Microsoft has ramped up its warnings to Windows users as they face security risks due to outdated software.
As security updates for older versions of Windows come to an end, Microsoft is urging users to upgrade to Windows 11 for better protection.
The company’s free upgrade offer has reached a new milestone, but millions are still at risk as they cannot make the switch without meeting certain hardware requirements.
Windows 11 is now closing in on Windows 10 in global usage, with the latest data showing that Windows 11 now accounts for 44% of all Windows users, while Windows 10 usage has dropped to 53%.
This marks a significant shift, as just a year ago, Windows 11 usage was over 40% lower than Windows 10. While Windows 11 has already surpassed Windows 10 in the U.S., it still has not overtaken it globally.
However, not all users can upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft requires a TPM 2.0 security module, which is a hardware requirement that many older PCs do not meet.
As a result, at least 240 million users are unable to upgrade without purchasing new hardware or paying for an extension to their current system.
Microsoft is pushing these users to adopt Copilot+ PCs, which come with the necessary security upgrades, but some may choose to continue using unsupported systems, putting their data at risk.
Microsoft is emphasizing the importance of upgrading, citing a rise in cyberattacks and vulnerabilities. The free upgrade offer is available for now, but it will eventually end, and users who do not act soon may face paying for an extension or purchasing a new PC.
