux can struggle with 4 GB on reasonably good configurations. Think Tiny 11 or Atlas OS and don’t forget lightweight and secure browser (Brave but hum… Libre Wolf, fu****’ good).

@Thomas_5228

Finally, if someone shows up with a really old or low-spec machine… unless they’re interested in playing with computers, I’m basically going to suggest getting a new computer, or at least a newer second hand one. I use Linux every day, and I’d gladly help people switch over, but I don’t think it can do that much to make these machines viable again. A lightweight desktop doesn’t help much when even note taking apps are built around an embedded browser. Even webapps running in the browser, like GMail, can use hundreds of MB of RAM.

You are absolutely right, and I completely share your point of view. Although, I must admit, I’ve managed to pull off some miracles on some very, very old machines.

[Joslet_Nicolas]

I take a look at Anduin OS and…

AnduinOS is a new open-source Linux distribution developed by Anduin Xue, a Microsoft engineer. Released in a stable version today, it is designed to ease the transition from Windows to Linux, particularly for developers and users who are accustomed to Windows environments.

It’s based on Ubuntu and comes with a heavily customized GNOME desktop that mimics the look and feel of Windows 11 using 18 GNOME extensions pre-installed. The goal is to provide a familiar and smooth experience for newcomers to Linux.

Key Features

• Windows-like interface: A centered taskbar and a Start Menu similar to Windows 11.
• Privacy-focused: No data collection, telemetry, or tracking.
• Flatpak as the main app source: No Snap packages, making it cleaner and faster.
• Ubuntu-based: Full compatibility with apt packages and the Ubuntu software ecosystem.
• Lightweight and fast: Optimized for older machines; ISO weighs about 2GB.
• Open Source: Licensed under GPL-v3, the source code is freely available.

Download and Official Resources

• Official Website: anduinos.com
• Documentation: docs.anduinos.com
• Source Code (GitHub): github.com/Anduin2017/AnduinOS

First Impressions

After several hours of testing, AnduinOS is impressively smooth and responsive. Installation is fast, and the desktop is intuitive and especially for Windows users. Even on older hardware, performance remains solid.

Tested on an HP Pavilion 15 with i7-6700HQ / 8-16 Go Ram / GTX 960m (Anduin OS / WIN 11)

	Anduin OS	Windows 11	Windows 10
Boot time	8 sec	21 sec	28sec
Ready to work	32 sec	49 sec	53 sec
Libre Office load	11 sec	9 sec	16 sec
Open Office load	16 sec	23 sec	21 sec
VLC 1080P	1ms	1ms	1ms
VLC 2160P	1.4ms	1.3ms	1.6ms
VLC 4K	5ms	4.1ms	3.8ms
VLC global latency	2.1ms	1.9ms	2ms
Access disk (Crucial BX500 480Go)	instant	2 sec	2 sec
Unzip score (4Gb)	2.5 sec / 1897	12 sec / 741	16 sec / 689

This distro is ideal for people looking for a Linux system that doesn’t feel foreign. It’s perfect for testing, daily use, or introducing Linux to beginners.

Want to See It in Action?

Watch this presentation video:

If you’re curious about Linux but hesitant to leave the comfort of Windows, AnduinOS might just be the bridge you need.

[Len]

Just noticed - if you go to download version 1.1 (the one based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS) via direct HTTP - and change the language to English (United Kingdom) - you get a 404 error. Will see what it’s like on old equipment (the Core 2 Duo).

[Joslet_Nicolas]

Interesting! I just tested it on my end (Edge and LibreWolf browsers), and I didn’t encounter the 404 issue and the English (UK) version loads fine for me. Might be a temporary mirror sync issue or something browser/cache-related on your side. Let us know if it clears up!

Let us know how it performs on your Core 2 Duo! That kind of real-world testing on older hardware is exactly what makes or breaks these “lightweight” distros. Curious to hear how smooth it runs and whether the GNOME tweaks hold up.

[Len]

Probably best to continue this on “Finding the best Linux solutions for new users” - this one’s about Windows after all.