"Windows 10 Continues to Operate on Multiple Personal Computers"
As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, leaving millions of personal computers in Germany vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues. According to Eset, a leading IT security company, approximately 57% of all Windows computers in Germany are still running Windows 10, with around 24.7 million PCs yet to upgrade [1].
Among these, 17.9 million PCs have already made the transition to Windows 11, representing an eight percent increase since November 2024 [2]. However, over one million computers in Germany are still running outdated operating systems such as Windows 7, Windows 8, 8.1, and Windows XP, putting these devices at significant risk.
Alexander Opel, an IT security expert at Eset, warns that those still using outdated Windows versions are playing with data security. He advises users to take action before it's too late [3].
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) as a paid, temporary alternative to receive critical security patches post end-of-support. However, ESUs are costly ($30 per device per year) and primarily recommended only to buy time for migration rather than as a long-term solution [1][2][3].
The primary recommended alternative is to upgrade to Windows 11, ensuring ongoing security, compatibility, and support. This may require new hardware for some users, and organizations typically need a migration plan to avoid disruptions [1][2].
Other options include third-party support providers like US Cloud, which offer expert support services independent of Microsoft licensing at potentially lower costs [1].
Ranjit Atwal, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, expects fire sales in the second half of the year due to full warehouses at PC manufacturers. He predicts a period of uncertainty in the purchase of new PCs due to increased economic and geopolitical risks [4].
Upgrading to Windows 11 often requires purchasing a new PC due to Microsoft's high hardware requirements. The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends switching to alternative operating systems like macOS or Linux as a safer option [5].
Cybercriminals are already waiting to exploit vulnerabilities as soon as support ends, making it crucial for users and organizations to plan a transition well before the end-of-support date to manage cost, risk, and operational stability effectively [1][2][3].
Sources:
- Eset's German Branch Warns of Windows 10 End-of-Support Risks
- Germany's Windows 11 Adoption Increases by 8% Since November 2024
- Microsoft Offers Extended Security Updates for Windows 10
- Gartner Predicts Uncertainty in PC Market Due to Economic and Geopolitical Risks
- BSI Recommends Switching to Alternative Operating Systems
- In the face of Microsoft ending support for Windows 10, general news outlets have emphasized the impending cybersecurity risks from possible security threats and compatibility issues.
- As a response, data-and-cloud-computing experts like Alexander Opel from Eset have cautioned about the data security perils of using outdated Windows versions, suggesting prompt action prior to the support cutoff.
- Simultaneously, under the umbrella of crime-and-justice, it's worth noting that cybercriminals are reportedly gearing up to exploit these vulnerabilities as the support date nears, highlighting the significance of proactive planning for a transition.
