Microsoft users in danger as Windows 10 market share increases

In October 2024, Microsoft reported that Windows 11 held a market share of 35.58% among all Windows users, which decreased to 34.12% by December 2024. Meanwhile, Windows 10's market share increased from 60.95% to 62.7% during the same period, indicating a concerning trend as the less secure operating system gained more users. This shift raises alarms among security professionals, as, with the rising market share of Windows 10, the potential security risks for its users also heighten. Microsoft's announcement regarding the end-of-support for Windows 10 is significant, as it informs users that after October 14, 2025, they will no longer receive free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. Given the alarming rise in cyberattacks, malware, and data breaches targeting outdated software, the implications of this decision become clear. The lack of support for Windows 10 could lead to an increased vulnerability in users' systems, heightening their risk of cyber threats, data loss, and ransomware attacks. Thorsten Urbanski of ESET has highlighted that users should not wait until the deadline approaches to make a change. In a warning issued at the beginning of January 2025, he stressed the importance of transitioning to Windows 11 or another alternative operating system before it becomes too late. With the deadline looming just months away, many users may find themselves unprotected and unaware of the rising risks and consequences of remaining on an unsupported platform. The statistics surrounding Windows operating systems reflect a critical moment for cybersecurity, particularly with an observable shift of user preference back to Windows 10 from the more secure Windows 11. The choice to stick with Windows 10 can have dire consequences, as it not only affects individual users but also has the potential ripple effect on businesses and organizations that might still rely on Windows 10 for their daily operations. In summary, it is vital for users to act swiftly in order to maintain their security and ensure their systems are prepared for the future.