A frustrated computer user took to Reddit to voice concerns about Microsoft's Windows 11 system requirements, which will leave millions of functioning computers without security updates.
What happened?
In the r/pcmasterrace subreddit, a Redditor shared their frustration about their mother's perfectly functional eight-year-old Dell laptop.
Despite handling all her computing needs (browsing Chrome, printing documents, and offering several hours of battery life), the machine won't qualify for Windows 11 when Windows 10 support ends in October 2025.
"Does anyone else find the amount of e-waste Microsoft are about to create disgusting?" the user asked, explaining their parents' plan to buy a new computer despite the current one working flawlessly for their needs.
One IT professional commented, "My concern is that I am in charge of a fleet of computers and I've heard Microsoft can drop support if you don't follow their rules, so I'm stuck replacing machines."
In a statement to The Cool Down, a Microsoft spokesperson said that "updating the operating system and hardware requirements is essential to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated security threats."
"We continue to see cyberattacks increasing in both volume and complexity around the world," they said. "Outdated software creates opportunities for cybercriminals, raising the risk of intrusion, ransomware, and data loss."
Why is forced obsolescence concerning?
When functioning computers are discarded because they can't run new software, it wastes the labor, energy, and production costs that went into creating them.
Electronic waste carries a unique burden compared to other forms of pollution. While plastic bottles might clutter landscapes, discarded electronics leak toxic materials into soil and water while squandering valuable components.
The financial impact hits hardest for seniors on fixed incomes and small businesses managing computer fleets. Replacing functional equipment drains budgets that could support other needs.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
|
Which of these factors would most effectively motivate you to recycle old clothes and electronics?
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Giving me money back 💰 Is Microsoft doing anything about this?
Microsoft has defended its Windows 11 requirements as necessary for security features. The company offers Extended Security Updates for Windows 10, though these come with additional costs, which seems to undercut the company's goal of being committed to sustainability.
The tech giant has made numerous sustainability commitments, pledging to become carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030, and the company does incorporate repair, reuse, and recovery needs into its design process. However, these efforts are fair to question when company policies push millions of working computers toward disposal.
"For devices that are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11, we strongly encourage the upgrade as this will give the highest security for your device," the spokesperson wrote to The Cool Down. "For customers that may require additional time before moving to a PC eligible for Windows 11, we offer our Extended Security Updates program, which provides critical and important security updates. When ready to purchase a new PC, we encourage customers to leverage trade-in and recycling programs from Microsoft and available at many of our Windows ecosystem partners."
What's being done about e-waste more broadly?
Communities across the country are fighting back against forced obsolescence.
Some users are exploring Linux operating systems that breathe new life into older machines. Others are learning that computers deemed "obsolete" by manufacturers often function well for years with basic maintenance.
For electronics that need to be replaced, Trashie's Tech Take Back Box makes responsible recycling simple. This program recovers and repurposes valuable materials rather than letting them contaminate landfills.
Refurbished computers are another option. These devices cost less than new models and perform everyday tasks comparably. By choosing refurbished options, consumers send a message that functional technology shouldn't become waste just because newer versions exist.
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
