Starting in October 2025, standard versions of Windows 10 won’t receive security updates. But if your computer doesn’t meet Windows 11’s stringent hardware requirements, you don’t have to discard it just yet! There are numerous excellent ways to repurpose your computer.

Install Linux Instead

Linux offers numerous distributions (distros) that can effectively replace Windows for the majority of users. These distros support all the essential productivity software, and for many tasks, a web browser is all you need.

Even if you’re a gamer, there’s no need to make a complete transition, as gaming on Linux is continually improving. Moreover, there are user-friendly Linux distros available, and in many cases, you can try them out without removing Windows.

Use It as a NAS

While cloud storage is convenient, it’s dependent on a working internet connection, constrained by your internet speed, and raises privacy issues. So, why not repurpose your old computer into a NAS (Network Attached Storage) server?

Simply install a few affordable hard drives, set up your preferred NAS operating system and software, and enable users to save and retrieve data over your high-speed local network.

Make a Streaming Server

This idea is closely related to transforming your computer into a NAS. Still, it includes the extra feature of streaming video content from your personal video collection to anyone within your network (or even outside it, depending on how you configure it).

You can opt for a commercial solution like creating a Plex server, or you can convert your computer into a DLNA media server.

Host Your Own E-book Library

If you have a library of e-books, comic books, or any other documents, you can utilize software like Calibre to manage and deliver them to your devices, such as tablets or e-readers.

Make a Dedicated Gaming Server

If you have a favorite multiplayer game that’s facing a shortage of servers, consider repurposing your old computer to host a dedicated server for that game. The compatibility of running a dedicated server on a non-Windows operating system will vary depending on the game. However, this can be an excellent solution to establish a fast and private game server for you and your friends.

Create Your Own Web Server

While creating and hosting a website typically involves paying for server space from a hosting service, you have the option to transform your computer into a web host, granting you full control over your website. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not all home internet connections allow you to host a web server, as some ISPs explicitly prohibit it.

If your ISP permits web hosting on your home connection, it can be an interesting method to manage a small online forum or blog. This approach is ideal for those looking to start a site as a hobby and gain a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in the process.

Make a Hackintosh

Some believe that the era of Hackintosh computers is drawing to a close, but there are those who contend that Hackintoshes still offer value. Suppose your old computer possesses a motherboard, CPU, and GPU that are compatible with Hackintosh setups. In that case, it can be a fantastic way to prolong its usability, provided it can run a macOS version that continues to receive security updates.

Build an Arcade Cabinet

You might have come across projects in which individuals use small, affordable computers like a Raspberry Pi to create their own arcade emulation cabinets, which is just one of the many fantastic Raspberry Pi projects. Given that your Windows 10 computer is likely much more powerful than a Raspberry Pi, it can serve as the core of an arcade cabinet. As you already possess the PC component, it should be a more cost-effective solution than purchasing a pre-assembled system. You can readily purchase arcade cabinet kits from websites such as Amazon.

If you have a pet or a small child, you’re probably familiar with the chaos that can ensue when they get their hands on an unattended keyboard, resulting in a string of random characters. Fortunately, we have a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your keyboard using a simple keyboard shortcut.

Keyboard Locker is a lightweight program that performs this task efficiently while using minimal system resources. It originally started as a small AutoHotKey script created by a forum member known as Lexikos. We’ve enhanced and compiled it, eliminating the need for AutoHotKey installation. However, if you do have AutoHotKey installed, we’ve included the original script in the download, allowing you to customize it to your preferences.

To begin, download Keyboard Locker and unzip the folder to your preferred location on your hard drive. Inside the Keyboard Locker folder, you’ll find various files, including icons and a readme. The two key files you’ll need are “KeyboardLocker.exe” and “KeyboardLocker.ahk.”

If you haven’t installed AutoHotKey, simply double-click the “KeyboardLocker.exe” file to run it. This file is an AutoHotKey script that has been compiled to function as a standalone program, eliminating the need for AutoHotKey installation.

For those who are already familiar with AutoHotKey, you can opt to use the “KeyboardLocker.ahk” file to run the script directly. The advantage of using the script version is that it allows you to customize the keyboard shortcuts for locking and unlocking as per your preferences.

Once you’ve launched Keyboard Locker, a small keyboard icon will appear in your notification area, indicating that the tool is ready for use.

To lock your keyboard, simply press the Ctrl+Alt+L keys simultaneously. You’ll notice a change in the Keyboard Locker icon, indicating that the keyboard is now locked.

Most keyboard inputs are disabled when locked, including function keys, Caps Lock, Num Lock, and various special keys found on media keyboards. Some key combinations like Ctrl+Alt+Delete and Win+L can still function, but they are highly unlikely to be triggered accidentally by a pet or a child.

To re-enable keyboard input, you can easily type the word “unlock.” As you do this, the Keyboard icon will revert to its normal appearance, indicating that the keyboard is now unlocked.

How to Show Balloon Notification Reminders

By default, Keyboard Locker does not show notifications when you lock or unlock your keyboard. If you wish to enable notifications, simply right-click the Keyboard Locker icon in the notification area and then select “Show Tray Notifications.”

Keyboard Locker will now show notifications when you lock or unlock your keyboard.

If you’d rather not receive notifications, you can also view the shortcuts for locking and unlocking your keyboard by hovering your mouse over the Keyboard Locker icon.

How to Start Keyboard Locker when Windows Starts

Running Keyboard Locker when you need it is straightforward, but you can also set it to launch automatically when Windows starts by placing it in the Windows startup folder. For detailed instructions, you can check out our guide on adding programs, files, and folders to system startup in Windows.

In brief, you can place your AutoHotKey folder in any location you prefer. To open the Run dialog, press Windows+R, then type “shell: startup” in the “Open” box, and click “OK.”

To ensure the Keyboard Locker runs automatically when Windows starts, create a shortcut to the “KeyboardLocker.exe” or “KeyboardLocker.ahk” file (whichever you use) in the Windows startup folder. You can do this by right-clicking the file and dragging it to the startup folder, then selecting “Create shortcut here” with your right mouse button. Alternatively, you can right-click within the startup folder, go to “New,” and choose “Shortcut” from the context menu. Once the shortcut is in the startup folder, the Keyboard Locker will launch automatically when you start Windows.

If you enjoy some company while working on your computer, having a child or pet around can be delightful. However, it can become quite disruptive if they start mashing the keyboard. Keyboard Locker is a handy tool for those with curious pets and inquisitive infants.