As the end-of-life (EOL) date for Windows 10 approaches, Windows 11 has experienced a significant surge in market share. According to Statcounter, as of March 2025, Windows 11 holds 42.66% of the global desktop Windows market, marking an increase of 4.53 percentage points from the previous month. Conversely, Windows 10’s share has declined by 4.43 percentage points, settling at 54.23%.
Driving Factors Behind the Shift
The primary catalyst for this transition is the impending end of regular support for Windows 10, scheduled for October 14, 2025. Post this date, Microsoft will cease providing free security updates for Windows 10, rendering systems more vulnerable to security threats. While Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for a fee, many users and organizations are opting to upgrade to Windows 11 to maintain optimal security and support.
Microsoft’s Encouragement for Upgrades
In an effort to expedite the transition, Microsoft has been actively encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11. The company has communicated with Windows 10 users via emails containing information and links for purchasing new PCs that meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements. Although many existing Windows 10 devices are compatible with Windows 11, Microsoft suggests considering new hardware to fully leverage the latest features and performance enhancements.
Impact on the PC Market
Despite the push for upgrades, the overall PC market has faced challenges. Major manufacturers like HP and Dell have reported weak forecasts, citing doubts over the anticipated recovery of PC sales driven by AI-enabled devices and the Windows 11 upgrade cycle. The delayed adoption of Windows 11, coupled with extended PC replacement cycles, has contributed to sluggish market performance.
Considerations for Users
For users contemplating the upgrade to Windows 11, several factors should be considered:
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensure that the current hardware meets Windows 11’s minimum requirements, including a compatible processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and TPM 2.0 support.
- Security Implications: Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures continued access to security updates and new features, reducing vulnerability to emerging threats.
- Extended Security Updates (ESU): For those unable or unwilling to upgrade immediately, Microsoft offers ESU for Windows 10 at an additional cost, providing critical security updates beyond the EOL date.
As the October 2025 deadline approaches, it is anticipated that the adoption rate of Windows 11 will continue to accelerate, driven by the need for ongoing support and enhanced security features.
