Vulnerabilities jeopardize Russian Roulette: Numerous personal computers continue to operate with Windows 10, potentially exposing users to risks
Headline: Millions of Outdated Windows 10 Computers in Germany Pose Security Risks After Support Ends
As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, 2025, millions of computers in Germany still run this operating system, posing potential security risks and compatibility issues. IT security expert Opel from Eset advises against relying on Extended support, as it could be costly for many organizations.
According to Opel, not updating Windows 10 could lead to data vulnerabilities, making systems more susceptible to cyberattacks like ransomware and malware. Without security patches or technical support, these systems become more vulnerable to exploitation by attackers, risking data breaches and operational disruptions.
Microsoft's hardware requirements for Windows 11 often necessitate purchasing a new PC, as many older computers do not have the specific security chip called a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) required by the new operating system. This means that a vast number of devices will be affected, especially if businesses or individuals delay the transition.
However, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 through October 13, 2026, which can be purchased as a temporary security patch solution. It is essential to plan and act proactively to maintain a secure and efficient IT environment and avoid downtime or costly breaches after support ends.
Recommended solutions include upgrading to Windows 11 or the latest supported Windows version before the end-of-support date, purchasing new devices compatible with supported operating systems, implementing strong backup strategies, conducting thorough compatibility testing, and enabling tools like Windows Backup to OneDrive to protect data during the transition.
The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends considering alternatives to Windows 11, such as macOS for Apple Macintosh computers or the free Linux system. Ranjit Atwal, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, expects PC providers to have "fire sales" in the second half of the year due to ongoing uncertainties and heightened economic and geopolitical risks affecting PC purchases.
As of mid-2025, over 56% of Windows PCs in Germany still run Windows 10. There are approximately 27.4 million PCs in Germany running Windows 10, while 17.9 million PCs have already installed Windows 11. Eset's German branch in Jena based its calculations on its own telemetry data and verified the results with the statistical service "StatCounter."
Running a business with outdated systems, according to Opel, is irresponsible due to the potential for successful cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are expected to exploit Windows 10 vulnerabilities once support ends on October 14, 2025. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses and individuals to take action to protect their systems and data.
- Given the potential security risks associated with outdated Windows 10 systems, especially after support ends in October 2025, implementing cybersecurity measures, such as upgrading to Windows 11, implementing strong backup strategies, or considering alternatives like macOS or Linux, is necessary to safeguard systems and data from cyberattacks like ransomware and malware.
- As cybersecurity expert Opel emphasizes, relying on Microsoft's Extended support for Windows 10 past October 14, 2025, could lead to data vulnerabilities and increased susceptibility to cyberattacks, thereby posing substantial risks to both businesses and individuals in terms of costly breaches and operational disruptions.
