Your laptop, your PC: how's it going? You managing to type those essays, browse the internet or play the odd game? Are you sure? Because I've heard it might secretly be an ancient relic, unsuitable for anyone in the modern era.

On the 14th of October, Windows 10 will no longer be officially supported, condemning 240 million devices to e-waste. You've probably heard the advertising - 'your old machine is no longer secure, upgrade to a Windows 11 ready, Copilot+ PC today'. This is a tragically misleading false dichotomy: stay put on Windows 10 and be insecure or pay up for a new machine.

What about the third option: close Windows and put the AirCon on!

Why?

Put simply, Microsoft has decided that you should go out and buy a new computer. Not doing that is better for your wallet and better for your planet. Even if you can have Windows 11, maybe you don't want it; maybe you're looking for something better.

Linux isn't just a copy of Windows, in many ways it is simply a superior product. It really is like getting a new PC - for free!

• 1

  Faster PC & Longer Battery Life*: Linux has less junk running in the background so your computer will feel faster.

• 2

  More Storage: Linux uses less space on your disk so more space for your photos and files.

• 3

  Single app store: Easy, single place to get what you need

• 4

  Secure: Audited by thousands of eyes looking for vulnerabilities

• 5

  Updates: Quick, painless and YOU GET CHOOSE TO CHOOSE WHEN THEY HAPPEN

• 6

  Privacy Friendly: Microsoft can't use your computer to spy on you. No-one can because Linux is open source and fully transparent.

How?

The process of moving your PC to Linux is reasonably quick and easy if you know what you're doing. Fortunately, you only need to do it once and we're here to help you every step of the way - either online or at our events.

• 1

  Back-up your important files.

  This is the most important part. Its always good to have a backup of your important data but now more than ever this is IMPERATIVE. We cannot take any liability for data loss (disclaimer).

• 2

  Turn your PC off and plug in a USB stick.

  All the information needed to install a new operating system fits on a memory stick.

• 3

  Get your first look at Linux.

  When you turn your computer back on, you'll see something a little different. This is you first chance to see your new laptop. Don't worry, nothing has been touched yet so this is your chance to test everything works (WiFi, Camera, Trackpad, etc.)

• 4

  Wave goodbye to Windows.

  The USB contains an installation program that will copy all the good stuff from the USB stick onto your computer itself

• 5

  Profit.

  Remove the USB and restart into your new OS. Copy all your files back and install any applications you want.

We've written a full guide here if you'd like to know the detailed steps. We know the process looks too daunting for most people to attempt - that's why we're running this campaign at all; empowering people to continuing using their laptops with renewed speed, a fresh look and without Microsoft. We'll sit by your side, with your friends or one-on-one, and we'll guide you through the entire process. Once its done, you've got your laptop back, its that simple.

When?

Drop by one of our Landfill 2 Linux events to learn more and ask any questions about the project. You can also ask any questions online. If you think this would work for you, click through to one of our End of 10 cafes!

Who?

This project is being lead by the York Free & Open Source Society (YFOSS) - a group of people passionate about returning software and technology to the service of its users. We believe the way to reduce the tight, controlling grip of the big tech monopolies isn't to evangelise about the poor man's, 'privacy friendly' copy of well known services but rather to create, promote and advocate for open projects that genuinely provide the best product, best experience and exist for the greater good of its users. As long-time Linux users, we definitely put Linux in that group.

If you're interested, or want to learn more about the dangers and off-ramp from an Musk/Zuckerberg/Nadella dystopia then come along to one of our events.