Not ready to say goodbye to your old Windows 10 PC? You’re not alone. While Microsoft pushes users to upgrade or trade in for Windows 11, that older machine still has plenty of potential left. Instead of giving it away for a modest discount, consider transforming it into something even more useful.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just someone who hates e-waste, here are 7 clever ways to reuse your Windows 10 PC and breathe new life into your device.
1. Install Linux and Extend Its Lifespan
One of the best things you can do with an unsupported Windows 10 machine is to install Linux. Lightweight, fast, and secure, Linux can transform aging hardware into a stable and usable machine again.
Why it’s great:
- Most Linux distros run smoothly on older hardware.
- You can still receive security updates and modern features.
- It’s free and open-source.
For beginners, Ubuntu or Linux Mint offer user-friendly experiences. More advanced users may prefer Debian, Pop!_OS, or Arch Linux for fine-tuned control.
2. Turn It Into a Retro Gaming Console
Got a soft spot for retro games? Convert your old PC into a retro gaming station using EmulationStation or RetroArch. These platforms let you run ROMs for everything from NES to PlayStation.
Bonus: Pair it with a controller and plug it into your TV. You’ll have a nostalgic console setup without spending a dime.
Pro tip: Use a different PC to download ROMs and transfer them via USB to avoid security risks.
3. Create Your Own Home Media Server
Focus keyword: turn PC into media server
Want a break from endless subscriptions? With tools like Plex or Jellyfin, you can use your old PC to create a local streaming server for your own collection of movies, music, and shows.
Why it’s worth it:
- Watch content on any device, anywhere in your home.
- Stream offline or while traveling.
- Skip ads and streaming limits.
It’s a solid way to reclaim entertainment freedom.
4. Set Up a Game Server for Friends and Family
If you enjoy multiplayer games like Minecraft, Valheim, or Terraria, your old PC can serve as a dedicated game server. This gives you complete control over gameplay rules, backups, and uptime.
Things to know:
- Ensure the PC has decent cooling and a reliable internet connection.
- Look into port forwarding and security best practices.
- It’s great for local LAN parties or remote sessions with friends.
5. Use It as a Smart Home Hub
Take control of your smart home by running Home Assistant, a local platform that integrates with thousands of smart devices. No cloud dependency means faster control and greater privacy.
Key benefits:
- Works with lights, thermostats, media players, and more.
- Runs locally—faster and more secure than cloud services.
- Expandable with custom automation and dashboards.
Even if you’re not a tech wizard, Home Assistant is beginner-friendly enough to set up with the right guides.
6. Build a Personal NAS for Backups
Why pay monthly for cloud storage when your PC can act as a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) unit?
Recommended software:
- TrueNAS CORE (for beginners)
- UnRAID (for advanced users)
What it does:
- Safely stores and backs up files from all your devices.
- Can double as a media or photo server.
- Accessible from anywhere with secure VPN setup.
It’s a private cloud under your control.
7. Create a Home Lab with Proxmox or Docker
If you’re into tech experimentation or learning DevOps, setting up a home lab with Proxmox or Docker is the ultimate project.
What you can host:
- Virtual machines
- Containers for web apps
- Cloud storage services
- Security tools like firewalls and vulnerability scanners
It’s your playground for everything tech—perfect for skill-building or launching side projects.
Your Old PC Deserves a Second Life
Just because Microsoft wants you to upgrade doesn’t mean your old Windows 10 machine is useless. Whether you’re repurposing it for personal use, experimentation, or utility, these seven ideas prove there’s plenty of life left in that old hardware.
