Microsoft is confronting a significant security challenge: 500 million users are not upgrading to Windows 11, according to recent reports. This comprises two user segments: 500 million devices ineligible for the upgrade, and another 500 million eligible but whose users opted against upgrading.
Security Implications and User Decisions
The decision by these users to stick with Windows 10 poses risks. Microsoft has responded by offering extended security updates (ESU) for free to all home users until 2026-10, citing ongoing cyber risks as devices age. Simon Batt from XDA-Developers notes that even when the upgrade to Windows 11 is feasible, many users deem it unnecessary.
Cost and Business Impact
Despite the ESU offer, the absence of upgrade mandates means organizations with extensive Windows 10 inventories face steep future costs. Without widespread migration to Windows 11, a potential security cliff looms as 2026 nears. Clearer tracking of Windows 10 enrollments in security updates is needed for risk mitigation.
