Germany has about 32 million computers still using Windows 10, which will lose support after October 14, 2025. This means no more security or feature updates, increasing vulnerability to cyber threats. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 for better protection. The upgrade process is straightforward for those with compatible hardware. For those not ready to switch, Microsoft offers the Extended Security Updates program for a fee, providing critical updates for an additional year.
According to the cybersecurity firm ESET, Germany is home to around 32 million computers still operating on Windows 10, which raises significant concerns. Microsoft plans to discontinue support for this operating system and shift its focus to Windows 11. Here’s everything you need to know about this transition.
Implications of Windows 10 Support Termination
If you’re one of the many individuals who haven’t yet upgraded to Windows 11 and are still running Windows 10, the end of support will directly impact you. After the official lifecycle concludes on October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive any feature or security updates. Furthermore, Microsoft will stop providing technical assistance for this operating system.
This is a typical phase in the lifecycle of Windows versions; for instance, many users recently faced the end of update support for Windows 8.1 in early 2023. However, this does not imply that your device will cease to function after the deadline. The lack of security updates increases the risk of exposure to new security threats, including malware and trojans. If vulnerabilities are discovered post-support end, cybercriminals could exploit them without the hope of a timely fix.
While the conclusion of Windows 10’s support doesn’t necessitate an immediate upgrade to Windows 11, it’s strongly advisable to do so. Upgrading ensures that you are safeguarded against critical security risks and other vulnerabilities. Additionally, as time progresses, support from third-party applications for Windows 10 will diminish.
Steps to Upgrade to Windows 11
Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is straightforward, seamless, and designed to prevent data loss. If you have a licensed version of Windows 10 installed on your computer or laptop and it meets the hardware specifications for Windows 11, an upgrade option will appear in the Windows Update section. The upgrade process may take a few hours, but it remains free of charge for Windows 10 users for the foreseeable future.
Alternatively, you can manually create a bootable USB drive using the Windows Media Creation Tool, boot from it through the UEFI menu, and reinstall the operating system. Most contemporary PCs already satisfy the minimum requirements for Windows 11, which include:
If your device falls short of these requirements, unfortunately, you won’t be able to upgrade to Windows 11, and your only recourse would be to purchase a new device.
Options for Continuing Updates Post-Support
If you’re not ready to move on from Windows 10 just yet, Microsoft has a solution for you, even after support ends. Through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, Windows 10 users can opt to receive critical and important security updates for an additional year.
Enrollment in this program requires a one-time fee of $30 (approximately 29 euros), with registration expected to be available next year. Both private individuals and business customers should be able to participate. However, it’s important to note that only critical security patches will be provided under the ESU program; less critical updates or new features will not be included.