Introduction
I grew up in a world where operating systems were not just tools but entire ecosystems that could either free or trap their users. My journey began with OS/2 Warp on an 80386 machine, using the IBM MCA BUS hardware before I began my transition to Linux in 1995–finally to become free from the Microsoft Ecosystem by 2016 (With an exception of an offline WinXP HDD for utilizing specialized hardware sensors/meters/loggers.) For those still tethered to the Windows lifecycle, my advice is simple: grow out of it. In simple terms it is a parasite. Windows is not the be-all and end-all of computing; it’s an ecosystem trap, and there are better more liberating alternatives out there.
The Windows Lifecycle Dilemma
Windows has a notorious cycle: versions are released with much fanfare, only for their support to wane, leaving users with outdated, insecure systems. This cycle has been a source of frustration for many, particularly as Microsoft shifts focus to newer, profit-driven iterations. The end of support for versions like Windows XP, 7, and now even Windows 10, highlights the transient nature of software support in Microsoft’s ecosystem. This leaves users in a dilemma, facing choices between upgrading at a cost or continuing with unsupported, vulnerable software.a parasite
Beyond Lifecycle: The Maintenance Nightmare
Microsoft’s approach to maintenance, particularly with forced updates, adds another layer of complexity and disruption. These updates, often critical for security and functionality, are not just about keeping the system running but can introduce new problems:
- Forced Updates and Business Disruption: Microsoft’s policy of pushing updates without user control can lead to significant operational disruptions. A classic example is what reportedly happened to Lowes Hardware store. An unscheduled Windows update during peak hours could have caused system downtimes, leading to loss of sales & data. This scenario underscores how mandatory updates, when not timed appropriately can wreak havoc on business operations. Lowes fired their national IT director after an event with significant loss of sales. The new IT manager they hired set up all client machines to Linux Mint.
- Unnecessary Maintenance: Microsoft often introduces features or changes that require additional maintenance or lead to performance degradation. For instance, the integration of Microsoft Edge or the constant nudges towards Office 365 subscriptions through system ads adds bloat and potential privacy concerns, demanding more from users in terms of system resources and management.
- Compatibility Issues: With each major update, like the transition to Windows 11, users might find that software or hardware no longer works as expected. This was evident when some users reported losing access to emails or when certain applications ceased to function post-update, necessitating either a rollback or costly upgrades to meet new system requirements.
Suspected Latency and Response Delays to Encourage Upgrades
There’s a growing suspicion, if not outright proof, that Microsoft might be using update-related latency and response delays as a subtle nudge to push users towards upgrading to newer versions of Windows and system hardware. Anecdotal evidence from forums and user reports suggests that certain updates have led to noticeable increases in system lag, particularly in gaming or professional software, which could be intentional to make older versions feel outdated or less capable:
- Performance Issues Post-Update: After some updates, users have reported significant increases in latency, particularly in applications requiring real-time interaction, like video games or video editing software. This has led some to speculate that Microsoft might be deliberately degrading performance to encourage upgrades.
- Network and System Latency: Discussions on platforms like Reddit have highlighted instances where Windows updates seem to correlate with latency spikes in online activities, potentially affecting productivity and user satisfaction, thereby pushing for system upgrades.
Exploring Alternatives: Linux
Linux has been a beacon for those seeking freedom from proprietary software shackles. Since my early days with it, Linux has evolved into a robust platform, capable of handling everything from basic computing to complex server environments. Distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora and Debian offer user-friendly interfaces for beginners while maintaining the power and flexibility that tech enthusiasts crave.
Case Scenarios Where Linux Excels:
- Security: Linux’s open-source nature allows for rapid patching of vulnerabilities by a global community.
- Customization: Users can tailor their OS to their exact needs, from lightweight systems for old hardware to powerful servers.
- Cost: Being free, Linux eliminates the recurring cost of OS upgrades.
Privacy: With fewer telemetry issues compared to Windows, Linux offers a more private computing experience.
QNX: The Real-Time OS for Embedded Systems
Beyond desktop computing, QNX has stood out in the realm of real-time operating systems. Originally developed by Quantum Software Systems, now owned by BlackBerry, QNX is renowned for its reliability in embedded systems, from cars to medical devices. Its real-time capabilities ensure performance where timing is critical. However, the recent “cooperation” between BlackBerry and Microsoft hints at a dangerous embrace. Microsoft’s history of “Embrace, Extend, and Extinguish” strategies, seen in past dealings with competitors, casts a shadow over this partnership. It’s a move that could potentially see QNX’s unique qualities diluted or absorbed into the Microsoft ecosystem.
The Bigger Picture: We All Woke Up in the Wrong Universe
In an ideal computing universe, software would serve users, not the other way around. The current landscape, dominated by a few giants, feels like waking up in a universe where freedom and innovation are continually at risk of being curtailed for profit. My journey from OS/2 to Linux, and an appreciation for systems like QNX, has taught me the value of diversity in technology. It’s crucial we continue to support and develop alternatives, ensuring a rich, varied ecosystem where users aren’t just consumers with normalized computing issues but participants in the tech they use.
We are lucky if we can choose what we use in technology. The cycle of Windows, coupled with its maintenance demands and potential performance manipulation, might push many to upgrade or abandon ship, but the world of operating systems offers much more. Linux stands as a testament to what can be achieved with community-driven innovation, and QNX reminds us of the specialized niches where other OS can shine. As Microsoft’s shadow grows, the need for vigilance and support for these alternatives becomes ever more critical. We may have woken up in the wrong universe, but we can certainly navigate through it with more enlightened choices.
References:
Digital Citizen. (2022). How to pause Windows 10 updates. Digital Citizen. Retrieved from (https://www.digitalcitizen.life/delay-windows-10-updates/)
MakeUseOf. (2021). Is Windows 10 Slow After an Update? Here’s How to Fix It. *. Retrieved from (https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-slow-after-update-fix/)
PCWorld. (2023). Did Windows 11’s 2023 Update slow down your PC? Try this. PCWorld. Retrieved from [](https://www.pcworld.com/article/2161898/if-your-cpu-performance-fell-after-updating-windows-try-this.html)
Reddit. (n.d.). Latency issue after some Windows 10 update? r/Windows10. Retrieved from (https://www.reddit.com/r/Windows10/comments/b38vod/latency_issue_after_some_windows_10_update/)
Reddit. (n.d.). Why Windows 10 is very slow and buggy when there is a pending update? r/Windows10. Retrieved from (https://www.reddit.com/r/Windows10/comments/50uywz/why_windows_10_is_very_slow_and_buggy_when_there/)
Super User. (n.d.). Why is checking Windows Update so slow? Super User. Retrieved from (https://superuser.com/questions/890038/why-is-checking-windows-update-so-slow)
The Windows Club. (2021). Fix Sound delays, lags and audio latency in Windows 11/10. The Windows Club. Retrieved from (https://www.thewindowsclub.com/sound-delays-lags-and-audio-latency-in-windows-10)
BlackBerry Press Release (2025) QNX collaboration with Microsoft. (https://www.blackberry.com/us/en/company/newsroom/press-releases/2025/qnx-collaborates-with-microsoft-to-drive-software-defined-vehicle-innovations)
