If you don’t want your laptop to end up at the tip, it’s time to act. Photo: hroe.
Thousands of laptops and computers across the Illawarra – and the world – will be more vulnerable to viruses and other cyber threats from Saturday 14 October.
That’s when Microsoft will end support for Windows 10. If your device is able to run Windows 11, you can install the free update and move on with your life.
If it can’t, however, you have limited options.
Wollongong City Councillor and ICT consultant Andrew Anthony said without support from Microsoft, Windows 10 wouldn’t receive the regular software fixes that were required to keep devices safe from hackers and viruses.
He said it would leave thousands vulnerable and generate massive amounts of electronic waste.
“This will make a lot of working tech become completely redundant,” he said.
“This could result in millions of functional computers being thrown out.
“I worry a lot of people will be caught out, especially elderly people.
The change will only affect laptops and computers that run on Windows. Other devices such as tablets and smartphones will not be affected.
If your trusty laptop isn’t able to run Windows 11, you have a few options.
Cr Anthony, who refurbishes older donated computers and gives them away to families, students and community members in need across the Wollongong region, said users might be able to pay Windows to continue their support of the old operating system on their device for another year.
Alternatively, your device might be able to run on a different operating system such as Linux.
“It’s considered more secure than Windows anyway,” Cr Anthony said.
“You could also choose to upgrade but keep your old device for the kids and run it without a connection to the internet.
“We should be doing everything we can to extend the life of our existing technology.”
If there is no way to upgrade or reuse your device to make it safe, recycling it appropriately means valuable materials like copper, gold and rare earth elements can be recovered and reused.
The Community Recycling Centre (CRC) at Whytes Gully, operated by Wollongong City Council, is equipped to safely process e-waste and recover valuable materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.
Many local retailers, such as Officeworks, also offer free e-waste recycling programs, providing convenient drop-off options for residents.
Long-term, Cr Anthony said he would like to see stronger national policies on e-waste reduction, and wider community education on upgrade alternatives.
“That means backing local repair services and challenging the throwaway mentality that’s become so common in the tech industry,” he said.
“People should be able to maintain, repair, and upgrade their devices rather than being forced into expensive and avoidable replacement cycles driven by planned obsolescence.
“By repairing and reusing our computers and other electronics, we extend their lifespan, reduce the demand for new manufacturing, cut carbon emissions, save money, and help more people in our community access technology.
“Together, we can build a more circular and sustainable economy where technology lasts longer, waste is minimised and valuable resources are recovered and reused.”
