Millions just ditched Windows 10 for good and there's an urgent reason why

We're now less than four months away from Microsoft ending all free support for Windows 10, and it seems this upcoming deadline is finally having a big impact on its users. Latest figures from the team at Statcounter show that Windows 11 adoption is now at its highest ever level, whilst Windows 10 has fallen considerably over the past few weeks.

According to Statcounter, Windows 11 now makes up 47 percent of the market, whilst Windows 10 is only just ahead with a 49 percent share. This is the closest it's ever been between these two platforms and clearly shows that millions are now jumping ship.

At the start of the year, Windows 10 had a whopping 60 percent share of the market, with Windows 11 lagging well behind with just 36 percent of PC owners using it.

That gap has slowly been eroded, with nothing now between these platforms.

It's no surprise that Windows 11 is on the up. From October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer get any updates, security patches or new features.

Users will be able to pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs), but these will only offer bug fixes and nothing else.

It's worth noting that Windows 10 PCs will continue to work after the October deadline, but they will be far more prone to cyber attacks and viruses.

"Once a Microsoft operating system (OS) reaches the end of support, customers will no longer receive technical assistance, software updates, or security fixes. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported," Microsoft explained.

If you've not yet made the switch, time is running out. There are a number of options to stay safe and up to date.

Firstly, you can install Windows 11 on your current PC. If it's not compatible then you'll need to buy a new Windows 11-powered device.

Don't want to splash out on a new PC? The other option is to sign up for those ESUs which will be available for three years.

Explaining more, Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President, Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Windows said: "We understand that some of you may require additional time while moving to a new Windows 11 PC or Copilot+ PC. During this period, you may wish to take steps to help secure your existing PC.

"For the first time ever, we’re introducing an ESU program for personal use as well. The ESU program for consumers will be a one-year option available for $30. Program enrollment will be available closer to the end of support in 2025."

Another option is to switch over to Linux instead. Most PCs can install this open-source operating system, and it doesn't have the same lack of support as Windows 10.