Windows 10 users have been experiencing noticeable slowdowns in system performance over the past few months, and the situation is expected to worsen in the coming days. This decline can be attributed to the fact that Microsoft is now only providing essential security and application updates for Windows 10 worldwide.
The situation is set to change drastically in October 2025, as Microsoft has officially announced it will end support for Windows 10 by the end of that year. With this in mind, cybersecurity firm ESET is advising Windows 10 users to upgrade to either Windows 11 or Linux within the next six months. After this period, Windows 10 may become a significant target for cyberattacks, as it will no longer receive vital security updates.
Once support for Windows 10 ends on October 13, 2025, users will not receive any further free security updates. This leaves systems vulnerable to exploitation by hackers, leading to potential data breaches, malware infections, or even espionage. Users may consider purchasing an extended warranty for security, but without it, their systems could become increasingly risky.
According to StatCounter, as of December 2024, over 63% of Windows users are still running Windows 10, compared to just 30% using Windows 11. This large user base will likely become prime targets for cybercriminals, recalling past attacks like the 2017 WannaCry and NotPetya viruses.
Another challenge is that many Windows 10 machines cannot be upgraded to newer operating systems due to incompatible hardware or software. Gamers, however, are more likely to upgrade their hardware to support the latest Windows versions. Similarly, individuals and businesses will likely invest in newer systems with Windows 11 pre-installed.
The biggest concern, however, lies with government agencies worldwide, which often face budget limitations. These agencies will be particularly vulnerable, as their reliance on outdated systems will make them easy targets for hackers seeking to exploit security weaknesses
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