A new security warning has hit Windows users, just as Microsoft approaches a major turning point: the end of free support for Windows 10 in October 2025.
This affects an estimated 500 million users who still haven’t upgraded to Windows 11, despite being eligible for the free update.
PC maker Asus issued a reminder, stressing that older systems are now “magnets for security threats”, with time quickly running out for regular security updates.
Asus emphasized Windows 11’s AI-powered Copilot as a key reason to upgrade — though users don’t need a premium AI PC to access essential updates and support.
StatCounter’s latest global data paints a grim picture: after several months of Windows 11 growth, May 2025 saw a reversal — Windows 10 gained slightly, while Windows 11 usage dropped, keeping Windows 10 above 50% worldwide. In the U.S., Windows 11 now leads, but globally, progress has stalled.
Out of approximately 750 million users yet to switch, about 240 million have incompatible devices, but 500 million are still eligible and simply haven’t upgraded.
While Microsoft offers paid security extensions, they’re limited to one year for home users and come with a hefty price tag for businesses.
With only five months left, users must choose between:
- Upgrading to Windows 11 for free, if their PC allows it, or
- Paying for temporary security support, which delays the inevitable.
Experts warn: delaying puts systems at higher risk of malware, ransomware, and data breaches as unpatched vulnerabilities mount after support ends.
