Deadly Game of Russian Roulette Performed by Prisoners in Jail - "Windows 10 Continues to Operate on Multiple Personal Computers" (Paraphrased)
Millions of personal and business computers in Germany continue to run Windows 10, despite Microsoft ending its support for the operating system on October 14. According to research, around 57% of all Windows computers in Germany still use Windows 10, with only 17.9 million having upgraded to Windows 11 [1].
Delayed upgrade cycles in German companies and users, hardware and compatibility issues, and a cautious approach to upgrading are some of the reasons for this persistent use [4]. The migration to Windows 11 has been slower in Germany compared to global trends.
The situation creates a tension: businesses and users face potential security risks as end-of-support means no more security patches from Microsoft, yet the transition away from Windows 10 remains gradual and incomplete [1][4].
Alexander Opel, an IT security expert at Eset, warns that continuing to use an outdated operating system like Windows 10 is playing Russian roulette with data [2]. He advises against purchasing Extended Support, which Microsoft offers for a fee, as it only delays the inevitable switch and can be costly for many organizations.
Cybercriminals are already waiting to exploit vulnerabilities as soon as support for Windows 10 ends. In addition to the millions of computers still on Windows 10, there are around one million computers in Germany using ancient operating systems like Windows 7, Windows 8, 8.1, and Windows XP, which have been insecure for years [3].
Ranjit Atwal, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, forecasts a "cautionary pause" in the purchase of new PCs due to increased economic and geopolitical risks [5]. PC manufacturers are trying to clear their excess inventory, which might lead to fire sales in the second half of the year.
[1] StatCounter [2] Eset [3] Eset [4] Federal Office for IT Security (BSI) [5] Gartner
- Among the reasons for the gradual transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 in Germany, Alexander Opel, an IT security expert at Eset, suggests that continued use of an outdated operating system like Windows 10 is akin to playing Russian roulette with data, highlighting the importance of community policy pertaining to cybersecurity and technology in mitigating potential risks.
- In the face of heightened cybersecurity threats, particularly with the end of support for Windows 10, companies and users in Germany should be wary of purchasing Extended Support from Microsoft, for it only delays the inevitable switch and could be financially burdensome, emphasizing the significance of employment policy in addressing cybersecurity concerns.
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