As Microsoft prepares to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, a concerning trend has emerged in the operating system's market share, raising significant security concerns for millions of users worldwide. Recent data shows that instead of transitioning to the more secure Windows 11, users are increasingly sticking with or returning to Windows 10, creating a potential cybersecurity crisis.
Current Market Share Trends
Windows 10 continues to dominate the Windows ecosystem, with its market share actually increasing from 60.95% to 62.7% between October and December 2024. Conversely, Windows 11's share has declined from 35.58% to 34.12% during the same period, indicating a reluctance among users to upgrade despite the looming end-of-support deadline.
Security Implications
The end of Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, marks a critical turning point for cybersecurity. After this date, Microsoft will cease providing free software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes for Windows 10 systems. Security experts, including ESET's Thorsten Urbanski, warn of potentially devastating consequences for unprepared users, including increased vulnerability to cyberattacks, data loss, and ransomware threats.
Hardware Compatibility Challenges
A major factor contributing to the low Windows 11 adoption rate is its strict hardware requirements. Microsoft's insistence on TPM 2.0 security module compatibility has effectively excluded millions of older systems from upgrading. This hardware barrier has left many users with limited options as the support deadline approaches.
Available Solutions
Users facing the end-of-support deadline have several options to maintain security. Organizations can purchase Extended Security Updates at USD 61 per device for the first year, with costs doubling annually thereafter. Individual users have access to a more affordable option at USD 30 for one year of critical updates. Alternatively, third-party provider 0patch has committed to offering unofficial security patches through 2030, providing a potential solution for systems unable to upgrade to Windows 11.
 |
|---|
| Exploring solutions for Windows 10 users facing end-of-support issues |
Recommendations
Security experts strongly advise against waiting until October to take action. Users with compatible hardware should consider upgrading to Windows 11 immediately, while those with incompatible systems should either plan for hardware upgrades or explore alternative operating systems. Businesses must also ensure compliance with cybersecurity regulations, as continuing to use an unsupported operating system could lead to regulatory issues.
 |
|---|
| The modern interface of Windows 11, encouraging users to upgrade for better security |