During Covid, when global supply chains were severely squeezed and new laptops were often difficult to source, this initiative provided a practical local solution. Devices that were struggling with Windows were recorded, repaired, and reconfigured. Many were transformed into fast, reliable machines suitable for everyday use — from browsing and emails to schoolwork and office tasks. 

Like many Covid-era initiatives, the project gradually paused as routines normalised.

Today, we’re delighted to pick it up again.

🪟 Why Now? Windows 10 Support Has Ended

Microsoft has announced the end of support for Windows 10.

After 14 October 2025, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive:

• Security updates

• Bug fixes

• Technical support
  While your laptop may explain “continue to work”, running an unsupported operating system carries increasing security risks over time.

Rather than replacing perfectly functional hardware, there is a better option.

🐧 A Smart Alternative: Linux

Linux provides a modern, secure, and lightweight operating system that works exceptionally well on older devices.

Installing Linux can:

Improve performance
Restore usability
Provide ongoing security updates
Eliminate licence costs
Extend device lifespan

In many cases, a Windows 10 laptop can become a fast, Chromebook-style device ideal for everyday needs.

Perfect for School & Home Learning

Refurbished Linux laptops are particularly well suited for:

• Students

• Homework & research

• Web browsing

• Office / document work

• Families needing an extra device
  
  

This approach supports both digital inclusion and waste reduction — a win for households and the environment.

Don’t Take the Risk

If your device cannot upgrade to Windows 11, continuing to use unsupported Windows 10 is not recommended.

Instead of retiring your laptop:

Upgrade it. Extend it. Reuse it.

How We Can Help

We can assist with advice & guidance - see step by set  guide below
Whether you want help upgrading your own device or donating an older laptop, we’d love to support you.

Give your laptop a second life — and keep valuable technology in use.

How to Replace Windows 10 with Linux (Step-by-Step Guide)

⚠️ IMPORTANT – BACK UP YOUR FILES FIRST

Before proceeding, you must save and back up all personal files.

Installing Linux will erase Windows, applications, and all data on the device.

Please ensure you have copied:

✔ Documents
✔ Photos / Videos
✔ Downloads
✔ Browser bookmarks
✔ Emails (if stored locally)
✔ Any other important files

Back up to:

• External USB drive

• External hard drive

• Cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, etc.)

Once the installation begins, data cannot be recovered.

What You’ll Need

✔ Laptop currently running Windows 10
✔ USB stick (minimum 8 GB)
✔ Internet connection
✔ About 30–60 minutes

Step 1 – Download Linux

We recommend Linux Mint (Cinnamon Edition) for most users.

1. Visit: linuxmint.com

2. Click Download

3. Choose Cinnamon Edition

4. Download the ISO file

Step 2 – Create Bootable USB

You’ll need software to write Linux onto your USB stick.

Recommended tool: Rufus (Windows)

1. Insert USB stick

2. Open rufus.ie → Download Rufus

3. Launch Rufus

4. Select:

   • Device → Your USB stick

   • Boot selection → Linux Mint ISO

5. Click Start

This erases the USB stick.

Step 3 – Final Check

Before wiping Windows:

✔ Confirm backup completed
✔ USB created successfully
✔ Laptop plugged in

Step 4 – Boot from USB

1. Insert Linux USB

2. Restart laptop

3. Press boot key during startup:

Common keys:

• F12

• F10

• ESC

• DEL

(Varies by manufacturer)

4. Select USB Device

Step 5 – Try Linux (Optional but Recommended)

Choose:

 “Start Linux Mint”

This runs Linux without installing.

✔ Check Wi-Fi
✔ Check keyboard / mouse
✔ Check screen / sound

If everything works → proceed.

Step 6 – Install Linux

1. Click Install Linux Mint

2. Select:

   • Language

   • Keyboard layout

3. Choose:

 “Erase disk and install Linux Mint”

✔ This fully removes Windows 10

4. Continue installation

5. Set:

   • Username

   • Password

   • Computer name

Step 7 – Installation Process

Wait 10–20 minutes.

Laptop will restart.

👉 Remove USB when prompted.

 Step 8 – Done!

Your laptop now runs Linux.

✔ Faster performance on older hardware
✔ No licence fees
✔ Regular security updates

Optional – More Secure Data Wipe (For Sensitive Devices)

For business / organisational devices:

✔ Use certified wipe tools
✔ Follow NIST 800-88 guidelines
✔ Or ensure donor performs wipe before upgrade

Need Help?

If you are confused by any of this then get in touch

✔ Backup advice
✔ USB creation
✔ Linux installation
✔ Basic training