Microsoft’s Start to 2025 Marred by Windows 10 Resurgence
A new analysis reveals that Windows 10 has regained market share, despite the operating system’s end-of-life looming in October 2025. The recent data shows a reversal of trend lines, with Windows 10 increasing its market share and Windows 11 decreasing its.
According to Microsoft’s latest numbers, December saw Windows 10’s market share increase, while that of Windows 11 dropped back down towards 34%. This marks a significant shift from the previous year when Windows 11 posted its best numbers yet, crossing the 35% line. The number of Windows users at risk due to lack of security updates is currently over 65% and growing monthly.
The reason behind this resurgence is attributed to Microsoft’s recent announcement of an extended support option for Windows 10 users. Users can now pay a one-time $30 fee for an additional twelve months of support, thereby delaying the problem while undermining the security imperative that Microsoft has been pushing for Windows 11.
Estimates suggest that there are approximately 900 million PCs running Windows 10, with only 400 million capable of upgrading to Windows 11. The extended support option may lead to a change in user behavior, with some users opting to pay the $30 fee to avoid potential security risks. However, this could also delay Microsoft’s ability to push its preferred solution for secure hardware and software.
The situation remains critical, with around 850-900 million Windows 10 users set to reach end-of-life support by October 2025. If this trend continues, it could result in over 70% of the market running an obsolete operating system by the fall, leaving only 30% secure. The extended support option poses a significant risk, as those who fail to upgrade may be left vulnerable to security breaches. As Microsoft awaits further analysis, one thing is clear: the stakes are high for users and the company alike.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2025/01/01/microsoft-update-decision-65-of-all-windows-users-now-at-risk