Windows 10 Refuses to Die: Why Millions Still Haven’t Upgraded

When Microsoft announced the end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025, it seemed logical that everyone would jump to Windows 11. But reality has proven different: over 1 billion computers worldwide still cling to Windows 10, many simply because it still works.

The problem? Falling behind doesn't just affect aesthetics or convenience—it makes these systems prime targets for cyberattacks. At TecnetOne, we see it daily when working with clients still operating on outdated systems.

In this article, we’ll explain why so many people refuse to upgrade, what risks they’re facing, and what alternatives exist if your machine can’t handle Windows 11.

The Scale of the Problem: Over a Billion PCs Unupdated

Even though Windows 11 surpassed 50% global market share in 2025, the transition is far from complete. According to Dell:

1. 500 million devices can upgrade to Windows 11… but haven’t.
   
   
2. Another 500 million can’t due to hardware limitations.

This includes:

1. Offices still running Windows 10
   
   
2. Consumer laptops bought just a few years ago
   
   
3. Enterprise machines dependent on legacy software

For perspective, in Spain alone:

1. Windows 11: 52.96%
   
   
2. Windows 10: 44.59%

And we’re talking about active machines—not abandoned units in storage.

Why People Resist Upgrading to Windows 11

If you're still on Windows 10, chances are one of these reasons applies to you:

“My PC works fine. Why change?”

It’s the most common answer. Windows 10 is known for being stable, compatible, and predictable. For many users and businesses, a system that works is a system that stays.

Windows 11 Requirements Are Too Strict

Windows 11 demands specific components:

1. TPM 2.0
   
   
2. A relatively new CPU
   
   
3. Secure Boot
   
   
4. Modern RAM and chipsets

Perfectly functional machines are excluded due to minor hardware specs.

Upgrading Is Expensive—Especially for Businesses

Replacing hundreds or thousands of systems is costly. And it's not just the hardware:

1. Software compatibility
   
   
2. Mass migrations
   
   
3. Internal testing
   
   
4. Staff training

So many companies choose to “stick with what they know.”

Perception That Windows 11 Is Problematic

Early versions had:

1. A sluggish file explorer
   
   
2. RAM duplication bugs
   
   
3. Driver issues
   
   
4. Inconsistent performance
   
   
5. Complaints from gamers

This created initial distrust that’s hard to shake.

Read more: Installing Windows 11 Without Meeting the Requirements

The Real Risk: Windows 10 Has No More Protection

As of October 14, 2025, Windows 10 officially lost support:

1. No more security patches
   
   
2. No vulnerability fixed
   
   
3. No Microsoft support

This means any new exploit remains open—forever.

What’s worse: cybercriminals specifically target unsupported systems. It’s the perfect setup for:

1. Ransomware
   
   
2. Trojans
   
   
3. Banking malware
   
   
4. Data theft
   
   
5. Enterprise breaches through vulnerable PCs

For individuals, it's annoying.

For companies… it can mean millions in losses, leaked data, or legal penalties.

Is Windows 11 “Not That Bad”? Data Says No

According to YouGov, 61% of former Windows 11 skeptics now say “it’s not that different” once they try it.

They find:

1. It’s fast
   
   
2. It’s more secure
   
   
3. It has a modern look
   
   
4. It integrates AI better
   
   
5. It performs better for gaming

Microsoft sees three possible paths for hesitant users:

1. Buy a new PC (Microsoft’s favorite choice)
   
   
2. Stick with Windows 10 (highly risky)
   
   
3. Migrate to Linux (a growing trend among public institutions in Europe)

Gamers Have Already Moved On

Steam’s hardware survey is a key indicator of user adoption. In 2025, Windows 11 is the most-used OS among gamers.

Why?

1. Better DirectStorage integration
   
   
2. Performance optimizations
   
   
3. Full support for modern GPUs
   
   
4. Improved CPU scheduling

If you’re into gaming, Windows 10 is already in the rearview.

You might also be interested in: Windows 11 to Sync Clipboard with Android: What to Expect

The Shadow of Windows 12: Is It Worth the Wait?

Rumors suggest:

1. Windows 12 could arrive in 2026
   
   
2. Some analysts say 2027

Microsoft may be deliberately holding back pressure to switch. Many users might be planning a single leap:

From Windows 10 → Straight to Windows 12.

But here’s the catch: what about your security in the meantime?

So… What Should You Do If You’re Still on Windows 10?

At TecnetOne, we always say: evaluate your situation. Don’t decide “just because.”

Here’s a quick guide:

1. If your PC can run Windows 11 → Upgrade now.

It’s free, fast, and saves you from major risk.

2. If your PC can’t… but runs fine → Try a tech assessment.

Sometimes, you just need to:

1. Enable TPM in BIOS
2. Turn on Secure Boot
3. Update firmware
4. Swap in a physical TPM module (on desktops)

We’ve seen “incompatible” machines become fully upgradeable with a few tweaks.

3. If your hardware truly can’t → You have three options:

Option A: Buy a new device

Best if you use it for work or heavy study.

Option B: Stay on Windows 10 (not recommended)

Only if you:

1. Don’t connect to sensitive services
2. Avoid handling private data
3. Use strong antivirus software
4. Limit your online activity

Still… you remain exposed.

Option C: Move to Linux

A real—and increasingly popular—alternative.

It’s free, secure, stable, and works well even on old machines.

Final Thoughts: The End of Windows 10 Is a Wake-Up Call

Sticking with Windows 10 isn’t just nostalgia—it’s about cost, comfort, and hardware limitations. But now that support is over, it poses a massive risk to both individuals and companies.

The question is no longer “Do you want to upgrade?”

It’s “Can you afford not to?”

And from a security standpoint, the answer is almost always: no.