On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ended mainstream support for Windows 10, a move that has sparked controversy and backlash from some users. It's no secret that Microsoft wants users to upgrade to Windows 11 — at one point, it even resorted to full-screen multipage pop-up ads to further its cause.

While Windows 11 is now gaining some traction and broad adoption worldwide, Microsoft's strict hardware requirements and arguments of flawed design elements across the OS have made the transition a bit difficult, especially for users with archaic devices.

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The protest included six different organizations: Non-Violent Action COP21, Alternatiba, April, Stop Planned Obsolescence, Que Choisir Ensemble, and Zero Waste France.

Each has been holding protests criticizing Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows 10, indicating that Microsoft has been pulling profits from the operating system in billions, but still decided to end support as part of its broader strategy for "planned obsolescence."

Microsoft had extended an olive branch to Windows 10 users through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, provided they meet certain requirements. However, critics called the program a last-minute snooze button acting as a band-aid on a bleeding system, which extends the operating system's lifeline by one year.

According to the French protestors, Microsoft's ESU program will only leave Windows 10 users in the lurch, potentially rendering millions of PCs obsolete, leading to a huge spike in electronic waste and increased cybersecurity threats.

In 2023, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) filed a petition asking Microsoft to reconsider its decision to end support for Windows 10, as it could lead to "the single biggest jump in junked computers ever" and negatively impact its sustainability goals.

Environmentalists have echoed similar sentiments, arguing that Windows 10 refugees will be forced to buy new Windows 11 devices to satisfy Microsoft's bottom line. PIRG also warned that Windows 10's demise could widen the digital divide (the gap between households with and without a capable device and internet access).

In response to Microsoft’s push to upgrade to Windows 11, some protestors are encouraging users to abandon the Windows ecosystem altogether in favor of open-source alternatives like Linux — an option strongly recommended by advocacy groups such as End of 10, citing its freedom from ads and intrusive telemetry.

It all comes back to the French government recently revealing its plan to ditch Windows for Linux, designed to reduce its reliance on US-based companies and their technologies.

That, and it's amid reports suggesting that age verification could soon be mandated on major operating systems like Windows 11, macOS, and even Linux due to new laws requiring tech companies to participate to protect minors, give guardians more control over digital access, and generally comply with regional regulations.

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Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.