Despite Microsoft officially ending support for most versions of Windows 10 back in October, a staggering over 40% of devices are still clinging to the aging operating system. This stubborn persistence raises eyebrows, especially when Microsoft has been aggressively pushing users toward its flagship OS, Windows 11. But here's where it gets controversial: is Microsoft's strategy of stricter hardware compatibility requirements for Windows 11 backfiring, or are users simply resistant to change? Let's dive in.
Microsoft's plan was clear: phase out Windows 10 by halting free support and encourage a mass migration to Windows 11. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. As of October, Statcounter reported that 41.71% of devices were still running Windows 10, compared to 55.18% on Windows 11. This slow transition is hardly a vote of confidence in Microsoft's approach. And this is the part most people miss: the shift to Windows 11 pales in comparison to the rapid adoption of Windows 10 when Windows 7 support ended, where Windows 10 quickly dominated over two-thirds of the market.
So, what's holding users back? For one, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10, allowing businesses to keep their devices secure—for a price. This has likely slowed the transition, as companies weigh the cost of upgrading hardware against paying for continued support. Additionally, the economic climate and factors like tariffs in the U.S. have contributed to a slower-than-expected migration. It's a complex web of hardware cycles, financial considerations, and user inertia that the market—not Microsoft—seems to be dictating.
But here's the real question: Is Microsoft's push for Windows 11 adoption too aggressive, or are users simply too comfortable with what they know? The company's next big play is integrating AI services into Windows, promising assistants and agents to enhance the user experience. However, if the AI argument isn't significantly more compelling than the Windows 11 upgrade, we might see a repeat of this sluggish transition. After all, users aren't quick to abandon a system that still works, especially when the alternative feels forced.
For enterprises, the message is clear: if you're still on Windows 10, you should already have the ESU program in place or be planning hardware upgrades. But for individual users, the decision isn't as straightforward. Is sticking with Windows 10 worth the risk of eventual vulnerabilities, or is it time to embrace the future—even if it comes with stricter hardware demands?
What do you think? Is Microsoft's approach fair, or is it overstepping by forcing users into upgrades? Let us know in the comments below. And while you're here, check out these related stories:
- 'What the hell, Microsoft?' Users hit with incorrect ESU and LTSC Win10 out-of-support messages (https://www.theregister.com/2025/11/04/windows10outofsupport_update/)
- Docker Compose vulnerability opens door to host-level writes – patch pronto (https://www.theregister.com/2025/10/30/dockercomposedesktop_flaws/)
- 9 in 10 Exchange servers in Germany still running out-of-support software (https://www.theregister.com/2025/10/29/germanyexchangesupport/)
- Intel says server CPUs will be hot again – in a good way, to power AI workloads – any year now (https://www.theregister.com/2025/10/24/intelq32025/)
The future of Windows is evolving, but the question remains: will users evolve with it? Only time—and the market—will tell. ®
