Why Windows 10 Still Has a Large User Base
Despite Microsoft's ongoing push for migration, around 17% of all Windows PCs still run Windows 10. Many organizations have found logistics, cost, or compatibility reasons to put off upgrading, while some users are simply slow to adapt. However, most of the remaining Windows 10 systems do not face major hardware barriers to upgrading—in fact, fewer than 3% are held back by Windows 11’s requirements. This means most organizations and users can technically upgrade but haven't, often due to budget, process, or application dependencies.
What Are the Real Security Risks of Staying on Windows 10?
Windows 10 users face a mounting security challenge. The average Windows 10 device contends with roughly three times as many current security vulnerabilities (CVEs) compared to Windows 11. The risk isn’t just quantity: a majority of those vulnerabilities are rated high or critical in severity, and a larger proportion are actively being exploited in the wild. This exposes organizations, especially those in healthcare, retail, manufacturing, or small business, to significantly greater risk of cyberattacks and data breaches.
Relying on Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) can buy households some time (coverage through October 2027 for consumers, 2028 for paying enterprise customers), but these programs are only a temporary safety net. Once ESU support ends, Windows 10 systems will be completely unpatched for new vulnerabilities.
Weighing Alternatives: Upgrade, ESU, or Something Else?
For most users and businesses, transitioning to Windows 11 is the most futureproof approach. It offers not only better security but longer-term support and improved productivity features. If an upgrade is simply not feasible right now, ESU should be seen as a short-term patch—not a long-term plan—because vulnerability exposure is continually rising.
Staying on Windows 10, or worse yet, running even older versions like Windows 7 or XP, carries substantial risk. This is especially true for organizations handling sensitive information or subject to regulatory compliance. Alternatives may include transitioning to cloud-based workflows, exploring Linux distributions for compatible workloads, or virtualization solutions to isolate legacy needs.
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait to Decide—Act Now on Windows 10
Continuing to use Windows 10 is increasingly risky, as security threats escalate and official support draws to a close. If your PC or organization hasn’t upgraded yet, it’s critical to start planning now. Evaluate your upgrade path and only use ESU as a temporary measure. The longer you stay on an unsupported operating system, the greater the security and compliance risks become for your devices and data.