As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, 2025, the operating system remains a dominant force in the desktop world. According to Statcounter, Windows 10 holds the largest share of the desktop market with 49.08%, surpassing its successor Windows 11, which accounts for 45.53% of the share. In contrast, Windows 7, which reached its end of life in January 2020, currently holds a minimal 3.59% market share.
Comparison with Windows 7 Migration
Reflecting back to the period just before Windows 7’s support was withdrawn, the operating system represented a hefty 27.49% of the market. In comparison, Windows 10 had already captured 64.64%, largely due to a more seamless transition process for users and organizations alike. At that time, Windows 8.1 held a smaller 4.98% stake. The comparatively faster adoption of Windows 10 from Windows 7 contrasts with the current hesitance for migrating to Windows 11.
Several factors contribute to the slower transition rate from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Primarily, Windows 11’s stringent hardware requirements mean that a significant number of PCs, particularly older models, are unable to upgrade without hardware replacements. This not only affects individual users but poses substantial challenges for enterprises with vast numbers of machines.
Challenges for Enterprises
In the corporate sphere, the migration hurdles extend beyond mere hardware concerns. Businesses often work with extended upgrade cycles and require thorough testing phases to ensure smooth transitions without disrupting workflow. This conservative approach may lead many organizations to sustain their operations on Windows 10 while utilizing Microsoft’s paid extended support.
The persistent presence of Windows 10 in the marketplace highlights a trend towards prolonged usage, even post-support. While support cessation might prompt Microsoft to refine its future offerings, for now, Windows 10’s continued usage reflects strategic considerations by enterprises to balance cost, compatibility, and operational continuity.
Overall, the migration landscape highlights the challenges inherent in transitioning vast userbases within fixed timeframes. With Windows 10 maintaining a significant market presence, stakeholders anticipate that its use will continue to sustain well after Microsoft's formal support concludes, keeping IT teams and resources focused on managing legacy systems.
