Windows 10 Support Ending? Millions Upgrade to Windows 11 Before It’s Too Late

Microsoft is grappling with a significant problem as the deadline for Windows 10 support is ending, potentially leaving millions of users vulnerable to security threats. With around 850 million Windows users needing to update their PCs, the urgency of this transition is becoming more apparent. Despite repeated warnings, feature enhancements, and even financial incentives, a large number of users remain hesitant to make the switch.

In recent weeks, a noticeable shift has occurred. Approximately 40 million users upgraded their PCs in the last month, signalling a sudden response to Microsoft’s push for Windows 11 adoption. However, this still leaves hundreds of millions clinging to Windows 10, a situation that could lead to a massive security crisis once support ends in October.

Windows 10 Support Ending? Millions Upgrade to Windows 11 Before It’s Too Late

Windows 10 users have multiple upgrade options. Those with compatible PCs can switch to Windows 11 for free, provided they meet the necessary security hardware requirements. For those unable or unwilling to upgrade, Microsoft offers an alternative: a one-time payment of $30 to extend security updates for another 12 months until October 2026.

While these options seem straightforward, Microsoft recently created confusion by hinting that the free upgrade path to Windows 11 could expire soon. Although the blog post making this claim was later deleted for containing “inaccurate information and a misleading headline,” its impact was already felt. The uncertainty may have prompted many users to finally transition to Windows 11.

According to Statcounter’s latest data, Windows 11 adoption saw a notable increase in January, reversing previous declines. The statistics show that 2.5% of the overall Windows install base switched from Windows 10 to Windows 11 within the month. This shift provides some relief for Microsoft, though lingering concerns remain.

The Unresolved Security Problem

Despite the recent uptick in upgrades, Microsoft still faces an alarming problem. If the current upgrade trend continues at 40 million users per month, nearly 500 million devices could remain on Windows 10 when support ends. Many of these devices lack the required security hardware for Windows 11, leaving users to either find unofficial workarounds or remain exposed to cybersecurity risks.

Compounding the issue are ongoing update failures within Windows 11. Users have reported multiple problems, including compatibility issues with accessories, software installations, and audio drivers. These complications have further discouraged some users from making the transition.

See Also: Despite Slower Growth, Apple’s Active Device Count Hits a New High

What Lies Ahead?

Microsoft is positioning 2025 as the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh, with a strong push toward AI-enabled devices powered by Copilot. While this strategy may drive some users to upgrade, it does not offer a comprehensive solution to the looming security crisis.

As the October deadline approaches, Microsoft may need to consider drastic measures to mitigate risks. Potential solutions could include forced upgrades for eligible PCs or a “light” upgrade option for those with older hardware. Given the scale of the impending security nightmare, it seems unlikely that Microsoft will allow the situation to remain unmanaged.

The next few months will be critical in determining how Microsoft navigates this challenge. Users still on Windows 10 should begin planning their next steps to avoid being left without security support in a rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape.

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Onsa Mustafa

Onsa is a Software Engineer and a tech blogger who focuses on providing the latest information regarding the innovations happening in the IT world. She likes reading, photography, travelling and exploring nature.

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