Twelve Years Turned Into Five: Software-Induced Obsolescence In PCs Following The End Of Windows 10 Support And The Requirements Of Windows 11
Twelve Years Turned Into Five: Software-Induced Obsolescence In PCs Following The End Of Windows 10 Support And The Requirements Of Windows 11
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51473/rcmos.v1i1.2026.1963Keywords:
obsolescence, end of support, lifecycleAbstract
The practical lifespan of personal computers has been reduced not only by physical failure but increasingly by software-induced obsolescence. This paper provides a tightly scoped investigation of how Windows 10 end of support on October 14, 2025 and Windows 11 security baseline requirements (e.g., TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot) can trigger functional obsolescence, shortening the usable life of still-capable hardware. The method combines document analysis (support policies, minimum requirements and extended security updates), scenario-building and a decision matrix for home users and organizations. We discuss cybersecurity risk, total cost of ownership and environmental externalities under Brazil’s National Solid Waste Policy and e-waste reverse logistics, while connecting findings to recent EU policy moves promoting repair and ecodesign. Finally, we propose actionable recommendations for lifetime extension, lifecycle governance and more sustainable procurement.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Márcio Mendes Cerqueira, Rhaynon Carvalho Soares, Luís Eduardo Baima do Lago Melônio Junior (Autor)
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