再见！Win 10 正式“停服”

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft has officially closed the security update channel for Windows 10, impacting millions of users globally, while simultaneously tightening upgrade restrictions for Windows 11, leaving many older device users facing limitations or forced obsolescence [1][5]. Summary by Sections Windows 10 Support Termination - Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, meaning no more security updates or bug fixes will be provided, significantly increasing the risk of cyberattacks [5]. - Approximately 42% of Windows devices globally are still running Windows 10, with 36.38% in the U.S. alone [5]. - Nearly 43% of these devices cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to high hardware requirements, such as a 64-bit processor, 64GB storage, 720p display, and TPM 2.0 support, making many devices from 2017 and earlier unable to upgrade [5]. Windows 11 Upgrade Restrictions - Microsoft has removed the known mechanism for creating local accounts during the Windows 11 installation process, requiring users to be online and log in with a Microsoft account to complete the setup [4]. - This change is seen as a significant shift from previous policies that allowed local account creation, which could mislead users into skipping important setup screens [4]. - Although there are alternative methods for experienced users to perform a local installation, these methods are not accessible to the average user [4]. Economic and Environmental Impact - The termination of Windows 10 support could lead to up to 400 million computers becoming vulnerable to attacks or being discarded as electronic waste, with estimates suggesting over 1 million pounds of e-waste generated in the U.S. alone [5][6]. - The cost of upgrading to Windows 11 is a burden for many consumers and small businesses, with entry-level devices starting around $300 and high-performance models exceeding $3,000 [6]. - The current economic climate, with the U.S. unemployment rate at a near four-year high of 4.3%, exacerbates the financial strain on low-income families and unemployed individuals [6]. - Critics argue that Microsoft's actions contradict its previous commitments to achieve carbon-negative operations and zero waste by 2030, as the discontinuation of Windows 10 support will lead to significant electronic waste [6].