Recently, I wondered if I could download Steam onto my mother’s antiquated desktop (I’m attempting to educate her about PC gaming). However, it appears she is still operating an HP Pro 3010 Microtower from 2009. Its integrated graphics are, unsurprisingly, subpar. Thankfully, it runs a mostly up-to-date version of Windows 10, which is more than I can say for a certain German chicken farm.

The farm in Düsseldorf utilizes a massive 40 by 40 meter egg sorting machine that still relies on Windows 95, an operating system that turned 30 years old last week (via WDR). Farmer Peter Huber is not the only business owner clinging to this outdated OS, but his statements to WDR shed light on its persistent usage despite official support from Microsoft ending over two decades ago.

Firstly, egg sorting software is quite niche, and the original programmer who created the software is no longer available to update it for modern operating systems. So, unless someone dares to modernize the process, farmers like Huber are left with little choice but to rely on Windows 95.

Moreover, Huber claims the system has operated “smoothly” since its installation and even runs “smoother than newer programs.” As I’ve witnessed, my mother’s Windows 10 desktop takes ages to boot up, leading me to wonder, “really?”

To Huber’s credit, at least he’s not resorting to even more obsolete technology, like a Commodore 64. Since his Windows 95 system meets all his needs and remains offline, the question arises: what’s the harm? While Microsoft would prefer everyone use secure, updated software, that’s impractical for every individual.

With the impending termination of support for Windows 10, many users are frustrated to find their perfectly functional hardware doesn’t meet Windows 11’s demands. There are alternatives—such as Linux—but even with these options, some PC users may feel overwhelmed by the technicalities, or their specific needs may justify sticking with Windows 95.