Give Your Old Computer a New Lease on Life!

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025, leaving millions of devices vulnerable to security risks. If your hardware doesn’t meet the system requirements for Windows 11, you might be tempted to shell out hundreds on a new laptop – but consider this: your current device might have plenty of life left.

Switching to a new operating system can make your old tech last longer and run better than before. Spare the planet - and your wallet - by scheduling an appointment with us to help you make the switch to Linux Mint. To learn more, click here or read the Q&A below. To book an appointment, click here.

Q&A

• What is Linux Mint? Is it similar to Windows?
  Linux Mint is an open source, community-developed operating system that closely resembles Windows, so if you’re used to using Windows, this operating system will be familiar to you. It runs faster on older hardware than Windows and Mac, and is much more private and secure.

• What is it going to cost?
  We ask for 2% of the original price of your computer. For example, if your laptop costed $500, we would ask for $10 in return for switching the operating system.

• Where will the appointment take place?
  The address for Burwood Neighbourhood House is 1 Church St, Burwood VIC.

• When are appointments available?
  Friday afternoons.

• I’m not good with computers. Are you sure that Linux Mint is right for me? What if I find it difficult to use?
  We will offer free tech support for people we’ve helped switch operating systems. Linux Mint is different in some ways from Windows, but we’re confident that you’ll adjust to it quickly.

• I regularly use Microsoft Office. Will switching to Linux affect my work?
  Linux has an alternative to Microsoft Office called Libre Office, which is fully compatible with Microsoft Office files. We can help you set it up.

• What if my computer is too old?
  If your computer was purchased before 2010, it may not work, but we’ll try our best to install it for you regardless.

• How do I keep my files?
  You are responsible for backing up your own files. We will erase your hard disk and do a fresh install of Linux Mint.

• I’ve lost my charging chord. Is there still a way to make the switch?
  We have an adapter that fits most charging ports, so even if you’ve lost your power supply, chances are that we can still help you.

• What if the switching process fails? What if my computer becomes unusable? Who will be responsible for it?
  We do not guarantee success, however, in our experience the switching process works more than 80% of the time. If it’s unusable, we recommend taking it to your local e-waste recycling.