As Windows 10 approaches its 10th anniversary, it remains the most widely used Windows operating system by far.
ESET estimates that approximately 65% of devices in Germany around 32 million are still running Windows 10.
In contrast, Windows 11 has only crawled up to 34% since its debut in 2021.
Surprisingly, Windows 10 has even gained user share in recent months.
ESET warns that the end of official Windows 10 support could lead to more than just security issues.
Businesses and individuals may also face software and hardware compatibility challenges.
Organizations that fail to upgrade in time risk breaching cybersecurity regulations, compounding the problem.
Windows 11’s relatively strict hardware requirements are a primary reason behind its low adoption rate.
Microsoft has made it clear it hasno plans to relaxthese standards.
Even those eligible for Windows 11 have recentlyencounteredproblems when clicking on Microsoft’s update prompts.
For those unwilling or unable to upgrade immediately, there are other options to maintain security.
Individual users have the option to pay $30 for critical updates for one additional year.
Meanwhile, third-party provider 0patch has pledged to offerunofficial security patchesfor Windows 10 through 2030.
