Another option besides virtual machine would be to do dual booting.]
The problem is that the OP is concerned about the problems that W10 introduces to computing. Since spyware was not mentioned, I made the assumption that it is the compelled updates and the inconveniences associated with a forced reboot to install the updates. This is not even considering that many of the MS updates are barely tested and can break computers and force a bunch of OS repairs (AND, I have had hardware destroyed) at times when it is most inconvenient and you only want to get work done.
Dual booting, though at times the best cross platform solution, perpetuates the problems above.
I believe that the OP wants to shut down the constant updates. The only sure fire way to do this is not to connect to the internet. The second way is to install a VMS, install a KMS activator, and then prohibit the OS from contacting the 1500 or so MS servers through IP tables.
If a person does not want to install Linux and already has 10, then they can slow the updates by setting their internet connection as metered in the Network and Sharing Center. This will not stop the chatter to the MS servers, but it will prevent updates being downloaded.
At the present time, even deliberately installing an OS other than W10 will not stop W10 being downloaded and very possibly installed. Unless, you shut off updates. While MS is claiming to change the W10 install nag screen to not install as a default, MS is also unwilling to give a time frame when it will roll out.
The next major W10 update is scheduled for Aug. 2, 2016. At this time, the free update offer will end. I am skeptical that the update will end the nag to update because MS stands to gain much money from selling data derived from users computers. While the MS spyware has been back ported to W8.1, 8.0, 7 (and service packs) and Vista, unlike W10 it can be uninstalled.
Many do not care about how chatty W10 is about their conduct. They probably should be concerned about the spying if they do any SEO. MS collects that information. While perhaps not all ducks that have Scrapebox are engaging in link building, it would be a fair guess that if you have GSA Search Engine Ranker that you are involved in link building. MS collects that information and more - the links you have accessed and built. If you have other programs or even source code (I collect crime kits) for crime kits or do some hacking related functions, then MS may just give the information to some three letter agencies that can make life interesting. Even worse, with spyware and keyloggers built into the OS, why should the three letter agencies get a warrant to find whats on your computer? Why not just go to MS with a gag order. Perhaps my paranoid string was pulled, but do remember that MS settled a class action lawsuit with the DOJ by agreeing to install spyware into Windows XP that was sold or torrented in China. At any rate, how valuable is it to any company, including MS, to know that you practice blackhat? Your access to certain sites would tell the enemy what sites to devalue, and it would be your OS that gave them that information.
Moving beyond the tin foil antics and practical concerns, it was revealed over the last few days that MS has built in the means to turn W10 into a subscription service - pay fee or your computer will not work. MS denies that they intend to activate the subscription service.... But preparation is the best defense in this matter.
