• Windows 10 is getting extended support through to October 2027
• That's an extra year on the original deadline, although Microsoft didn't formally announce the extension
• It gives those who were worrying about what to do next with their Windows 10 PC (especially if it wasn't compatible with Windows 11) some welcome room to breathe

Microsoft has given consumers another year of extended support for Windows 10 without any formal announcement of this move.

Windows Latest spotted that Microsoft changed its info on Windows 10's Extended Security Updates (ESU) scheme to indicate that support now runs through to next October.

The section about the deadline now reads: "Windows 10 support has ended. You can enroll in ESU any time until the program ends on October 12, 2027. If you're already enrolled, your coverage will automatically continue through that date — no action needed."

So, as noted, this means that if you're signed up for the ESU, you will continue to get updates not for another four months — as the original deadline for support ending was October 2026 — but for 16 months. It's still possible to sign up for the ESU program if you haven't yet done so, too.

Microsoft confirmed to Windows Latest that this isn't a mistake in the text, and the ESU does indeed now run for another year.

Analysis: a commendable move from Microsoft – but a jaded reaction

I still run Windows 10 on my main PC (Windows 11 is on my secondary PC), and I was about to fire up the upgrade most likely next month, or perhaps August — but soon, anyway. This gives me, and no doubt plenty of others, some extra breathing room. A lot of it, actually, which is very welcome.

I may still upgrade to Windows 11 this year, but given my procrastinatory ways, I might well wait until next year now. Especially seeing as Microsoft is busy fixing Windows 11 in all sorts of ways currently, so it kind of makes sense to wait until all that work is done anyway.

Clearly enough, this is a positive move for consumers, and I'm pleased to see it. I've argued before that a year of extended support wasn't enough — considering the hardware requirements rule out many PCs from upgrading to Windows 11 — and that Microsoft should give consumers a second year. (Especially given all the e-waste issues raised around Windows 10's end of the line in the past).

With that second year now confirmed, I'm rather surprised that Microsoft doesn't appear to have announced this anywhere, and just made the change to its website info quietly in the background.

Perhaps the idea is to keep it on the down-low, so as not to put off any imminent upgraders? At any rate, much of the reaction to this decision is pretty muted. One of the most upvoted comments on this Reddit thread is: "So are they finally admitting that Windows 11 isn't good enough almost 5 years later?"

You don't have to look far to find other jaded commentary like: "The moment the support expires I'll go with Linux."

Also, some folks have taken the line that it's not a surprise to see Microsoft extend support, and indeed that it always does this. And yes, that's true for businesses, where the company may support an outgoing Windows version for multiple years. But this isn't the case for consumers; remember Windows 10 is the first time Microsoft has ever offered extended support outside of the business world.

As a reminder, the support is free (as long as you're willing to sync your PC settings to OneDrive, which isn't that big a deal, at least not in my opinion), or you can pay $30. If you've already signed up, there's no extra charge for the second year, as you might hope.

As observed by a Redditor above, it's almost five years since Windows 11 was launched — and the OS was formally announced half a decade ago this week, in fact. I just wrote about that at length, and how I'm more optimistic about the future of Windows 11 at this point than I've ever been. Still, as mentioned, I won't be rushing to upgrade just yet on my primary computer, but I'll put the trigger on that update eventually.

Microsoft's PowerToys is arguably one of the best additions you can make to Windows 11 (or 10). It adds a bunch of powerful little tools to the operating system, and unlike third-party utilities, these are actually made by Microsoft, so there's that extra guarantee that they're going to 'play nice' with Windows 11. (Well, hopefully). Plus, you certainly won't need to be worried that you're installing software that could be up to no good in the background, like crypto-jacking or other nastiness.

I adopted PowerToys as my tech new year's resolution for 2026, and I continue to be impressed with the functionality delivered by some of the tools — which aren't just for power-users, despite the name of this suite (although admittedly some of them are firmly aimed at that category of Windows 11 user).

One of the strengths of PowerToys is that you can pick and choose which toys you want to have active — enabling them, or turning them off, at the flick of a slider — and Microsoft just added a couple of nifty new options with the latest version of the open-source suite, which was released recently.

I updated to PowerToys v0.99 this week, keen to try a new utility called Power Display (which it should be noted is still officially in preview, so it's a beta technically). This provides easy to access controls for your monitor, or indeed multiple monitors, in Windows.

It means that you can adjust the brightness level of your monitor directly from the system tray in the taskbar, as well as tweaking the contrast or color temperature in the same way, and the volume if your display has built-in speakers. You can also change the input source with Power Display, and a few other bits and pieces.

There's additional functionality in terms of custom profiles you can apply with a mouse click, too, which could be put in place across multiple displays. Power Display is integrated with Light Switch, too, another PowerToys utility that allows for changing between light and dark modes automatically on a time schedule.

As a result, you can tie different monitor profiles in Power Display to when Windows 11 is automatically switched into light or dark mode — which is very cool.

I like the overall ease of use here, with simple sliders to operate right there on the Windows 11 desktop, instead of having to mess around with my monitor's on-screen display (a clunky button-navigated affair that's best avoided, and that's the case for many monitors). The Light Switch integration is a thoughtful touch, too.

What's important to note here is that as Microsoft explains, Power Display "uses DDC/CI to talk to your external monitors", meaning that it communicates directly with the hardware, making an adjustment just as if you were applying it on the monitor itself.

That's great because there's no fudging here — it's not, for instance, simply applying a dark filter to dim the screen when you turn the brightness down, rather than actually adjusting the monitor settings.

The catch, however, is that Power Display needs that DDC/CI functionality, so the monitor must support it to have full functionality.

Notably, integrated displays on laptops won't have DDC/CI, and so all you'll get is a simple brightness slider here, and no other trimmings.

Some desktop monitors, meanwhile, may require you to dive into the settings and enable DDC/CI, but once you've done so, you'll be good to go with Power Display. (In the newest version 0.99.1 of PowerToys, Microsoft has provided more troubleshooting advice for situations where a monitor proves problematic with Power Display — remember, this is still a tool that's in preview, so it remains a work in progress).

Window of opportunity for Microsoft

For me, Power Display is another great addition to the PowerToys library, and I don't even have multiple displays (where I'm sure it'll prove of even more benefit).

A further new tool with v0.99, Grab and Move, is a more simplistic seeming add-on, but it also looks highly useful. This provides the ability to quickly resize or drag a window by clicking anywhere on it and holding down the Alt key, removing some of the fiddlier window management you might encounter at times in Windows 11.

Some people have been clamoring for both of these features to be introduced to Windows 11, and I can see why. So, while it's great to get them in PowerToys, it would be even better to have these features built into Windows 11 itself, bringing them to everyone on the desktop OS. (Given that not that many folks can be bothered to download PowerToys, or even know what it is — and some think it's just a suite of tools for power-users and Windows enthusiasts, which, as already noted, is true for some of the utilities, but far from all of them).

What with Microsoft's ongoing effort to fix Windows 11 and all its problems, as well as honing the operating system in many ways, I think an obvious move is to bring in some of these PowerToys — certainly the two new tools I've discussed here. In fact, it seems like a no-brainer to introduce some of the more popular and streamlined add-ons from PowerToys.

Granted, there may be those who shout about 'more system bloat', but many of these tools are very lightweight for the functionality they add, and they could be options that you must enable (turned off by default).

Power Display, in particular, has led to plenty of people voicing opinions along the lines of this view expressed on Reddit: "Still absolutely wild that this isn't just built into Windows, though."

I wholeheartedly agree that it's wild, but with Microsoft's new focus on making sweeping changes, and aiming to please the crowd in its big revamp of Windows 11, it's possible that the company may be listening to this feedback — and could act on it.

Stranger things have happened — like getting full control over being able to delay Windows updates indefinitely, which is something I never thought would be witnessed in Windows 11 Home.

• Windows 11 updates are being improved to stop installation failures
• An update that would previously have fallen over will now receive extra attention in the form of automatic attempts to recover
• This means the update process will take longer, but will hopefully be successful in the end where it would have failed in the past

Microsoft has been doing a lot of work to Windows 11 updates lately, and there's another move afoot that should hopefully cut down on annoying installation failures.

Windows Latest reports that if you notice a monthly update is taking a long time to apply, and the installation process (shown by a spinning circle with a percentage progress indicator) seems to be going on for a long time, you don't have to worry unduly that Windows 11 might have crashed.

In fact, this could be a good sign, as Microsoft explains in a recent post on Windows Update improvements: "We are ensuring devices stay secure by default through automatic recovery for update failures – taking additional steps in the background to help the update complete successfully without user intervention.

"This means your device will automatically attempt to recover from installation failures in real time – causing some updates to take longer to complete, but ensuring they have a higher success rate."

What this means is that before Microsoft made this change, an update that went down this path would simply have failed. With the new way of working, Windows 11 notices the point of failure, and then goes back to try and fix whatever the problem is.

This is why you could be waiting a fair old while, but hopefully for a positive result in the end — a successful update, rather than being dumped back to the desktop with a 'failed to install' message pinned to the latest patch in Windows Update.

Analysis: putting a stop to the stop codes

This is another useful move for Windows 11 updates, and it'll hopefully mean an end to what has been one of the most long-running bugbears for Windows 11 updates, and it's something that's been a persistent thorn in the side of Windows 10 users, too.

We've regularly seen a rash of installation failures with certain updates ever since Windows 10 first arrived back in 2015. This has been a problem that just keeps popping up, where there are many reports of an update falling over (often with a weird and meaningless 'stop code' error), and with any luck, going forward we won't see this nearly as much.

It's important to note that Microsoft also says it has "made steady progress in reducing the download and overall time it takes to apply a Windows update" and is working on getting this time down ever further over the course of 2026. So, while some updates may take longer, this is only under the circumstances in which they would otherwise have completely failed. (As an aside, it's also worth remembering that currently, you may experience a lengthy update, with multiple reboots, for a specific reason pertaining to the Secure Boot feature).

Microsoft's other important changes for Windows 11 updates recently include providing a facility I've personally wanted for a long time, namely the option to delay a patch indefinitely (or for as long as it takes until a bug you're concerned about is fully fixed). The controls for when updates are installed have also been refined, and unexpected sudden reboots for upgrades should be a thing of the past before long. On top of that, you can now skip applying updates in the Windows 11 setup process, should you wish.

To be fair to Microsoft, it's solving pretty much all the major issues around Windows 11 updates.

• Microsoft has explained why some standard monthly updates require multiple reboots of late
• This is due to extra changes the update packs for Secure Boot certificates
• The rebooting behavior has made some Windows 11 users worry the update is going wrong, but rest assured, everything is working as intended

Microsoft has explained why Windows 11 updates are taking a lot longer recently, and in some cases can require multiple reboots – and thankfully, this isn't anything to worry about.

Windows Latest spotted that Microsoft posted a message to its Windows release health dashboard to note that: "With recent and upcoming Windows updates over the next few months, a limited number of consumer and business devices might experience one additional restart during installation. This one‑time restart occurs after a Secure Boot certificate update is applied as part of the Secure Boot update process."

So, this is due to the Secure Boot certificate changes that Microsoft let us know about earlier in the year, informing us they would be part of the monthly cumulative updates for Windows 11 (and Windows 10, for those on extended support).

While Microsoft indicates that affected Windows 11 users should expect one additional reboot, meaning two in total with the update in question, Windows Latest observes that some people have reported three reboots.

Analysis: multiple reboots can trigger an impending sense of doom

The issue here is that usually a monthly update for Windows 11 needs just a single reboot to be applied. Given that, when your PC restarts for a third time during what should be a simple, relatively limited update, it's only natural to start fearing that something's wrong and that your system has gone off the rails – or maybe into a repeating boot loop.

The dreaded boot loop is one of the most unpleasant problems you can encounter, with the PC stuck rebooting over and over, meaning you have to go into the recovery menu to try potentially tricky solutions to right things and actually get to the Windows 11 desktop again.

At any rate, at least now you know about this behavior – and you might experience it in the May update for Windows 11 potentially, which arrives a week today. These Secure Boot changes had a wider rollout in April, and will be deployed to more folks this month.

If you're wondering why Secure Boot is needing any attention at all, this is because the mentioned certificates were issued in 2011 and expire in June 2026 – so they need to be updated with the new versions from 2023.

Secure Boot is an important feature in that it's designed to stop certain malware – the likes of rootkits – compromising your PC before it even loads the operating system (potentially flying totally under the radar).

Unfortunately, as Windows Latest further points out, there are some Windows 11 users who are having trouble receiving the new certificates due to firmware issues. In reality, then, as this is a necessary tweak for Secure Boot to continue keeping you safe, experiencing multiple reboots with your next update is likely a good sign, as it means the new certificate (should) hopefully be in place.

• ChromeOS Flex is now available to buy in kit form
• The $3 kit provides a USB stick and full instructions to install the OS easily
• Flex is meant to breathe new life into old hardware, specifically Windows 10 PCs, which soon run out of road for extended support

ChromeOS Flex is a lightweight OS designed to be easily installed on older PCs — like Windows 10 laptops — to provide a way to keep what would otherwise become obsolete hardware usable, and it's now even easier to install.

That's because, as was previously promised, Google, in conjunction with Back Market (an outfit that specializes in refurbished tech), now has a ChromeOS Flex kit available to buy.

It costs $3 (or £3 in the UK, €3 in Europe) and for that outlay, you get a USB stick containing the operating system and guides on how to install it.

The Flex version of Google's OS is pretty much the same as standard ChromeOS, albeit with some features cut, and with its highly streamlined (cloud-focused) nature, it's designed to run nicely on older hardware.

Emphasizing the eco-friendly aspects here, Google tells us: "The manufacturing process of a new laptop is responsible for a large part of its carbon footprint. ChromeOS Flex allows the already-manufactured device to be used for longer, which keeps hardware out of landfills and avoids the emissions of making a new device. Savings do not stop there, ChromeOS also consumes 19% less energy on average than other comparable systems."

As the blog post announcing the arrival of the $3 kit makes clear, this is targeted at Windows 10 PCs, which will lose extended support (updates) for consumers this October, in six months. (Official support actually ceased last October.)

It will also convert other machines, including some Macs, to ChromeOS Flex, and there's a full list of compatible devices here (including caveats, such as if a webcam might not work with Google's OS).

Analysis: Flex for the win

It's a great idea to produce a dead easy-to-use kit in order to try and recruit more PCs to the ChromeOS Flex fold. As Back Market puts it, this is about "administering the cure" for the Windows 10 blues, and the "side effects may include curiosity".

All you need to do is turn off your laptop, put the USB stick in a free port, boot the machine, and from the boot menu, install ChromeOS Flex from the USB key. As mentioned, the full instructions are provided, and the kit is commendably cheap at just a few bucks. The idea is that you can pass it on to others once you're done, and as this is still a pilot program for now, there's a limited number of these kits. More will be made if they're popular, though.

However, you don't have to buy a kit, as you can make your own USB stick and install ChromeOS Flex by following our full guide here. The kit does make everything very novice-friendly, though, which is the idea, of course.

• Windows 11 is now on 72.78% market share of Windows versions
• According to StatCounter, it's jumped 22% in the past two months
• Windows 10 has fallen from 44.68% at the end of last year to 26.45%

It seems that Windows 10 is finally getting pushed firmly aside, as Windows 11's market share has jumped in a big way since 2026 began.

According to the latest figures for Windows market share in February 2026 from StatCounter, Windows 11 hit 72.78%. That was up from 62.41% in January, and the OS was only at 50.73% at the end of December 2025.

In short, Windows 11 has gained a mammoth 22% market share in just two months since this year began.

Unsurprisingly, the analytics firm recorded a similar drop for Windows 10, which stood at 44.68% at the end of 2025, and has now slumped to 26.45%, a drop of over 18%.

Windows 11's other gains came at the expense of Windows 7, which has dwindled to almost nothing (at long last), dropping to 0.6% (it was at 3.8% at the end of 2025).

Analysis: PC price hikes are likely a driving factor

This is a telling shift for Windows 11, following some serious wobbles for the OS last year in terms of market share. Of course, we should bear in mind the usual caveats: this is just one set of figures from a single source, and the way StatCounter gathers its data doesn't reflect the number of PCs out there directly. (It's based on website visits, any given Windows system that's very active online will have a disproportionate influence on the stats, as I discussed recently).

Still, even with those nuances taken into account, clearly something big has happened over the last couple of months for Windows 11, with a shift of over 20%. Why now, though? I think this could well represent quite a lot of businesses who needed hardware upgrades to get Windows 11 — as their fleets of Windows 10 computers weren't compatible with the newer OS — and they've gone ahead and upgraded now, to avoid the bigger price hikes on PCs that may well come into play later this year (sparked by the RAM crisis).

The same is likely true of consumers, who may have pulled the trigger on a new Windows 11 laptop in the past couple of months to grab a decent price, rather than being hit more by the mentioned memory crisis-related price rises.

Both businesses and consumers will need to decide what to do ahead of October 2026 anyway, as this is when Microsoft's free year of support for Windows 10 runs out for the latter (and the price of extended support is increased for companies). I'm guessing March is going to be another sizeable increase in Windows 11 adoption, before things slow down leading up to October.

• Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 get up to three years' ESU, at a cost
• For Windows 10, it'll be $61/year, doubling annually
• Critical and important security updates have got you covered

Microsoft has confirmed Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 will be eligible for up to three years of Extended Security Updates (ESU) as the company battles with continued slow uptake of its latest platform.

Windows 11 didn't exactly hit the ground running – it launched in October 2021, but it only came close to Windows 10's market share in mid-2025.

In February 2026, Windows 10 still accounts for 36% of all Windows installs (via Statcounter), compared with Windows 11 at 62% - with Windows 7 in third place with barely more than a 1% share.

Windows 10 users given a paid lifeline

Windows 10 reached end of service (EOS) in October 2025, and most users are now unable to get security updates, but fixes or technical support, let alone new features.

The ESU program aims to plug the gap between OS migration by giving companies access to critical and important security updates, but that's pretty much it. Still no new features.

This isn't the first time that Microsoft has offered a paid lifeline to slow or reluctant upgraders, but though the pricing has not yet been confirmed, we do at least expect it to be pricey. Windows Server 2012 was previously given an ESU program costing 100% of its licence cost annually.

As for Windows 10, eligible customers will pay $61 per device for the first year, or $45 if managed with Intune or Windows Autopatch. The price doubles annually thereafter.

"If you decide to enroll devices in the ESU program in year two, you will also need to pay the year one costs as ESUs are cumulative," Microsoft added. "The more complex your environment, the more lifecycle events you need to juggle – we know!"

Though the company is giving "the gift of time," it does urge users to seriously start thinking about upgrading to Windows Server 2025, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024.

• Microsoft says Secure Boot certificates are being updates, and Windows 10 isn't fully eligible
• Affected devices will enter a "degraded security state"
• Is this another push to drive Windows 11 adoption?

Microsoft is rolling out updated Secure Boot certificates as previous certificates are set to expire following 15 years of service -which could be bad news if you're still running Windows 10.

The company has described the update, which is set to affect millions of devices, as "one of the largest coordinated security maintenance efforts across the Windows ecosystem."

Anybody still holding onto Windows 10 will only get the renewed Secure Boot certificates if they've subscribed to the paid ESU program, because non-subscribed devices are no longer compatible with the latest monthly Windows updates (that include the new certificates).

Updated Secure Boot certificates might cut off Windows 10 features

Secure Boot works by running before Windows even loads to make sure that malicious software doesn't load. The Windows maker explained that devices that don't get the new certificates will enter a "degraded security mode."

They'll still work, but with limited boot-level protections and increased exposure to emerging threats. They might also face future compatibility issues.

As ever, Microsoft can't just pull the plug on Windows 10 overnight, but the gradual phasing out of the previous-gen OS will certainly push users towards upgrading.

And Statcounter figures show exactly that – as of January 2026, Windows 10 adoption stands at 36%, way below Windows 11's 62% market share. The two exchanged first and second positions back in the summer of 2025.

"By renewing these certificates, the Windows ecosystem is ensuring that future innovations in hardware, firmware and operating systems can continue to build on a secure, industry-aligned boot process," Windows Servicing and Delivery Partner Director Nuno Costa wrote.

• A new menu bar could be brought to Windows 11
• It would come in the form of an optional dock for Command Palette in PowerToys
• This would contain shortcuts to your favorite tools, as well as system-monitoring info, but it's just a concept for now

Windows 11 may not allow you to move the taskbar to the top of the screen, but it could give you a top menu bar as a kind of substitute for that ability, and that's an idea I like – but it's proving somewhat divisive.

Windows Central highlighted this potential new development, and I should make it clear upfront that this is a proposed addition for PowerToys, Microsoft's suite of add-on tools for Windows 11, and not a possible change to the OS itself.

The new feature is an optional dock for Command Palette, which is one of the tools in PowerToys – it's a launcher for Windows 11, essentially. (Command Palette will take over from the Run utility eventually, though it's still a work in progress for now).

Said dock comes in the form of a menu bar that can be situated along the top (or sides, or indeed the bottom) of the Windows 11 desktop environment. It can carry info readouts for your system – like a little display for CPU usage, or internet speeds – as well as allowing you to pin your favorite functionality and PowerToys utilities to the bar.

As usual with PowerToys, if you really want to go in-depth with the feature there will be all sorts of customization tricks possible, including altering the appearance of the dock with a different backdrop, or having it use a light or dark theme.

Analysis: taskbar stand-in

So, this is sort of like a PowerToys-focused taskbar alternative which you can deploy anywhere as noted, giving you more quick and convenient access to these utilities, and a variety of functionality besides, alongside at-a-glance displays for system info.

I like the idea and would welcome this addition to PowerToys, although some people aren't too happy with the idea of losing desktop real-estate to a second bar (with the taskbar already along the bottom of the screen, of course). That's fair enough, and you don't have to turn on the Command Palette dock if you don't want it. (Assuming it ever gets made, that is – we don't know if this project has any legs yet, it's just a concept right now).

The dock could work better, perhaps, if the bar only appeared visible if you moused over the top (or side) area of the screen where it's located.

There are others who approve of this idea in principal, but would rather this was implemented as a full taskbar replacement. Meaning that you could add in Windows 11 taskbar elements as 'widgets' on this dock, and then permanently hide the taskbar, using this instead of it (and placing it wherever you wanted, of course). Realistically, though, I don't see that happening – PowerToys isn't designed to replace Windows 11 functionality, it's an add-on pack of extras.

Seeing as Microsoft appears to have just turned over a new leaf in terms of improving Windows 11 – promising to stamp out bugs, and pep up performance levels and overall responsiveness – maybe this new attitude might just include giving us long-awaited abilities like moving the taskbar, anyway? I doubt it, given how far we've got with this functionality remaining banished from Microsoft's newest OS, but I guess you never know.

• Microsoft has promised to fix Windows 11
• The company will undertake a major effort to smooth out performance issues and fix bugs
• It's acting based on 'clear' feedback from Windows 11 users and testers who aren't happy with the current failings of the desktop OS

Microsoft has finally said that it's going to work hard on fully fixing Windows 11, smoothing over performance issues and remedying glitches.

The Verge got the scoop here and reports that Windows engineers are going to focus on fixing the core problems with the desktop operating system. This will happen in a process called 'swarming' – which is basically referring to bringing a lot of software engineers together to work collaboratively on bug fixing and fine-tuning.

In short, it means Microsoft is throwing everything it has got at fixing up Windows 11, and not before time.

Pavan Davuluri, who heads up the Windows and devices division at Microsoft, told The Verge: "The feedback we're receiving from our community of passionate customers and Windows Insiders has been clear. We need to improve Windows in ways that are meaningful for people.

"This year you will see us focus on addressing pain points we hear consistently from customers: improving system performance, reliability, and the overall experience of Windows."

Analysis: reputational recovery

Obviously, it's one thing to say this, and another thing to go through with it – and get results. I'm hoping that we'll start to notice differences in Windows 11 sooner rather than later, and the initial goal, I'd imagine, is to stem the flow of bugs in the first place.

In this first month of 2026, we've witnessed quite a number of fresh gremlins scurrying around in the innards of Windows 11, causing quite a bit of havoc for some users. Indeed, some nasty bugs have been evident, such as that boot failure glitch, and reported issues around sleep mode with older PCs (and much more besides). A terrible start to a new year, all in all.

If Microsoft can bring Windows 11 back on more of an even keel with updates, so that they aren't, for example, solving some issues while bringing in a bunch of new bugs, that'll be a good start to this 'swarming' effort to fix Windows 11 and its fundamentals.

Performance tuning will also be key here, and that includes speeding up File Explorer and making it more responsive, as it's been a long-complained-about sluggish aspect of Windows 11.

I write about Windows pretty much daily, and one of the common themes that constantly pops up for me is how Microsoft is losing trust with Windows 11 users due to all the brokenness, the bugs, and the sluggish performance.

Davuluri acknowledges this in one of his statements to The Verge, observing that: "Trust is earned over time and we are committed to building it back with the Windows community."

Trust is crucial when it comes to one of the other key areas of Windows 11 for Microsoft – namely AI. If the reputation of Windows 11 keeps suffering blow after blow – due to this bug, or that performance glitch – over and over, the desktop OS may never recover its standing.

And if users don't have any faith in Microsoft to keep Windows 11 together and in generally decent working order – how are they going to have trust in the AI agents Microsoft so desperately wants to make one of the cornerstones of its OS going forward? They won't, and Microsoft's AI plans will come off the rails as a result – particularly if these agents turn out to be buggy themselves.

AI has, of course, been a very controversial area for Windows 11. People feel Microsoft is relentlessly pushing AI as the next big thing, bringing it to all corners of the operating system (more or less) with dubious benefits, and moreover at the cost of ignoring the fundamentals and everything that's wrong with Windows 11.

This is Microsoft signalling that this is no longer the case. I just hope it turns into more than just mere signalling, and 2026 does indeed prove to be the year where Microsoft turns Windows 11 quality assurance around – which will require a longer-term strategy than 'swarming' it should be noted – while beating back the performance demons that lurk in certain parts of the OS.

I've already said that I think this year is going to be make-or-break for Windows 11, and it seems that Microsoft now realizes the gravity of this situation. The proponents of Linux in its various flavors certainly do, and are waiting to capitalize on any further failings.

• Windows 11 has reached 1 billion users
• It achieved this four months faster than Windows 10
• You might be confused as to how this has happened, given other recent stats, and the online negativity around Windows 11 – but there are clear enough reasons here

Windows 11 has hit a billion users, Microsoft has announced, and its newest operating system achieved that feat considerably faster than Windows 10.

The Verge reports that the revelation was made by CEO Satya Nadella, who in an earnings call boasted: "Windows reached a big milestone, 1 billion Windows 11 users."

That is indeed a major milestone, and one that you might think has kind of come out of nowhere – though it's not actually a surprise, even given some of the more negative stats that have been aired around Windows 11 adoption of late. I'll come back to why that's the case in a moment.

As The Verge observes, Windows 11 managed to hit the magic billion mark 1,576 days after the OS was launched, whereas Windows 10 took 1,706 days. So the newer OS was just over four months quicker than Windows 10.

Analysis: a wake-up call that Windows 11 isn't going anywhere – if you needed one

If you recall, yesterday I reported that according to Statcounter, an analyst firm that keeps tabs on desktop OS usage, Windows 11's market share actually declined over the past two months. Yet Microsoft says it just hit a billion users, and faster than Windows 10, with its newest desktop platform seemingly going from strength to strength – despite all the negativity around Windows 11 of late (of which there's been plenty).

So, what gives?

There are different ways of tracking – or estimating – Windows 11 adoption, of course. Microsoft is directly tracking active devices running Windows 11, whereas Statcounter is using an indirect method of web analytics. As I noted yesterday, there are quite a lot of complications with the latter undertaking, which relies on tracking code inserted into some 1.5 million sites worldwide.

The composition of those sites can have a bearing on what figures we see, and moreover, this way of tracking isn't counting devices, but the use of Windows PCs visiting websites. In other words, if, say, Windows 10 machines are being used disproportionately more than Windows 11 computers in terms of visits to those sites, they have more 'market share'. Which is to say this isn't purely about device numbers – as Microsoft records – but devices used online, where the period of time of usage (and multiple recorded visits) are also a factor.

I don't want to get too far into the weeds here, but these are important differences, so it's not surprising that these stats reflect rather different pictures of the world of Windows across the globe.

On top of that, if you were thinking that Microsoft has hit a billion with Windows 11 seemingly out of nowhere, that's not actually the case. In fact, this is no real surprise given that the firm said it was close to the billion mark back at Ignite in November 2025 (in a keynote by Pavan Davuluri, who heads up Windows). How close Windows 11 was to this milestone wasn't clarified at the time, and we can only guess at that.

Still, it's another reasonable assumption to guess that Microsoft probably did well for PC sales over the holiday period, which would've spiked Windows 11 user numbers. Given the RAM crisis, and predictions of hiked PC prices in 2026, I'm betting some consumers decided it was time to upgrade to a new Windows 11 PC before such an endeavor became a more pricey proposition.

Moreover, businesses may be upgrading for the same reason – with costs multiplied when talking about fleets of PCs – and due to the end of Windows 10 support. This is another key point when talking about different sources of stats: there's a heavy enterprise user base for Windows, and Statcounter is more picking up on consumer website visits. (Some business PCs may not even be online at all, or they rarely visit the array of sites that the analytics firm uses to compile its data).

It's a complex picture, then, but what we have here is something of a reality check that Windows 11 is not faring nearly as badly as you might think if you look at certain stats, or take in a lot of the negative opinions which are prevalent in online forums. On the latter point, it's also worth remembering that complaints are keenly aired online, but satisfied customers, well, they tend to remain quieter.

Windows 11 reaching a billion users is a wake-up call, then, to remember that it's still a colossus of a desktop operating system – in case you had forgotten, which is easily enough done given all the flak fired at Microsoft in recent times.

All that said, Microsoft still needs to be careful with its desktop operating system. As I've observed, the enterprise space is a big factor with Windows 11, and detractors will point out that a lot of companies are locked into Microsoft's ecosystem for one reason or another (legacy software or systems). And all the negativity about Windows 11 that's floating around online forums – from everyday users, and IT admins alike – is there for a reason. And a big part of that stems from people feeling they aren't being listened to – on the subject of AI being crammed into every corner of Windows 11, and those bugs, and the fundamentals of the OS still seeming way too shaky for such a behemoth product.

Microsoft may have welcomed another OS into the billion-plus user club, which is clearly a major achievement – but it's equally clear that there's still a lot to be done in terms of making this product work better at a foundational level.

• TechSpot retested Windows 11 for gaming performance versus Windows 10
• Windows 11 came out victorious, and was notably faster in some games
• The previous test showed Windows 10 was quicker, but 24H2 has improved Windows 11 considerably on the gaming front – but there are other issues to consider here

What's better for gaming: Windows 11 or Windows 10? If you thought – as quite a few people do – that Windows 10 is faster for performance with PC games (despite it being the older OS), well, not according to a new comparison, although there's admittedly a lot of nuance here.

Still, the headline news is that in a TechSpot test comparing gaming performance across a number of benchmarks, the latest version of Windows 11 (25H2) came out ahead of Windows 10 (22H2, the final incarnation) – albeit there wasn't a huge deal of difference.

As TechSpot concluded: "The verdict? Windows 11 25H2 edges ahead of Windows 10 in gaming performance, though your mileage will vary depending on the hardware configuration, and we obviously can't benchmark every configuration imaginable."

This was based on benchmarking with 14 different games and averaging those results across three resolutions. At 1080p, Windows 11 was 4% faster than Windows 10, and it was 5% quicker at both 1440p and 4K.

Notably, this reversed the outcome of a previous test which showed that Windows 10 (22H2) was faster than Windows 11 23H2, back when the latter was the latest release. TechSpot observes that the 24H2 update actually addressed a number of stumbling blocks with gaming performance.

Here come the catches, then. Obviously, this result is based on one hardware configuration, and as TechSpot admits, it's a high-end setup – AMD's Ryzen 9800X3D processor and Nvidia's RTX 5090 GPU. A lower-end gaming rig might well show a somewhat different perspective, and changing the selection of games could obviously skew the results another way, too.

Using an AMD GPU might do the same, although the test did also run a couple of bonus benchmarks (to clarify some issues with particular games) which used an AMD RX 9070 XT and Ryzen 9700X. That's also a more realistic typical gaming setup (though still high-end), and Windows 11 continued to be faster in one test (by 2% to 3%), although it was a dead-heat in the other. So again, it was a slight nod in favor of the newer operating system.

Away from the averages, there were some eye-opening individual results here. Arc Raiders in particular stands out, as Windows 11 proved to be a huge 11% faster at 1080p, and somehow 14% and 15% quicker at 1440p and 4K respectively. Borderlands 4 was between 9% and 13% swifter in Windows 11, too.

Analysis: various catches – and the giant bug in the room

This is an intriguing battery of tests, and it certainly shows that Windows 11 isn't any slower than Windows 10 – which is an oft-cited anecdotal claim on social media. Although that idea is rooted in the past, where Windows 11 was (a bit) slower, according to TechSpot's previous testing.

This is good news for gamers on Windows 11, then, but we need to bear the mentioned caveats firmly in mind – and that overall, there's hardly a huge gulf in gaming performance (save for the noted outliers).

We should also remember that TechSpot notes it "stripped both operating systems down to minimize interference", meaning turning off VBS, memory integrity and core isolation (security features), as well as antivirus and the like – which seems a sensible precaution (but not everybody does so).

Caveats aside, though, my problem – and I suspect the issue for a lot of PC gamers – isn't the performance levels which turned out well for Windows 11 here. It's those bugs.

If you're running Windows 11, you are more likely to hit frustrations with glitches, and while 24H2 may have improved gaming performance nicely as TechSpot explains, it was also crawling with gremlins. It was the start of a bad run of bugs for Microsoft, and we're still seeing Windows 11 get hit by these annoyances in the very first patch of 2026, which has packed some truly nasty issues, including boot failures and also messing up sleep mode for some older PCs. There have been quite a few gaming-related glitches with Windows 11, too.

Okay, so not everyone runs into bugs with Windows 11, and of course it depends on the PC configuration, the apps installed, and for gamers, the specific GPU they have and games they often play, how often they update their drivers, and so on. There are a lot of moving parts, and that includes Microsoft's monthly updates for Windows 11, which can introduce gaming (or other) bugs out of the blue.

Windows 10, on the other hand, is a much more stationary beast. It's only getting monthly security updates, with no new features, and a minimal level of fiddling about with the underlying codebase. It's more stable and dependable, in short, and gamers who are on Windows 10 must surely watch the Windows 11 bug reports and frustrations roll in, and think to themselves, 'well, I won't bother upgrading then.' And can you blame them? Even if Windows 11 is now faster than Windows 10 by all accounts (which it should have been anyway, in the first place).

Of course, the situation is going to change when Windows 10 runs out of extended support in October 2026, because at that point, upgrading decisions (or new PC purchases) will be forced. But meanwhile, I think Microsoft's frustration with a lack of migration to Windows 11 from its older OS – with gamers, and indeed everyday users – is going to continue.

That said, some work is seemingly underway to fix the wonky innards of Windows 11 in terms of the prevalence of bugs, and as I discussed elsewhere this morning, I really hope that this comes off – but I don't have any real conviction that it will. Fingers crossed that I'm wrong.

• Microsoft is making "behind-the-scenes platform changes" with Windows 11
• These are efforts in preview builds to fine-tune the fundamentals of the OS
• At the same time, a report suggests a sizeable number of people are fleeing Windows 11 – so could this move help turn that around?

Microsoft is beginning the process of making changes to the underlying platform of Windows 11, prompting both hope but also a measure of fear in some respects – and it comes just as we're seeing the adoption figures for the OS drop.

As announced with the latest preview build from Microsoft (flagged by Windows Central), the Windows 11 releases in the Dev channel are now going to be the 26300 series.

These builds are now separate to the Beta channel, Microsoft explains, which will be the 26220 series, but the important bit is the following sentence: "Over time, we will be making behind-the-scenes platform changes in each build so they may have different known issues because of those changes."

What are behind-the-scenes platform changes exactly? If Windows is a house – one that's quite a fixer-upper in some respects, ahem – then the platform is the foundation it's built on. This is the underlying code, essentially, and modifications here aren't made to add new features, or anything that you'll see overtly – but rather to smooth over the inner workings of Windows 11.

So, what Microsoft is aiming to do here is fix that foundational code, and tune it up to ensure better stability and performance. At least that's in theory, and as I just alluded to, this is certainly work that's needed for Windows 11. Desperately needed, even.

Meanwhile, as Windows Central noticed elsewhere, Statcounter's figures on the desktop OS market worldwide show that Windows 11 market share has dropped over the past two months, while Windows 10 has gained users. Indeed, Windows 11 slipped from a 55.18% market share in October 2025, down to 53.7% the following month, and now it's hit 50.73% as of December (the latest figures).

That's a loss of around 4.5% in a short space of time, with Windows 10 getting most of the gains from that shedding (it's up 3% – although notably, Windows 7 has gained 1.3% too, somehow).

Analysis: hope springs eternal (but confidence is barely a trickle, sadly)

There's a lot to unpack here. I'll start by caveating those operating system figures from Statcounter, which we shouldn't regard as the be-all-and-end-all of how user numbers for Windows versions break down worldwide. It's just one source, and there are complications in terms of how that data is collected. Notably it's very odd that Windows 7 is suddenly making sizable (relative) gains out of nowhere – suggesting this could reflect changes in the survey composition to an extent (which is always an issue with these kind of reports).

Still, there's no doubting that it's worrying for Microsoft that Windows 11 should be losing any ground at all – let alone approaching 5% of market share. Remember that Windows 10 dropped out of (official) support a few months back, and so people should be flocking to Windows 11, although again there's an unusual factor here. Namely that extended support for consumers for the first time ever means it's perfectly viable to stay on Windows 10 for an extra year (through to October 2026).

What could be happening with folks leaving Windows 11, then, is a combination of the effects of that availability of extended updates for the older OS, and all the bad press Windows 11 has been getting around bugs of late. This, and the whole 'Microslop' controversy, with the software giant overly keen to push AI in the operating system, might be causing more people to stick on Windows 10 (or maybe even backtrack from Windows 11 and revert to the previous-gen OS).

Microsoft is obviously aware that there are problems with Windows 11 adoption, and the perception of the platform in general due to all these issues. And so I think this latest preview release is the first step Microsoft is taking towards a solution, fixing up the underlying platform, as noted, and smoothing everything over.

That's the hope I referred to at the outset, but there's also the fear I mentioned. The problem is that when Microsoft tries to fix issues, sometimes it just makes things worse – a given solution may fail, or cause side-effects whereby other bits of Windows 11 end up broken. So, the worry is that we'll see some under-the-hood problems resolved, but we'll just be trading those bugs for different glitches.

If you remember the Germanium platform being introduced, which was the new underlying base for Windows 11 required for Arm-based Snapdragon X laptops, you'll recall that the 24H2 update that carried it was an absolute festival of bugs (and a nightmare, frankly, for some).

The good news is that Microsoft is being smarter about its approach this time. We have a new platform incoming to replace Germanium, called Bromine, which has changes needed for another generation of Arm laptops (Snapdragon X2 silicon, and new Nvidia CPUs too).

This time Microsoft is keeping that release separate from the Windows 11 PCs already out there, as Bromine development is in the (earliest) Canary channel, and it'll be for Arm PCs only when released early this year – it's the 26H1 build you've probably heard about by now.

Development for standard Windows 11 PCs will continue in the Dev and Beta channels, keeping all that separate from the Bromine platform, with the next release being Windows 11 26H2 later this year, still on the (current) Germanium platform.

In short, non-Arm PCs will skip moving to Bromine this year (which is why they won't get 26H1), and will be provided with a tweaked version of Germanium (the changes Microsoft is implementing now). It's kind of complicated and confusing, but at the same time, this approach makes sense in terms of avoiding another 24H2 bug-fest.

If Microsoft can pull this off, and successfully fine-tune Germanium without breaking anything, we should see Windows 11's overall stability improve throughout this year. And I'd like to stay hopeful that this is how it'll pan out; but the trouble is that, given the way things have gone with Windows 11 in the recent past, I don't have any real faith or feeling behind that hope.

And that's Microsoft's real problem, I think: it's lost the trust of consumers, and it needs to make a big effort to regain it. Microsoft needs to focus on doing this work on the foundations of Windows 11, and doing it right, while cooling off the relentless promotion of AI, at least for a while.

I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that getting these fundamentals back in shape is the key to the future of Windows 11 – and not AI agents.

• Microsoft's January update is causing some Cloud PC connections to fail
• Two in-house teams are working together on a fix "in the coming days"
• The build already fixed one issue relating to Azure Virtual Desktop

Microsoft has confirmed that a recent Windows update could be blocking some users' access to Microsoft 365 Cloud PCs. A temporary workaround is in place, but the company is yet to formally release a true fix.

The issue started around 7pm UTC on January 13 (per Bleeping Computer), with users noting sign-in failures and intermittent access problems.

Microsoft blamed the fault on OS Build 26100.7623 (KB5074109), but says the Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows Update teams are working together on a solution.

Microsoft recognizes Cloud PC error

Affected devices include Windows 11 25H2, 24H2 and 23H2; Windows 10 22H2 and 21H2; and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 and 2016.

"After installing the January 2026 Windows security update (KB5074109), credential prompt failures occurred during Remote Desktop connections using the Windows App on Windows client devices, impacting Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365," a status update reads.

For now, users are being advised to use the Windows App Web Client (windows.cloud.microsoft) or the Remote Desktop client to connect to Azure Virtual Desktop.

"We are actively working on a resolution and plan to release an out-of-band (OOB) update in the coming days," the company promised.

This is the bigger of the two known issues related to the latest Windows build – a missing password icon on the lock screen was also reported. It also fixes previously known issues, such as reduced battery performance from an active NPU during device idle and even RemoteApp ​​​​​​​connection failures in Azure Virtual Desktop environments.

• A YouTuber tested six different versions of Windows for speed
• That included Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, 8.1, 10 and 11
• While the results are skewed due to the hardware used for testing – and other elements – the results are still worth considering

Windows 11's performance does not come off at all well in a new comparison test that pits six different versions of Microsoft's desktop OS against each other – although it doesn't do so in a very fair way.

Tom's Hardware noticed the suite of tests run by YouTuber TrigrZolt (see the clip below), and the basic premise is quite flawed – and I'll come back to why later (although it's rather illuminating to compare Windows 11 to 10 in some respects, and I'll return to that point, too).

At any rate, first of all, let's look at the tests themselves, which were carried out on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 and Windows 11 (using the latest, or final, versions in all cases, as you'd expect).

They were run on the same model of laptop, with a bank of six old Lenovo ThinkPad X220 notebooks being used, and this is the major problem with this particular round of testing, as the YouTuber acknowledges (saying this testing is more about 'historic' perspective rather than practicality).

This laptop has an Intel Core i5-2520M CPU and a 256GB hard disk (not an SSD), with 8GB of RAM, and the notebook isn't officially compatible with Windows 11 (but can still be fudged to run the OS, of course).

As noted at the outset, Windows 11 performs pretty badly across most of the tests thrown at these laptops, which are run simultaneously across the different notebooks – you can see some tests, like bootup speed, being performed in real time, while others, like the battery-life test, are sped up.

Speaking of bootup, this is one metric where Windows 11 comes dead last, and even when the desktop does finally appear, the taskbar is notably missing (as it's still loading in). Windows 8.1 is actually the fastest OS to boot.

Windows 11 is also in last place when it comes to the memory that these operating systems consume, due to its larger complement of background processes. The same is true of the battery test, where the Lenovo ThinkPad running Windows 11 died first. (Windows XP was victorious here, although the difference was minor, just a couple of minutes – all the OSes lasted for just over an hour).

In the video-editing test (using OpenShot), Windows 11 came last, too (although the caveat here is that Windows XP and Vista couldn't run this editor). When testing app opening speeds, TrigrZolt found that Windows 11 again came last for firing up Paint (which was notably slower than all other Windows versions), and also File Explorer (that's notoriously sluggish with Windows 11).

Windows 11 did better in some tests, such as storage (the drive space that the operating system consumes, including its default apps), where Microsoft's newest OS ranked fourth (Windows XP wins here, which isn't surprising as it's so lean). Also, in one of the web-page loading tests, Windows 11 came third (but was last in the other one, loading Google's search page).

Windows 11 was nippy in the file transfer test (copying a large ZIP file from a USB stick) as well, finishing second here (it was only a fraction slower than Windows 10 – in fact, it was pretty much a dead heat).

Check out the full range of tests in the video below if you want to see for yourself, before I dive into my analysis.

Analysis: bleak, yet unfair – but Microsoft should still take note

A bleak picture is painted of the general performance prowess of Windows 11 across many fronts here, but as I've mentioned there are hefty caveats. The most obvious sticking point here is that it's not fair to use a laptop that doesn't meet the minimum hardware requirements for an OS, which is the case for this Lenovo notebook and Windows 11.

Those requirements are there for a reason, whether or not you believe Microsoft was right in pushing steeper specs for Windows 11. A PC needs to meet this minimum spec to provide a responsive and reasonable enough experience with Windows 11, and if it doesn't, you can't then complain: 'Hey, look how slow all this runs'. Because Microsoft already told you it'll be a subpar experience with those system requirements.

Some of the app benchmark choices also skew things against Windows 11, such as Paint, which is a far heftier app in the modern OS than it used to be (in other words, a particularly beefed-up default app was chosen here). As does the use of a hard drive, which is ancient tech, really, for a primary system drive these days – any contemporary PC has an SSD.

In short, the design of this suite of tests shows off the worst of Windows 11 in many respects, and the best of a much leaner OS from way back in the day like Windows XP. As Tom's Hardware points out, a better test would be to compare these operating systems running on hardware relevant to their era (so Windows 11 is at least installed on a laptop that meets its minimum spec); although arranging and balancing that alternative test wouldn't be easy, of course.

Furthermore, this testing isn't without merit. It does point out relative shortcomings, such as the slow loading of Paint and File Explorer in Windows 11, or other performance hiccups, and how Windows 10 does better in many ways. That said, a lot of those pain points are to do with Microsoft's choices to beef up Windows 11 and its apps, which again, must be taken into consideration – Microsoft's newest OS does a lot more than the older versions in terms of features and functionality.

Also, the comments on this YouTube video should prove valuable guidance for Microsoft, should the company choose to peruse them. Accusations of Windows 11 being bloated, amongst complaints about telemetry data and background monitoring ('spying' is the term used), are repeated themes.

And there's definitely room for improvement with Windows 11's general performance on the desktop – particularly in the case of File Explorer, which has been a longstanding beef with Microsoft, not to mention the company overly focusing on AI in more recent times at the expense of the OS fundamentals.

How was 2025 for Microsoft? This year was shaky in many respects for the software giant, and notable stumbling blocks included a lacklustre level of migration to Windows 11 – despite the official end of Windows 10 happening in October (with a notable caveat) – and a huge drive with AI features that led to some immense pushback from disgruntled users who are unhappy with the current state of Microsoft's desktop OS.

Let's dive into the details of how Microsoft performed in 2025, starting with those key issues around Windows, and moving on to consider hardware, a glaring gaming fail, and other aspects where the company dropped the ball somewhat – plus there were some highlights, too.

Windows 10 support ran out – but there was no rush to upgrade to Windows 11

On October 14, 2025, the curtain was drawn over Windows 10, as the final official update for the last-gen operating system was deployed. But uniquely for consumers, this wasn't necessarily the end, as for the first time, everyday users were offered the chance to sign up for extended updates (along with businesses that have always had this privilege).

The Extended Security Updates (ESU) scheme was yours for the price of $30, or alternatively, you could just sync your PC settings to OneDrive and avail yourself of a year of extra support (through to October 2026) for no financial cost.

It was good to see Microsoft make this move – by which I mean the (effectively) free option for extended updates, which was implemented relatively late in the day – and it meant that quite a few folks remained on Windows 10 as a result. However, in turn this also meant that migration to Windows 11 has been more of a trickle than a torrent. (Although due to a good many older PCs not being compatible with its steeper system requirements, that was always going to be the case to an extent).

As to how many people ultimately make the move from Windows 10 to 11, that remains to be seen next year, when extended support runs out (assuming there's no further extension to the single additional year currently offered to consumers).

So, Windows 10 support ending turned out to be something of a non-event, although not entirely, as some Linux distros claimed that they were getting a substantial number of Windows defectors right off the bat. Is this the beginning of the long-predicted rise of Linux in the sphere of desktop operating systems? Let's not get carried away yet, but Valve is throwing its weight around in this area too with SteamOS (and I'll come back to why that's important shortly).

Microsoft's big push for more AI in Windows 11 – and how it backfired

It's been a turbulent ride for Windows 11 with AI this year, after Microsoft doubled down on its ambitions in this regard. 2025 was the year that the company declared its ambition to 'make every Windows 11 PC an AI PC' built on voice input, new powers for Copilot and AI agents.

And boy, did that not go down well. Not well at all, at least with many vocal members of the Windows community, and in fact we witnessed an outright rebellion of sorts. The leaders of that uprising came down hard on Microsoft for relentlessly pushing AI features that 'no one wants', and reminded the software giant of what people do want – the bugs and fundamentally wonky parts of Windows 11 to be fixed.

Did Microsoft listen? Er, not exactly – some execs even fired back at AI skeptics, and a quagmire of buzzwords ('agentic AI platforms' and so forth) continued to bubble forth from the company's marketing department and top brass (who'd clearly been primed with an AI hymn sheet to sing from).

It wasn't all bad news for Microsoft regarding AI in 2025, though. Some of the AI features which have emerged are quite nifty, like supercharged searching for Windows 11 on Copilot+ PCs, which is genuinely useful. An AI agent arriving in the Settings apps could actually be quite handy, too (but is some way off that yet).

However, the overall focus on AI feels way too heavy, and just that fact makes people suspicious and wary (at least on the consumer side, anyway). There are also serious privacy worries and security concerns about AI agents in Windows 11, and rightly so – some of Microsoft's acknowledgements on the security front aren't comforting.

It's been a rocky road for AI in Windows 11 this year, and I don't see that path getting any smoother in 2026, either – unless Microsoft seriously rebalances its priorities with Windows 11 (and its PR and marketing efforts, to boot).

Elsewhere Windows 11 plodded along and still struggled with bugs

Away from AI, which was the big focus as mentioned, Microsoft didn't do a whole lot with Windows 11. And certainly not with the big annual upgrade, as there was very little to see with the 25H2 update. That said, there were some useful improvements made to Windows 11 this year, including a laudable new PC recovery option and a redesigned Start menu which made some useful changes.

However, the overriding theme was what Microsoft failed to do with Windows 11 – namely to sort out its quality assurance, keep a lid on bugs, and improve poor areas of the interface and inner workings of the OS where performance is lacking. The gaming side of Windows 11 was particularly problematic at times in 2025, as you may have noticed.

While the bugs weren't quite as prevalent as we witnessed last year, when the 24H2 update – which did make big changes to Windows 11 – caused quite some chaos, there were still too many of them in 2025. And there were some truly odd glitches – like the flashbang when opening folders, or having the interface displayed in a mishmash of two different languages somehow – which make you wonder what's going on at Microsoft, frankly.

And this is who we're trusting to get things right when it comes to autonomous AI agents working with our files inside Windows 11? You can see why people are nervous – and why Microsoft needs to get a better handle on dealing with Windows 11 bugs, and fast.

Gaming woes with Windows 11 as Microsoft treads a difficult path

As noted above, there were some nasty bugs that hit gamers on Windows 11 this year, and quite a bit of frustration therein. And in many ways, that's bad timing for Microsoft, as its operating system is coming under threat from a rival gaming platform – namely SteamOS.

As gamers on Windows 11 feel increasingly annoyed about the various bugs that are chucked their way, they are likely eyeing the progress Valve is making with SteamOS in terms of game compatibility. Moreover, in 2025 Valve changed up another gear with the revelation of its incoming new Steam Machine, which could be a genuine threat to Microsoft, aiming to make gaming in the living room as neat and convenient an experience as possible.

At the end of 2025, Microsoft acknowledged its gaming shortfalls on Windows 11 and promised (broadly) to be fixing them – but again, there's plenty of skepticism around that. And while the company made some commendable efforts to address Windows 11's issues on handhelds – where SteamOS looks so slick in comparison – these, too, fell short, and the Xbox Full Screen Experience represents more of a fudge than a fix (at least so far).

On the handheld front, Microsoft brought out new hardware, too – teaming up with Asus to release the ROG Xbox Ally X portable – and while this device had strengths, certainly, the price tag attached proved a big stumbling block and difficult to swallow.

Xbox Game Pass price hike misery

Sadly, Microsoft dropped the ball in another cost-related way on the gaming front during 2025, and that was with the Xbox Game Pass.

A substantial price increase was introduced in September 2025, when the Ultimate tier for the Xbox Game Pass was hiked to $29.99 / £22.99 / AU$35.95 per month. This was badly received (putting it mildly) and it sparked mass departures from disgruntled gamers (with so many reaching for that cancel button that Microsoft's systems crashed).

Microsoft argued that this price rise was in line with the value being added to the Xbox Game Pass in terms of additional games and extras, but many subscribers didn't feel that those moves justified anything like the increase levied – and voted with their feet.

While subscriber numbers could have suffered – and likely did, though we don't have any figures – revenue didn't, as per mid-2025 (and Microsoft's end of fiscal 25 earnings report) Game Pass annual revenue hit nearly $5 billion for the first time (including PC subscribers, that is). The apparent exodus of gamers after the price hike might rock that boat, but then again, in terms of revenue, those who've stuck with the top-tier of the service are paying a lot more.

All of this could be wrapped up in the bigger financial picture for the Xbox group and purported profit margin targets – don't forget Microsoft also axed jobs in the Gaming division to the tune of 9,000 in July 2025.

Xbox console sales crash and burn

There was more bad gaming news for Microsoft at the end of the year, as sales of its Xbox console were judged to have fallen off a cliff.

According to figures from an analyst firm aired in December, Xbox sales dropped 70% year-on-year – and while Sony didn't do well either, it didn't experience that big a drop (the PS5 was down 40%).

Of course, the Xbox has been struggling against the PS5 in the console wars anyway, and Microsoft's price hikes for its gaming hardware this year clearly didn't help.

Surface hardware didn't have quite the same impact

Last year was a big one for Microsoft's Surface division, as new Arm-based Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 offerings scored resounding home runs. Did we see a repeat of that success in 2025? Not so much.

The Surface Pro 12 felt like a downgrade from the last model in some ways – which admittedly was related to bringing the price down – and while it wasn't a bad device by any means, it failed to carry the excitement through from the last iteration.

The Surface Laptop 13-inch for 2025 made a better impression, and is without doubt a good notebook, but it can't compete with the MacBook Air 13-inch (M4) in performance terms, and loses out in the value battle against that Apple laptop.

All in all, it wasn't a bad 2025 for the Surface line-up, but it fell short of what Microsoft achieved last year.

Conclusion

It was not a good year for Microsoft. Between job losses, and unpopularity around AI, Windows 11 bugs, Xbox Game Pass and console price hikes alongside plummeting Xbox sales, as well as a (predictable) struggle to stoke migration to its newest OS, there was a lot of negativity directed towards the company this year.

In fact, I've been writing these end-of-year roundups for a long time now, and I can't recall many summaries that have been gloomier than Microsoft's report card for 2025.

Not from a consumer point of view, anyway, but here's the twist: in terms of balance sheets and shareholders, Microsoft had a buoyant 2025. The company saw the aforementioned gaming revenue high (with Game Pass), and its juggernaut cloud service tied in with AI witnessed impressive growth, justifying Microsoft's huge investments in AI – at least from a business perspective.

My worry remains that Microsoft is becoming too focused on profits and talking up AI with incessant marketing to please the shareholders, and it's forgetting about the little guys. You know, the people like you and me who use Windows 11 (or 10) on a daily basis.

I'd suggest this is a course Microsoft continues to pursue at its own peril, and I think the firm needs to remember who its grassroots customers are next year – and not just talk about improvements for Windows 11 like fixing gaming, but to actually act on them.

Maybe you've never heard of PowerToys, or maybe you've seen it mentioned on TechRadar and wondered what it is and whether it might be useful. Perhaps you are a bit more familiar with this suite of tools, and you're aware it's designed for so-called 'power-users' and so you've steered well clear, as that makes it sound kind of complicated and techie.

Let's kick off by addressing these points. PowerToys is a collection of utilities from Microsoft itself – an official add-on pack, if you will, for Windows 11 (and 10) that brings all sorts of extra functionality into the mix.

While it is true that PowerToys is aimed at power-users, and it can get pretty intense with some features, it's not just for hardened PC enthusiasts who feel alive when diving into advanced settings and tweaking the BIOS to get the most from their system.

There are some nifty tools in PowerToys for everyday users – people scared of the BIOS, even – that can make a real difference to their daily computing experiences. Having never used PowerToys before, I've just taken the plunge and picked out the best utilities that are easy to use and add powerful functionality to Windows.

I'm expecting these tools to remain on my Windows 11 and 10 PCs to make my life easier in 2026 in a myriad of ways – and there's no reason why you can't benefit from them, too. Here's what you need to do, and which tools I recommend the most after my experimentation with PowerToys.

First things first: install PowerToys

PowerToys is a suite of tools from Microsoft that's compatible with Windows 10 (version 2004 – the May 2020 Update – or newer) and Windows 11. You'll need to download the installer from the Microsoft Store, or there's also a download from GitHub. I'd advise most people to keep things simple and get PowerToys from the Microsoft Store, as that way they'll receive automatic updates (with the Universal Windows Platform or UWP version).

GitHub offers a traditional app install (Win32 rather than UWP), and if you're more confident in your computing knowledge you can go that route – just make sure you choose the correct version for your PC. You want the 'per user' installation, of the x64 variety for a traditional AMD or Intel PC, or Arm64 installer for a laptop with an Arm chip like Qualcomm's Snapdragon X.

When the installer is downloaded, double-click it to run the setup process (which involves another download) as normal, and follow any instructions presented – although you shouldn't have to do anything much except wait. When the installation is finished, the 'welcome' introductory panel will pop up, and the PowerToys Home page, too.

You can read the welcome info, which introduces the various tools – the PowerToys themselves – complete with illustrative video clips of how they work. One thing to note here is that in the 'General' tab of the welcome window, PowerToys may flag up shortcut conflicts – click on the button to see them (if there are any). If they pertain to a PowerToys utility that you're planning on using, you may have to redefine the key combo for that PowerToy, or the Windows shortcut it's clashing with (but generally the latter can't be remapped). Click the pen icon next to the shortcut combo to redefine it.

After that, you can head to the Home panel where there's a list of all the PowerToys utilities on the right. Clicking any given ability will show you more details on it, along with extra options (Image Resizer, for example, can have custom preset image sizes), and it'll show you the shortcut key combo to use the tool (which you can change if you wish, using the pen icon as mentioned). Don't worry too much about the options, which can be complex for some tools – if you're not sure, just skip over them and leave them at their defaults.

If the slider is on for any given feature in the list of tools, that utility is enabled and sitting in the background waiting to be used – and if it's off, obviously enough, that tool is dormant and can't be used. By default, there are seven tools switched on (in PowerToys version 0.96.1 as downloaded from the Microsoft Store at the time of writing).

Each tool will use a bit of your system resources if it's operational and waiting in the background, so you definitely don't want to go switching them all on. A lot of these are for developers or power-users only – such is the nature of PowerToys – and you won't need to go near many of these features. Having them on would be a waste of RAM, CPU and other resources. However, as I said at the outset, some of these utilities are very handy for general everyday users like you and me, and that's what we're focusing on here.

So, I'd advise you to approach PowerToys like this: firstly, switch off all the tools that are on by default. Then enable the ones I've highlighted below, which are the lean and useful abilities that'll make Windows 11 (or 10) a better place for everyone (at least in my opinion). If you don't like the sound of any particular choice, though, you don't have to use it.

I'm going to make this set of core recommendations, and follow up with a final section on more niche tools that some folks may want to use, depending on their exact needs or PC setup. So, let's kick off with…

1. PowerToys Run

If you use just one tool with PowerToys, it should be Run. This is a quick launcher for Windows, but it effectively acts as an impressive replacement for Windows search.

Summon Run by pressing the Alt key + spacebar and you get a panel that you can type in, one that acts as a more performant and honed search process compared to Windows 11 (or 10). It'll bring up files and apps on your PC in a jiffy.

Note that if you want to just search for files on your PC, use a '?' ahead of the search query – so to find any files on your drives with, say, TechRadar in the name, type the following:

? TechRadar

You can just type the word, of course, without the question mark, but you will also get other non-file results (apps and so forth).

What's great about Run is that it works better than Windows default search in terms of accuracy, and it's cleaner – and faster. Indeed, for some people running older PCs where Windows might take some time to load, say, the Start menu in order to fire up an app, hitting Alt key + spacebar will see the Run panel pop up much more quickly, letting you start the app you're after in a swifter fashion.

Note that as Microsoft now advises in PowerToys, Run is being upgraded to Command Palette, another utility which may eventually take over from this tool. But for now, I'd stick with Run as a super-lean search feature, because Command Palette is still something of a work in progress, and has complexity that you may not need.

2. Peek

This one's simple: press the spacebar with a file selected and you'll get a sneak peek of a preview without having to open it.

For example, choose a photo, hit space, and a preview window showing the picture will spring up without having to wait for it to load in your photo editing app. Nifty.

3. Keyboard Manager

This lets you easily remap a key to be another key (or to trigger a keyboard combo shortcut).

Say you have a compact keyboard that has no Print Screen key (as it was removed to save space), so for taking a screenshot with Print Screen, you're required to use a function key combo that you struggle to remember and isn't very convenient. What you can do instead is remap a key you don't use to be Print Screen.

To do this, just fire up Keyboard Manager in PowerToys, go to 'Remap a key' and click the 'Select' button. Now press the key you want to redefine for screenshot duties – say the backtick (grave accent) key, above Tab, which is rarely used by many folks – then in the dropdown menu under 'Send Key/Shortcut' select Print Screen. When you press backtick now, you'll get a screenshot.

If you want to do another key remap, you can click the 'Add key remapping' button and define a second choice, and so on. To delete any key remap you don't want anymore, click the bin icon on the right.

4. Image Resizer

This is a useful addition to File Explorer's context-sensitive (right-click) menu within Windows 11's folders.

With it turned on, when you right-click on any image file you'll see the ability to 'Resize with Image Resizer' – select that and choose from the preset sizes, and voila, you have an instantly larger (or more compact) picture file. This can be quite the timesaver as it means you don't have to mess around in an image editor (or wait for it to load).

5. Light Switch

Turn on Light Switch (ahem) in PowerToys to use its Mode ability, which lets you put a timer on dark mode for Windows. Choose 'Fixed hours' to set the time you want dark mode to automatically come on, and then turn off, so you don't have to change it manually.

Alternatively, choose 'Sunset to sunrise' and specify your location to have your PC automatically turn on dark mode when evening rolls around, when it's needed (there's an offset timer to tweak this slightly, if required, depending on your personal preference).

This is a very handy ability macOS users have which sadly isn't present in Windows 11, and frankly, I don't understand why it isn't a default feature in Microsoft's OS. Still, you can get the benefit of it using PowerToys.

6. Text Extractor (for Windows 10 users)

Windows 11 users won't need this, as they have the same functionality present in the Snipping Tool, so they can use that instead (as PowerToys will inform you if you're running the newest Microsoft OS). However, if you're on Windows 10, Snipping Tool doesn't have text extraction.

It's a powerful feature that lets you grab text from anywhere on the screen (such as from within images). To use Text Extractor, press Windows key + Shift + T together and you'll get a crosshair – use that to draw a box around the text you want copied to the clipboard. You can then paste it into a document or wherever it's needed.

Other PowerToys you may want to play with

If you want to go a bit further with Microsoft's suite of utilities, aside from the highlights picked out above, you may also want to try the following PowerToys.

File Locksmith is a small addition that could be useful. Have you ever tried to delete (or move) a file in Windows and been told that you can't because it's being used by an unspecified program? The 'Unlock with File Locksmith' option in the right-click menu of the file will tell you what process is using it, so you can end that process (or potentially multiple processes), allowing you to perform the file operation.

Find My Mouse (one of a few mouse utilities) lets you find your mouse cursor should you lose it (this does happen, trust me, if you haven't ever experienced it). Turn on 'Enable Find My Mouse' and you can shake the mouse to have the cursor highlighted, or press the (left) Control key twice (that keyboard method can be redefined).

Also, on the subject of that peripheral, there's Mouse Without Borders which lets you use your mouse (and keyboard) across multiple PCs (when you link them using a security key in PowerToys). This is a bit more complex – find the instructions here – but it's a smart feature if you do need it.

One final recommendation is FancyZones, which is a tool that some Windows users swear by for multi-tasking, allowing you to build your own custom layouts to easily snap app windows into.

This goes beyond Snap Layouts and there's a huge amount of depth and customization you can tinker with in terms of how FancyZones works. This won't be for everyone by any means, and like Mouse Without Borders, this is going to be more of a niche proposition.

By all means check out some of the other tools in PowerToys yourself, but bear in mind that many are pitched at more complex use cases and really are designed for power-users.

• Windows 10 has a new update as part of Microsoft's extended support
• It reportedly breaks StartIsBack, a popular customization app
• The December patch also apparently causes issues with multiple monitors and performance slowdown in some areas

Windows 10 has a new update as part of Microsoft's extended support scheme, but there are reports of this latest release causing trouble for some users.

A notable issue that's been raised in multiple reports about the December update for Windows 10 (patch KB5071546) is that it breaks a popular customization app that revamps the Start menu.

That app is StartIsBack, and according to said reports on Reddit and X (see below), it's failing to work completely, but only on some PCs, where users are facing a blank screen instead of the desktop.

The system is apparently still functioning behind the black screen, but obviously not being able to have the desktop rendered makes using Windows 10 very tricky (though you can still access interface elements via keyboard shortcuts).

Another Reddit thread that contains a further complaint about StartIsBack highlights some other issues with this patch.

One Redditor observes that the December update meant their "wallpaper engine broke, wallpaper animations became choppy, task manager showed increased CPU spikes suddenly, [and] the UI started lagging." This was cured by reverting away from the update, and another Windows 10 user confirms they suffered a similar problem.

There could be some minor gaming issues here, too, as another Redditor claims the update causes frame rate drops in Overwatch, and a further disgruntled gamer says it broke the Xbox app.

There's another complaint on Reddit about the December update repeatedly trying to install itself, even though it's already installed.

Add to that an apparent bug with multiple monitors whereby a pair of displays hooked up to the PC stopped working after KB5071546 had been installed, with the Windows 10 desktop apparently failing to load (again). Disabling one monitor fixes the problem, we're told, as does removing the December update – and two other Redditors chime in to say they've experienced this exact same problem.

There are also scattered reports of the December update failing to install (for example, here's one on Microsoft's Tech Community hub).

Analysis: StartWasBack but the December update took it out

At the moment, we need to be cautious around these initial reports of bugs, some of which may be far from widespread. Still, it seems like there is something amiss with a few aspects of the December update for Windows 10, and certainly there's a problem with StartIsBack (and potentially other similar Windows customization tools).

This isn't uncommon, to be fair, as these kinds of apps tinker with bits of the underlying Windows interface, and when updates make changes, they can clash with the customized parts of the UI, causing Microsoft's OS to throw a hissy fit.

There is an apparent solution for the StartIsBack woes raised by one Redditor, InterestingKale3483, and that's to simply install the latest version of the app (someone else verifies that this works). It could be tricky to resolve the situation seeing as those affected are facing a blank desktop, mind, but you can follow the advice in this post to remove the existing copy of StartIsBack, so you can get to a visible, working desktop – then install the latest version of the application.

What's odd about all this is that I assumed Microsoft would only be patching security vulnerabilities at this point, so it's not clear why stuff would get broken in this way. However, there is one change highlighted by Microsoft in the documentation for KB5071546, namely a tweak (security fix) for PowerShell 5.1, which could be the cause of the problems with StartIsBack (and other interface-related glitches, perhaps).

It's worth noting that without Windows 10's December update, you are missing some defenses against fresh possible exploits out there – so bear that in mind if you're mulling over rolling back the upgrade.

• Windows 10 still powers over two in five active desktops worldwide
• Enterprises delay upgrades through paid security extensions for critical systems
• Consumers keep older PCs active for light tasks and backups

Despite the end of free support for many Windows 10 versions, usage data still shows a slow transition toward Windows 11.

Statcounter figures for November 2025 place Windows 11 at 53.7% of active Windows desktops, while Windows 10 still holds 42.7%.

The data reflects both consumer and business devices and only samples a limited number of websites, which already limits how confidently adoption trends can be interpreted.

Upgrades to Windows 11 seem to be very slow

Even with this limitation, the persistence of Windows 10 appears difficult to dismiss, and the gap between both systems is narrowing far more slowly than many hardware vendors expected.

Enterprise environments continue to show a more cautious approach to large scale operating system change.

Many businesses still running Windows 10 now rely on Extended Security Updates as a structured delay mechanism rather than a permanent refuge.

Analysts describe this approach as strategic, covering critical systems tied to legacy applications and specialized equipment without current Windows 11 driver support.

In many organizations, funding for large scale computer replacement remains unallocated across wide sections of active device fleets.

The cost of migration extends beyond licensing and hardware and includes compatibility testing, deployment planning, retraining, and interrupted workflows linked to office software transitions.

One major obstacle for Windows 11 is the absence of features that force an immediate shift in enterprise purchasing behavior.

Outside the expiration of free support, there has been little clear incentive to interrupt normal device replacement timelines.

Hardware vendors report upgrade activity well behind earlier operating system transitions.

Dell executives publicly confirmed that Windows 11 adoption trails previous upgrade cycles by double digit margins at similar points following earlier support deadlines.

In an uncertain economic climate, enterprises appear reluctant to absorb large unplanned refresh programs tied closely to operating system deadlines.

Consumer usage data further complicates overall adoption measurements.

Many buyers of Windows 11 devices continue using old Windows 10 machines as secondary computers for limited tasks.

These lingering systems continue generating traffic that feeds public usage statistics.

In parts of Europe, consumers also continue receiving security updates without direct payment, which further reduces the urgency to replace functioning hardware.

Familiar workflows and attachment to existing productivity tools reinforce this delay across non enterprise users.

The available data suggests that Windows 11 growth reflects net additions rather than true replacements.

On paper, Windows 10 appears to decline slowly, as the data shows a limited operational advantage in Windows 11.

Via The Register

• Windows 11 migration remains slow as companies continue relying on aging hardware fleets
• Dell sees flat PC sales ahead while server demand shows clear growth
• Memory prices rise sharply as manufacturers shift resources toward AI-focused components

Dell is warning the shift from Windows 10 to Windows 11 remains far behind expectations.

As part of its most recent financial results, the company revealed the current transition rate is ten to twelve points lower than the pace seen during the previous operating system phase-out.

For this reason, Dell expects flat PC sales next year, even though about 500 million PCs cannot run Windows 11 due to hardware limitations.

Slow upgrade cycle across the PC market

Many of these systems remain functional enough that organizations have delayed replacement, Dell says, a mood which seems to affect every segment, from desktops to smaller systems such as a mini PC.

Dell reported stronger results from its server and networking units as orders for AI-focused systems reached more than twelve billion dollars in the last quarter.

Revenue from servers and networking climbed thirty-seven percent year over year, with demand driven by buyers seeking denser hardware to consolidate aging fleets.

The company said increased memory and storage requirements are pushing up system costs at a time when RAM and NAND prices are high due to manufacturers prioritizing AI components.

Dell plans to rely on supply chain practices developed during the pandemic and during recent tariff changes to limit the impact of these shortages.

It told investors that its operational model allows it to adjust pricing, modify configurations, or direct buyers toward alternative products depending on supply conditions.

The company recorded $27 billion in quarterly revenue, an 11% annual increase, and said it expects revenue of $31.5 billion in the next quarter and over $111 billion in fiscal year 2026.

Dell said a large share of this growth will likely come from server replacements because many customers still operate fourteenth-generation systems.

Its current seventeenth-generation models will replace multiple aging devices, each carrying a higher selling price due to expanded memory and storage requirements.

Nutanix, one of Dell’s partners, reported year-over-year revenue growth and continued customer movement away from VMware.

Its leadership said many clients need flexibility in aligning licensing timelines with migration plans.

They also noted ongoing memory shortages could limit expansion efforts, although upcoming integrations with external storage are expected to support broader adoption.

Dell maintains it can withstand flat business laptop demand because of its strength in enterprise hardware.

Orders for AI servers reached more than $12 billion for the recent quarter, while revenue from servers and networking climbed 37%, suggesting demand for compute infrastructure remains strong even as some buyers hold onto older systems.

The situation shows businesses may be prioritizing infrastructure upgrades over operating system transitions.

Companies seem to be cautious about broad PC replacements until hardware shortages and cost pressures ease.

Via The Register

How to stay safe

• Limit personal information shared online.
• Monitor financial accounts for unusual activity.
• Use unique, complex passwords for all accounts.
• Verify URLs before logging into websites.
• Be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls claiming to be from financial institutions.
• Deploy antivirus software to protect devices from malware.
• Enable firewalls to block unauthorized access.
• Use identity theft protection to monitor personal information.
• Recognize that sophisticated phishing campaigns and AI-driven attacks still pose risks.
• Effectiveness depends on consistent implementation across devices and networks.

Windows 11 has hit some very choppy waters of late. There's never been much in the way of plain sailing for Microsoft's newest operating system, right from its inception, mind you, for various reasons. Whether that's complaints of 'it's just not that different from Windows 10' except that maybe 'it has more bugs', or 'this feature that I love is missing', or 'this part of the interface is slower than Windows 10'. Or indeed 'stop shoving ads in my face, Microsoft' (although that happens on Windows 10, too, but not quite as much).

However, Microsoft has, of late, likely lost all its mirth (one top executive in particular certainly seems to have done so), because there has been something of an explosion of unpopularity around Windows 11. This rather intense burst of hate – in some quarters, because yes, this isn't an all-pervading sentiment – is largely wrapped up in one issue: AI.

Microsoft recently revealed some big new features for Windows 11, and many key pieces revolved around AI and so-called AI agents. Indeed, the software giant went as far as saying that Windows 11 is now 'evolving into an agentic OS' and that sparked quite a rebellion. Folks complained in droves that 'people don't want this' and that Microsoft should instead be working on some of the fundamental parts of Windows 11, which are still wonky, four years after its launch.

The timing of this fresh push with AI can't be coincidental, seeing as it came a month after Windows 10 hit its end of support – earlier in November, when the first update wasn't delivered to unsupported PCs. Presumably, the idea was to show off the sparkling agentic future of Windows 11 in the hope that this would help encourage some Windows 10 users to upgrade (those who had started to worry about their security, lacking those updates). If so, the plan backfired quite spectacularly.

Potential upgraders to Windows 10 didn't end up marvelling at the tricks they might be able to eventually avail themselves of if they went ahead and upgraded to Windows 11. Yes, they were likely astonished, true enough – not by the potential of AI, but rather the fiery outpouring of complaints about how Microsoft needs to fix the basics with Windows 11 before worrying about fancy AI trimmings.

This amounted to a lot of pointing out Windows 11's various shortcomings (some of which I touched on at the outset) and awkward questions being raised. Like: why is File Explorer (the basic folders on your desktop) so slow compared to Windows 10?

Seeing the level of anger reached in some posts must have been off-putting to some onlookers still on the fence about a Windows 11 upgrade. Small wonder, then, that folks are sticking with Windows 10, as Dell underlines – or looking to Linux, and migrating away from Microsoft's ecosystem entirely, as Zorin OS contends.

Multiple factors but a simple equation in the end

Okay, so Microsoft's unfortunately-timed big push for AI has not caused these things all by itself – of course not. Obviously, there are many factors at play, and these Windows 10 holdouts and alternative OS migrators can be largely attributed to two main reasons. First, Windows 11's steep requirements rule out their old PC from having the newer OS at all. And secondly, the fact that consumers can get extended support for Windows 10 for an extra year through to October 2026 (so they can put off their upgrading or migrating decision).

However, I wouldn't underestimate how Microsoft's renewed drive with AI is weighing in with what's currently playing out here. There is a growing feeling that Microsoft is becoming too distant from the little people – you know, the ones who sit at their PCs who actually use Windows 11. Microsoft's marketing efforts are becoming more important than its relationship with the actual Windows 11 user base. Shouting about AI from the rooftops and throwing around buzzwords like 'agentic AI' might well impress shareholders and the like, but it isn't impressing the people who keep Windows alive by using it on a daily basis.

Don't get me wrong: I'm not saying this next round of AI features is inherently bad – I don't know enough to judge yet, though I have some concerns. What is bad, though, is Microsoft's marketing strategy. It needs to chill on the AI PR front and start thinking about underlining how it's listening to user feedback, and launching more initiatives to fix the fundamentals with Windows 11. Tuning performance, honing the existing interface, and fixing bugs.

Admittedly, Microsoft has just started doing exactly that in addressing a problem I mentioned before (with File Explorer performance) this week – but it needs to do more of this. Much more. And make more noise about it, too. That'd really help with turning around the more negative perceptions of Windows 11 out there, and it might just mean that the relative trickle of Windows 11 upgrades (compared to how Windows 10 benefited from Windows 7's demise) might just turn into a steadier stream of recruits.

It's a simple equation, really: [less hype about AI] + [more focus on fixing the basic problems with the OS] = [more Windows 11 users].

• Dell's COO dropped some interesting info in an earnings call
• Jeffrey Clarke noted that Windows 11 is lagging considerably behind Windows 10 for migration after the end of support deadline
• Windows 11 is off the pace by some 10% to 12%, but that isn't surprising for a couple of reasons

Dell has made it clear that Windows 11 isn't faring nearly as well as Windows 10 did when it comes to people migrating away from these respective Microsoft operating systems after their end of support deadlines.

The Register reports that Dell's Chief Operating Officer (COO), Jeffrey Clarke, commented on the lackluster progress of Windows 11 in this respect during an earnings call earlier this week.

Clarke said: "We have not completed the Windows 11 transition. In fact, if you were to look at it relative to the previous OS end of support, we are 10-12 points behind at that point with Windows 11 than we were the previous generation."

That's a fancy way of saying that compared to Windows 10 when Windows 7 went out of support – we can presumably discount Windows 8 as part of the transition to Windows 10, seeing as it never gathered much of a userbase in the first place – Windows 11 is a good distance behind following the cessation of support for Windows 10 itself (last month). In fact, Windows 11 is about 10% to 12% behind the migration levels seen to Windows 10.

Obviously there could be a number of reasons for that lack of progress relative to Windows 10, but the main stumbling block is that Windows 11 rules out a lot of older PCs with its more demanding system requirements (a topic that's been a source of frustration and controversy for some time now).

As Clarke pointed out, some 500 million PCs can’t run Windows 11, and while some of them might be upgraded to do so (with a new CPU, or a TPM module), the majority very likely won't (and in the case of laptops, it's likely impossible to upgrade anyway).

Dell's had a robust year for PC sales thus far in 2025 – as of Q3, sales were up 'mid-to-high single digits' we're told, so around 7-8% presumably – but Clarke notes that next year is going to be different.

The PC maker is forecasting that sales will be flat in 2026, while couching that as 'flourishing' – and while that may not make a lot of sense as a choice of word, the COO is viewing this through the lens of memory price hikes and related difficulties with the cost of components. (RAM and SSDs mainly, and also to some extent standalone GPUs which have video RAM).

As we've seen clearly over the past month, these supply woes and price increases are pushing up costs for PC makers currently – the rise in RAM pricing is extreme to say the least – and so it's inevitable that computers are becoming more expensive. Therefore, simply maintaining sales levels in 2026 is seen as a win, with extra incentives like the long-anticipated rise of AI PCs (Copilot+ laptops) not being enough to fight off the various component headwinds.

Obviously a slower migration to Windows 11 PCs doesn't help sales either, as folks stick with their Windows 10 machines, or perhaps choose another path entirely (like Linux, or indeed macOS).

Analysis: Some alarms but no surprises

In short, while Dell's sales figures are currently good, Windows 11 adoption isn't, and it's lagging considerably behind Windows 10 at the same stage of its post-support timeline going by Dell's stats.

That really isn't good news for Windows 11 – but it also isn't surprising. Why not? Firstly, because Windows 11's general lack of popularity – whether that's about people being prevented from upgrading because of the leap in the required hardware spec, or just that folks don't like it much – is nothing new. Windows 11 has been well off the pace of Windows 10 for relative adoption levels through its entire lifespan.

And secondly, Microsoft did something very different with Windows 10 when its End of Life rolled around last month, at least in the consumer sphere. Namely for the first time ever, extended support was offered to consumers for (more or less) free (there's a catch attached, but it's not a big deal in my opinion, and it isn't financial). With a free year of extra support available, this means Windows 10 users can get security updates through to October 2026.

And in turn that means any worries they might have about what to do with their Windows 10 computer that isn't compatible with Windows 11 can be put off to next year. In short, they've got another year to think about either buying a new Windows 11 PC to replace their existing system, or upgrading their current computer, perhaps, to support Windows 11 (or abandoning Microsoft's ecosystem entirely).

This surely must be a factor in Dell's observed migratory lag here, and given that, it may be the case that the pace of the transition to Windows 11 remains slow until October 2026 – which maybe factors into Dell's PC sales predictions for next year, too.

In theory, then, a bigger spike in migration might be witnessed this time next year. In practice, well, we shall see, and some of how this pans out may be wrapped up in how well Microsoft can push forward with its big drive with AI in Windows 11 – a direction which has proven to be quite controversial with the existing userbase of the OS.

• Windows 11's Notepad app has some new features in testing
• The app now supports quickly and easily creating tables
• There are also additional AI powers in the form of on-the-fly previews for text creation and rewriting capabilities

Microsoft is again beefing up Notepad in Windows 11, giving the increasingly not-so-lightweight editor a fresh power in terms of support for tables, and bolstered AI capabilities.

This is present in the new preview of Notepad rolling out to Windows 11 testers in the Canary and Dev Channels, as Microsoft explains in a blog post.

The big move is that tables have arrived in Notepad, with the option to create these having been added to the formatting toolbar.

They work just as you'd expect, and you can quickly insert a table into a document, choosing the size from a visual grid interface. As Microsoft notes, right-clicking on a table gives you quick edit options to add or remove rows or columns.

On the AI front, the new spin here is 'streaming results' for the Write, Rewrite, and Summarize features, which do what they say on the tin (create new text, rewrite an existing piece of copy, or provide a summary of something).

'Streaming results' means that the text the AI is writing (or rewriting) appears on-the-fly in a preview window, letting you start to review it (or change it) more swiftly.

Analysis: worries around bloat and performance

This is a useful touch for those who use the AI abilities now provided in Notepad, no doubt, although there is a slight catch – namely that streaming results for Rewrite is only possible on a Copilot+ PC (using the NPU for local on-device processing), at least for now. You'll also need to be signed into a Microsoft account to use any of this AI functionality in Notepad.

Tables might be handy for some folks, too, and the way they're implemented with that grid interface is quite similar to how they work in Microsoft Word.

However, the addition of more features to Notepad is sure to provoke the ire of those who just want this editor to be a completely minimalist affair, to keep it streamlined and working (and loading) as responsively as possible. I use Word, personally, so I want Notepad left alone as a truly lightweight alternative – its original design concept – although I realize that's not going to be true for everyone, of course.

Still, there's no shortage of people complaining that Notepad is in danger of becoming bloated – or indeed, that this is already pretty much the case, as has been made clear in the past – but it doesn't seem like Microsoft is done adding features.

Indeed, having canned WordPad – which was the halfway point between Notepad and the full Word experience – back in 2024, Microsoft appears to be slowly making Notepad more like its now-departed sibling.

• Zorin OS has racked up a million downloads in the past month
• That's ever since Zorin OS 18 emerged on the same day Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10
• It appears to suggest a lot of Windows 10 defectors heading to this Linux distro, but we must be careful with the figures here

A critically-acclaimed flavor of Linux is apparently doing very well indeed in terms of attracting defectors from Microsoft's desktop ecosystem following the end of support for Windows 10.

Tom's Hardware spotted that the developer of Zorin OS has again been boasting about the number of downloads it has accrued, following version 18 of the Linux distro drumming up 100,000 downloads in just two days after its release.

However, that's now hit a million, as we're told in a blog post: "We're thrilled to announce that Zorin OS 18 has amassed 1 million downloads in just over a month since its release, breaking all previous records."

The developer of Zorin further points out that based on its data for these downloads, 78% of them are from Windows PCs, suggesting that a good deal of these people are migrants from Microsoft's OS to Linux.

So, in around five weeks, that's a million more Zorin OS recruits – or is it? Well, no, not exactly – and I'll discuss why next – but it's still an impressive number to have amassed in just over a month since Microsoft ceased providing official support for Windows 10.

Analysis: an impressive achievement – with some caveats

While Zorin OS may have had a million downloads since version 18 of the distro was released, on exactly the same day that Microsoft dropped official support for Windows 10, obviously that doesn't reflect a million Windows users fleeing to the Linux hills.

We're told that 78% of downloads originate from Windows PCs, so that's around 780,000 folks in theory – but just because Zorin OS was pulled from the internet on a Windows PC doesn't mean that a person is migrating from Windows to Linux on that computer. A person in this boat may have multiple PCs, for example, and they might be downloading on one machine to install on another (non-Windows system). Or they might be curious about Zorin, perhaps enough to download it, but not actually bothering installing the OS (or give it a quick whirl, and give up).

You get the point anyway: there are a number of potential reasons and scenarios for a download that don't necessarily translate into a new Zorin user going forward, or necessarily mean that a person is abandoning Windows just because the Linux distro was downloaded on a Microsoft PC.

Still, it's a fair bet that this does represent a hefty chunk of defectors from Windows 10 who don't want to upgrade to Windows 11 (or can't do so due to the steeper hardware requirements therein). Especially given that one of Zorin's strengths is that it's built to be friendly for such defectors, with a suitably Windows-like desktop environment. Note that we rate the 'Lite' version of Zorin as the top Linux distro for those with an older PC, and that may well represent a good number of these OS migrants.

How many might stick with Zorin going forward is another matter, perhaps, but for now, Zorin OS is making considerable hay after the sun has set on Windows 10. And that's despite extended support being available for Microsoft's OS, allowing for a further year of usage through to October 2026, it should be noted – and all this may give Microsoft something to worry about in that light.

Certainly if this kind of activity continues, and does so more broadly away from Zorin – it'll be interesting to see if we hear from other Linux distros with similar tales of bolstered ranks in the next couple of months.

• Windows 10 has pushed out an emergency patch to fix a bug with extended support
• The glitch meant the wizard for signing up for extended updates failed
• With this problem ironed out, if you grab the out-of-band update you should be good to enrol for extended support

Microsoft has released a patch to fix a problem whereby some Windows 10 PCs couldn't sign up for extended security updates (the ESU scheme) due to a bug.

As we reported earlier this week, there was a glitch with the ESU signup that meant it simply wasn't working for some Windows 10 users, falling over with an unhelpful error message that simply stated: "Something went wrong."

Thankfully, Windows Latest spotted that Microsoft has released an emergency update to fix this issue.

This is patch KB5071959, which has been deployed out-of-band, meaning outside the normal release cadence for Windows patches.

Microsoft says of the update: "This update addresses an issue in the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Update (ESU) enrollment process, where the enrollment wizard may fail during enrollment. After applying this update, consumer devices should be able to successfully enroll in ESU using the ESU wizard."

Note that nobody who's in the ESU will get this patch; it's only for those who haven't been able to sign up for extended updates due to the aforementioned bug and error message.

Analysis: extended woes have come to an end

It's good to see Microsoft is on the case here, and just in time, as the first security update for Windows 10 PCs enrolled for extended support just emerged yesterday (November 11). Indeed, I just got this patch – which is KB5068781 – on my Windows 10 PC, which is in the ESU scheme, this morning (it took a surprisingly long time to install, considering it's just a barebones set of security fixes – or maybe there's a bit more to this first delivery).

Windows Latest indicates that "all ESU-related issues" are patched with this emergency update, but as we saw earlier this week, aside from the bug, there are also regional barriers preventing signup for extended updates in some cases. I'm not sure if all those will have been resolved, but granted, it makes sense that they should be – given that the first update for the ESU is now out as noted.

Whether or not the whole world now has access to the ESU (which should be the case), you shouldn't be seeing the unhelpful "Something went wrong" error message after applying this emergency patch.

That's going to save a good deal of frustration, no doubt, and if you've been one of those annoyed by these ESU signup failures, head to Windows Update now. Run a check for updates and you should see KB5071959, and after you've installed that you should be good to go for a successful enrolment to the ESU – and then you can grab the November security update for Windows 10.

Extended support means you'll be covered for security updates through to October 2026, but after that you'll be facing the same dilemma that you've put off for a year – upgrade to Windows 11 (if possible), or look at an alternative OS such as a Windows-like flavor of Linux.

• Windows 10's extended updates program isn't working for some
• In some cases, this is due to regional limitations for the ESU rollout
• In others, a glitch may be misidentifying Windows 10 PCs and preventing them from signing up for extended updates without explaining why

Some people who want to stick with Windows 10, avoiding Windows 11 – or perhaps are unable to upgrade due to their PC specs – are apparently finding that they can't access Microsoft's offer of extended support for the older OS.

Windows Latest reports that Windows 10's Extended Security Updates (ESU) scheme isn't working for some, and this may be due to regional issues or a bug that derails the sign-up process.

A reader in the Netherlands reached out to Windows Latest, complaining that they couldn't sign up for the ESU. Even though it was offered on their PC, they received a message saying, "Enrollment for Windows 10 Extended Security Updates is temporarily unavailable in your region."

There was no explanation offered beyond that, or indeed any indication of when the ESU might be made available.

Microsoft confirmed to Windows Latest that the rollout of the ESU is staggered and may not be showing up for everyone yet, particularly those in Europe.

Microsoft said, "The enrollment experience for the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program may vary by region based on local market factors."

The software giant also clarified that the ESU rollout has begun in the EEA (European Economic Area) as of October 15 – the day after support for Windows 10 was ended officially – so some folks in Europe would have been getting it straight away. Clearly not everyone, though.

As for the bug reportedly preventing ESU sign-ups for some, which can affect anyone, no matter where they live around the world, this produces an unhelpful error message that says, "Something went wrong."

Anyone who's used Windows for some time will likely have encountered that old chestnut at some point, and it roughly translates to: 'this thing crashed and we've no idea what caused it.'

The affected Windows 10 user is then told to close the ESU window and try again, but doing so just results in the same error.

Windows Latest carried out some investigative work on this matter, coming to the conclusion that the error might relate to how Windows 10 classifies the host PC.

The long and short of the theory is that Windows 10 produces this error for work PCs (enterprise or education systems), and if the OS wrongly detects the host PC as a work machine, rather than a consumer computer, it'll refuse the ESU in this manner.

Business sign-ups are a separate case, and so it makes sense that you wouldn't be able to enrol for the consumer ESU if Windows 10 somehow thinks you've got an enterprise (or education) PC.

Although why there's no indication given to explain this – some kind of a message saying that business organizations can't sign up for the consumer ESU, so you know why the error is being produced – isn't clear. It could be an oversight by Microsoft, and it wouldn't be the first time that's happened, but at any rate, take this conclusion with some seasoning for now. It does seem plausible enough to me, and others have theorized this on Reddit, too.

How to get around these stumbling blocks – or should you just wait it out?

Regarding the regional limitations raised here, it isn't unusual for a Windows feature to have a phased rollout, but this will be frustrating for some Europeans (and maybe others across the globe) who still can't grab the ESU.

Microsoft hints that this might also pertain to Windows 10 PCs not having the latest monthly update installed (from October), which you need for the ESU – but it seems unlikely those trying to sign up wouldn't have grabbed that security update by now. Indeed, on Windows 10 Home, it should have been force-installed at this point. Still, if you haven't applied the latest update, definitely do that.

Those who've run into the 'something went wrong' error will doubtless be even more frustrated. As noted, this could be due to the misidentification of the PC as a business machine, so Windows Latest suggests that it might affect those who've previously linked their Windows 10 installation to a work (or school) account. If that is the case for you, it might be worth trying to delete that old account (and any related folders on the system drive – though be careful what you're doing here).

If that doesn't work, Windows Latest suggests performing an in-place upgrade for Windows 10 using the Media Creation Tool to fix errors with the ESU, but again, proceed at your own risk (and back up everything before you try that).

The other option is to simply wait for Microsoft to iron out any misidentified PC difficulties, and of course, holding on should also resolve any regional rollout-related stumbling blocks (the ESU will eventually arrive everywhere, and it shouldn't be much longer for anyone still left without it).

The downside of waiting is that the first security update provided by the ESU arrives tomorrow, so from then on, your Windows 10 PC will be officially out of date for support. That's not a pleasant thought, but the reality is that you're not likely to be in any immediate danger – at least for a short time, anyway, if you're very careful about what you're doing online. But as I've discussed elsewhere in detail already, I'd very much err on the side of not taking any risks if at all possible.

A final trick you might want to try that I've seen mentioned on Reddit is to click on the link highlighted here in Microsoft's Windows end-of-support portal, which will open system settings and should fire up the ESU enrolment. Going this route, rather than via Windows Update, has cured problems with the sign-up process for a number of folks, but again, make sure you are running the latest October patch for Windows 10 before you do this.

You shouldn't have to try fudges and keep your fingers crossed to sign up for extended updates, of course, so none of this is ideal – but here we are. These issues are hopefully affecting just a minority, although there are a number of reports on Reddit complaining about not being able to get the ESU past the October 14 End of Life deadline for Windows 10.

Some people encountering these kinds of troubles with maintaining Windows 10 support may even be annoyed enough to make the move to Windows 11, if they've been procrastinating on that (assuming their PC meets the system requirements). It's certainly a possibility if they have to wait much longer for the ability to benefit from the ESU, because, as already noted, you don't want to stay on Windows 10 without up-to-date security patches for long, especially if you're not confident about how to stay safe when you're online and steer clear of common scams.

Another glitch in Windows 10's ESU to be mindful of is that some people who have signed up successfully are being wrongly informed that they're not supported.

• Windows 10's October patch carried a confusing bug
• Microsoft has now confirmed that some people who had extended support were told they weren't supported
• This wasn't the case, and it worried some of those who saw the warning

Microsoft has admitted that a bug meant some Windows 10 users were wrongly informed that their PC is out of support after a patch for the OS was pushed out last month.

Tom's Hardware reports that Microsoft confirmed the issue, which is mainly affecting business users, but also some consumers, namely those running Windows 10 Pro.

The problem was introduced in the final October update for Windows 10 – or at least it was the final upgrade for those who haven't signed up for the extended support program.

However, the bug meant that even those on Windows 10 Pro who'd signed up for extended updates through to October 2026 were being told their system was now out of support. This was also happening to enterprise and education users on Windows 10, and those running Windows 10 LTSC, which is a special version of the desktop OS that offers long-term servicing for businesses.

Microsoft said in a statement: "The message, 'Your version of Windows has reached the end of support', might incorrectly display in the Windows Update Settings page."

However, there's already been a fix piped through which should remove the errant message, so you shouldn't be seeing it any longer.

If you are still getting this warning, then the problem could be that you haven't connected to the internet since downloading the patch with the bug – you'll also need to reboot your PC after the fix is implemented on your system.

The bug was highlighted on Reddit last month, not long after the October patch was deployed, but Microsoft has only just confirmed the issue. It was seemingly fixed pretty swiftly, at least for enterprise customers going by the feedback provided on Reddit.

Analysis: confused? Plenty of people were…

This has caused some confusion among both enterprise users and consumers alike. If you're running Windows 10 Pro, and you signed up for Extended Security Updates (ESU) last month, to receive a message informing you that your system is no longer supported might make you worry that somehow your PC has been dropped out of the ESU scheme (or the sign-up process failed).

Rest assured this isn't the case, and the IT admins dealing with fleets of PCs which were also producing this message about being unsupported can also breathe a bit easier with this official confirmation from Microsoft that this was a mistake.

That said, some folks still subscribe to the belief that it was some kind of scare tactic from Microsoft, while noting that Windows 10 LTSC versions (from both 2019 and 2021) were actually listed as out of support in Microsoft's official end of service statement previously – but they've now been removed from that list (the correction of another mistake, perhaps).

Anyway, such controversies aside, it's clear enough that Microsoft intends to maintain support as promised, meaning another year of updates for consumers or businesses on the ESU. (And the LTSC IoT Enterprise take on Windows 10 – a very limited installation, it should be noted – actually has support all the way through to 2032, but that's for businesses only, of course).

• Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 and Windows 10 PCs may face a new BitLocker bug
• Users may be stuck in BitLocker recovery mode if they don't know their encryption key
• Windows 11 25H2, 24H2, and Windows 10 22H2 users are affected, and particularly Intel-based systems

It's barely been a week since Microsoft confirmed that it fixed a long-standing bug affecting Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems, which would restart PCs despite the user choosing to 'update and shutdown', and there's now another bug to take its place.

As reported by Windows Latest, Microsoft confirms that the October security updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11 may cause PCs to boot into BitLocker recovery mode. If that sounds familiar, that's because this issue has returned after occurring in a prior May 2025 update (and before that in the past, too).

The affected OS versions are Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2, along with Windows 10 22H2. If you're running one of those, you might want to ensure you take note of your BitLocker encryption key. That's because this bug requires you to input that key to boot back into Windows - so if you don't have it, you could be locked out of your system and left in a very frustrating situation.

Microsoft says this bug mostly affects Intel-based devices that support 'Modern Standby' (which allows a device in a low-power sleep mode to stay connected to the network).

However, even if you're using other hardware, I'd say it's still better to remain cautious and take the necessary steps to avoid being locked out of your system – namely ensuring you have that encryption key to hand. You may even decide you want to disable BitLocker entirely, given how many recurring problems Microsoft seems to have had with the security feature.

Unlike a previous BitLocker issue, Microsoft says this bug shouldn't corrupt your data. Even so, the reappearance of the recovery screen bug is a prime example of just how incessant and frustrating Windows bugs have been for the past few years.

Analysis: Microsoft is showing exactly why I can't stand Windows 11

It might seem like the increasing levels of frustration with Windows 11 expressed by myself (and others online) is exaggerated sometimes, but this BitLocker issue is just one of the many annoying issues that plague the user experience.

I use Windows 11 primarily for work and gaming (not on my handheld), and run into issues in both cases. Whether it's too many background processes running and negatively impacting game performance, or the Bluetooth audio menu locking up, there are just too many problems floating around in Microsoft's operating system.

This is exactly why SteamOS seems a much better fit for me, as we've seen that game performance is better than what Windows 11 provides in many circumstances - certainly for handhelds. And Valve's OS functions perfectly fine in desktop mode after learning a few basics in terms of file directories (although SteamOS isn't without drawbacks, of course - online game compatibility issues, for one thing).

With a constant stream of bugs, Microsoft is only making matters worse for itself, inadvertently pushing users away from Windows 11. However, I remain hopeful that the company can turn things around from hereon out.

• Windows 10 is still installed on millions of devices, Statcounter finds
• Windows 7 dropped in popularity far more quickly
• One in five said they’ll continue to use Windows 10

We’re closing in on a whole month after the official Windows 10 end of life, but the effects have apparently been far from what Microsoft might have desired in the runup to ended support.

In October 2025, the month of Windows 10 EOS, it was still installed on 41.7% of Windows machines (per Statcounter analysis), only slightly behind Windows 11 at 55.2%.

A broader look over the course of the past five years shows Windows 11 adoption climbing steadily, but Windows 10 remained users’ first choice right up until July 2025, when the flagship OS finally overtook its predecessor.

Will Windows 10 finally go to bed?

That same five-year period in Statcounter analysis allows us to see that Windows 7’s market share was 24.9% in its final supported month, suggesting users were far happier then to upgrade than they were at the point of Windows 10 EOS.

Taking a look at previous trends, it took around three years for Windows 7 to finally level off at minimal market share after support was cut, but Microsoft may have to prepare for it to take even long for the same to happen to Windows 10.

That’s because the popular OS has been somewhat of an anomaly over the long term, climbing pretty quickly to prime position in late 2017 and passing Windows 7 in popularity around two years before it was axed.

Over the years, we’ve seen that Windows 10 has been favored for its stability and familiarity, but also its enterprise readiness. On the flip side, Windows 11 presented consumers and enterprises alike with upgrade barriers, particularly around hardware requirements.

In the runup to Windows 10’s end of support, Omdia Research Director Ishan Dutt noted, “a significant portion of the global Windows installed base remains either on Windows 10 or on a PC that is five or more years old.”

Nearly one-fifth (18%) of channel partners said they’d continue to use Windows 10 after support ends.

Microsoft had nothing to add in relation to Windows 11 adoption and customers holding on to Windows 10.

• Tools for migrating to Windows 11 are being spoofed, experts warned
• The fake Flyoobe software could be hiding dangerous malware
• Developers warn to only download directly from the official GitHub release

As everyone knows by now, Windows 10 has reached its end-of-life (EOL), which can be a fairly stressful process for IT teams managing the move, or for everyday users baffled by the sudden change in appearance.

A number of software tools have emerged promising to ease the transition - or help you secure your software if you are choosing not to migrate just yet - but be cautious when using these, as they might not be all they seem.

One of these is Flyoobe, successor to Flyby11 - a legitimate tool that can assist by enabling safe upgrades to Windows 11 on unsupported hardware - bypassing the system requirements to enable a smooth setup. However its developer has now warned a malicious copy of the software might be circulating, catching out unsuspecting users.

Skip the fluff, remove the junk

In a security alert on GitHub, developers explain that the copy may contain malware or a tweaked version of the software - so make sure you only download directly from GitHub release, as this copy could be dangerous.

The tool aims to deliver a ‘complete and customizable Out-Of-Box Experience’ making Windows 11 more accessible for those without the most up to date hardware. Compatibility checks usually complicate the migration process with unsupported systems, so to bypass these, Flyoobe needs system-level access.

Systems-level access is a gold mine for attackers, as they can use it as a foothold to gain access to networks or other devices, building backdoors to maintain access - so fake software with these permissions is even more dangerous than usual.

Downloading anything from an unverified source is a huge risk. Recent research discovered thousands of web pages abused by hackers to spread malware - and that's just from one campaign.

If you’ve missed the deadline but still need to safely and smoothly migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11, we’ve outlined a few tricks to help you on your way.

Via: Tom’s Hardware

• Some NHS devices are incompatible with Windows 11
• Manufacturers insist they need to be replaced at great cost
• Windows 10 reached end of life, security updates will no longer be patched

Hospitals in the NHS are failing to complete their full upgrade to Windows 11 due to a small number of suppliers which are still yet to make their devices compatible with the new operating system.

This flaw leaves the devices exposed if any vulnerabilities do arise, as Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 back in October 2025 - meaning it will no longer be patching security flaws for anyone, no matter how crucial the software.

Reports from Digital Health outline an example at the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, where around 98% of the trust’s Windows estate has been updated thanks to ‘amazing work’ by tech teams, but the remaining 2% of the devices are not compatible with the new OS.

Small percentage, big exposure

This may not seem like a large number, but hospitals are an incredibly attractive target for cybercriminals since they have many systems that can be held hostage due to the urgency of the operation - making ransom payments potentially more likely.

Director of Health Informatics at the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, James Rawlinson explains that some equipment only three years old now needs to be entirely replaced due to the incompatibility, according to the manufacturer.

Manufacturers use the excuse of having to go through strict regulations in order for their software to interact with the other medical devices - but it’s at extra cost to the already strained health service.

“We want them to do that, but it still leaves a nasty taste in your mouth when you’ve spent £34,000 on a piece of equipment and then three years later, you’re going to spend it all again because they themselves just won’t upgrade to support Windows 11,” Rawlinson told Digital Health.

Any chance of disruption can have a serious impact on the hospital too, with one inquiry tragically finding that ransomware repercussions contributed to a patient death - outlining the extreme importance of ensuring every device is up to date.

“Historically these medical equipment suppliers have provided end-to-end support for their software and equipment, but then suddenly say ‘It’s nothing to do with us, it’s up to your local IT to look after it, but don’t worry, you can buy extended support from Microsoft’. It just stinks,” Rawlinson adds.

• AMD dropped the mention of Windows 10 being supported in its latest driver
• This led some to jump to the conclusion that the older OS is no longer supported with Radeon GPUs
• AMD has clarified that this isn't the case, and support is still in place for Windows 10

If you were worried that AMD suddenly isn't supporting Windows 10 with its graphics drivers, as some reports have suggested, there's no need to fret – Team Red has clarified that this isn't the case.

Of course, what did happen earlier this month was that Windows 10 reached the end of support, and that's tied up in this whole affair.

As Windows Latest noticed, in AMD's most recent GPU driver (Adrenalin v25.10.2) the release notes only list Windows 11 as supported under compatible operating systems. Windows 10 is notably missing, leading gamers with AMD graphics cards – and some tech sites – to worry that maybe Team Red had dropped support for the older Microsoft operating system.

That isn't the case, as an AMD spokesperson explained, telling Windows Latest: "To clarify, the new driver doesn't claim Windows 10 support because Windows 10 is in the End of Life stage as per Microsoft.

"The AMD Software Adrenalin package, although it does not specifically call out Windows 10 support, supports Windows 10. Windows 10 support will continue to be available in AMD Software Adrenalin Edition via the Windows 11 installer."

In short, the Adrenalin graphics driver is still good for Windows 10 gamers, even if it isn't labelled as such.

Analysis: don't worry yet – but the driver axe is coming for Windows 10 eventually

Having support for an OS is important, of course, because graphics driver releases apply important bug fixes, and add new features as well as optimizations for freshly released games. For example, this latest Adrenalin driver which emerged a couple of days ago brought in support for Battlefield 6.

If a driver isn't tested on Windows 10 systems, problems with the older operating system might be missed by AMD, and gamers could run into trouble as a result. But rest assured that AMD is still developing its Radeon drivers with Windows 10 in mind as well as Windows 11.

Why did AMD remove the mention of Windows 10 in its release notes then? Probably because it feels gamers shouldn't be sticking on the older OS without it being supported (i.e., supplied with regular security updates from Microsoft), and so Team Red doesn't want to officially 'encourage' that in any way.

That said, Windows 10 is different because consumers can get extended support – for an extra year – for the first time ever, so a lot more people will be staying on the OS at least until October 2026. Given that, I think it would make sense for AMD to continue to officially list support for another year, but Team Red is clearly sticking to the letter of the law here in terms of the End of Life date for Windows 10.

While there's no need to worry yet, AMD will eventually put Windows 10 on ice with its graphics drivers. If we go back to look at Windows 7, it was put on legacy support by AMD – with only critical security fixes applied, and nothing else, meaning perhaps the odd patch should a truly glaring vulnerability manifest – a year and a half after Microsoft ceased support for Windows 7 with monthly updates.

So, perhaps at some point approaching the middle of 2027, Windows 10 will meet the same fate. For now, though, you're all good with AMD GPU drivers on Windows 10.

It's also worth noting that even when AMD graphics cards aren't supported in Windows 10, it isn't like they'll suddenly stop working – you're just more likely to hit problems and will remain unpatched against any security flaws (save for the aforementioned ones that might be severe enough for Team Red to decide to act with a one-off patch).

• PC shipments are up 8% in Q3 2025, helped by Windows 10's End of Life
• Apple's Macs have done particularly well with a 15% gain year-on-year
• Windows PC makers have also witnessed some robust increases, with one notable exception

It was always going to be the case that Windows 10 reaching its official end of support would drive people in other directions than where Microsoft wants them to go, i.e., Windows 11 – and that means not just Linux (which is often pushed as an alternative), but macOS.

MacRumors noticed that Apple's Macs have picked up a lot of sales due to Windows 10's End of Life, as shown by Counterpoint's latest figures.

The analytics firm's statistics for global PC shipments show a strong rise of 8.1% in Q3 2025 compared to the same quarter last year, which has been partly driven by the end of Windows 10 coming to pass (as well as "strategic inventory adjustments" due to US tariffs).

Apple has been one of the major beneficiaries of this, with Mac shipments up 14.9%, helped by some smart new MacBook models brought in this year, and businesses buying new laptops due to Windows 10 PCs being obsoleted.

Analysis: Windows 11 sales are no slouch either – with one major exception

Lest you think everyone is jumping ship to get on board with Apple Macs, other PC vendors have done well here too. Lenovo fared best, in fact, with a 17% gain in Q3 year-on-year, edging out Apple's 15% boost, which was just ahead of Asus on 14%. HP also gained 10%, so all the big PC makers who push Windows 11 machines have done well in this last quarter, too – with one notable exception.

Dell struggled badly, with its PC shipments actually dropping by almost a full percentage point year on year, in marked contrast to all the other big players.

That's an unusually strong rise for Apple, and Tim Cook will doubtless be pleased to see it, particularly given that Mac sales hit troubled waters last year, and indeed in Q3 of 2024 we saw Apple lose as much as it gained here. Apple has put all that in the rearview mirror, though, as Mac sales have only gone from strength to strength this year, culminating in this most recent uptick.

It's the proponents of Linux who've really tried to capitalize on persuading Windows 10 defectors – those with older PCs that can't run Windows 11 due to the steeper system requirements – so it's interesting to see how much migration there has been towards Macs. There are also suggestions that Linux – or certain distros – are making hay while the Windows 10 End of Life sun sets, but thus far, these are limited hints.

The big picture being pushed by the analyst firm here, however, is the shift to AI PCs, which isn't expected to fully kick off until 2027, Counterpoint believes – but what we're seeing here are the early stages of businesses buying laptops capable of accelerating local AI tasks (on-device) via an NPU, which include Apple's newer MacBooks and Copilot+ PCs running Windows 11.

Counterpoint highlights the incoming Intel Panther Lake processors, and also Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Elite, as powerful mobile CPUs that'll help push Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs in these relatively early days of the AI 'revolution'.

Notably, though, we've already caught a leak showing how Apple's new M5 chip can outgun even the 'Extreme' version of the Snapdragon X2 Elite, at least in certain scenarios – which is promising for the MacBooks of the future. Apple is doing well when it comes to making each new generation of M series silicon more performant.

• Now Windows 10 has hit end-of-life, Microsoft has big plans for Windows 11
• Microsoft is committing to making the its OS 'AI-native'
• This introduces Copilot Voice, Copilot Action, and Copilot Vision

Now Windows 10 has reached its end-of-life, Microsoft has released more information on its future plans surrounding Windows 11, primarily concerning its commitment to turning the operating system ‘AI-native’.

With Microsoft’s Copilot AI ‘companion’, the organization wants to push users towards a fully integrated agentic AI experience - with AI no longer just being an ‘add on’ tool to the OS, but rather a core part of Windows.

“Windows leads the AI-native shift,” said Stefan Kinnestrand, Vice President at Microsoft. “Windows is evolving into an AI-native platform: secure, scalable, and built for agentic work,” he noted.

The computer you can talk to

Copilot+ PCs will be on the hardware side of this commitment, with AI features on the software side, as Microsoft hints new “breakthrough performance and native AI experiences” are set to be arriving soon for Windows 11 users, but only those who already own a Copilot+ PC at first.

“Windows is evolving to more effectively empower organizations to innovate, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape driven by AI ” Kinnestrand added.

“With the latest AI features, organizations gain an enterprise-grade foundation where AI powered capabilities operate safely and effectively, unlocking new levels of productivity and business agility.”

But what will this mean for users? Well, it means Copilot will be weaved into PCs with Windows 11, rather than pushing customers to purchase specific Copilot Plus PCs.

Microsoft wants its customers to communicate and work with their PC - out loud.

Vision, Voice, and Action

Workers will also soon get access to new Copilot Voice, Vision, and Action features. Copilot Voice enables voice commands to search, automate tasks, and ‘make daily work more intuitive and hands-free’ - whilst Copilot Vision allows the AI access to your screen in real-time and offers analysis and provides instructions on using apps or completing tasks - both ‘opt-in permissions’.

Copilot Action will let Copilot agents perform tasks on the users behalf. Examples Microsoft have given are; ‘opening apps, changing settings, or starting workflows—based on context and intent’ - not entirely ground breaking.

Despite all these features, Windows 11 and AI are ‘designed to make technology feel invisible, so employees can focus on what matters’ Kinnestrand argues.

The Microsoft ecosystem with fully integrated technology is aimed at helping ‘reduce complexity, unlock cross-platform intelligence, and deliver seamless experiences across teams and tools.’

Finally, there's 'Click to Do', a productivity tool which Microsoft says will empower users to 'act instantly, such as scheduling meetings or launching tasks, directly from their workspace,' with workflows streamlined through a single click.

• Microsoft's Windows Recovery Environment has a major bug after the latest update for Windows 11 25H2
• USB mice and keyboards are not working in Windows Recovery mode
• This means people hit by serious issues preventing their PC from booting can't resolve them in the Recovery mode

Windows 10 finally met its official end on October 14 last week, after a decade of existence, with users pushed to upgrade to Windows 11 (or sign up for extended support). However, a bug in the most recent update for Windows 11's latest version, 25H2, makes that upgrade path a little risky.

As reported by Tom's Hardware, the KB5066835 update for Windows 11 25H2 has broken the Windows Recovery Environment (WRE). The glitch means that USB mice and keyboards won't work in the WRE, which is seriously bad news.

The Windows Recovery Environment is where you'll end up if your PC fails to boot, and it's designed to allow you to troubleshoot the problem that caused this failure. However, if you can't use your mouse or keyboard in the WRE, that obviously makes it impossible to recover the PC.

Microsoft has commented on the issue and has said that it's working on a fix to be deployed in the coming days, but there is currently no ETA on exactly when that will be.

This update for Windows 11 25H2 arrived on the same date as Windows 10's End of Life, which is bad timing for those who decided to upgrade, and didn't stick with Windows 10 via its Extended Security Updates (ESU) scheme.

People who haven't yet made the decision on whether or not to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 probably won't feel any more enthusiastic about that option given the revelation of this potentially system-breaking bug.

This comes in addition to the litany of bugs that have plagued Windows 11 systems, including the recent glitch that's seemingly destroying SSDs. All this may leave people considering other alternatives to Windows 11 such as the unofficial Tiny11 - or maybe even moving to Linux.

Analysis: this is exactly why I consistently pause Windows 11 updates

Windows 11 has been a troublesome OS on my main PC, with frequent bugs and unexplained moments of freezing. This new glitch is another reason why I constantly avoid installing new updates for as long as possible, despite having them forced upon me (eventually) during system restarts or shutdowns. (You can't dodge an update for long on Windows 11 Home).

Windows Recovery getting effectively put out of action is incredibly frustrating, as it's there to save your OS when needed. It's not just meant for system repairs either, as it can also be used to uninstall Windows 11 updates, which I was forced to do back when Nvidia's GeForce driver caused a black screen on startup.

While it's impossible for operating systems not to have issues of some kind over time, problems have been happening too frequently with Windows 11, including some major bugs that bring functionality to a halt.

If it wasn't for games like Battlefield 6 and others using anti-cheat tools not working on Valve's SteamOS, I would've made the switch a long time ago. Let's just hope that Microsoft can get this resolved as soon as possible.

You might also like...

• Microsoft isn't just abandoning Windows 10 - this version of Windows 11 is heading for the scrapheap too
• How to sign up for free extended updates in Windows 10 to stay safe until October 2026
• Microsoft is 'removing known mechanisms for creating a local account' from Windows 11 setup - get ready to use a Microsoft account

• Zorin OS, a Linux distro, has boasted about a flood of new recruits
• In two days after Windows 10 support ended, Zorin OS 18 saw 100,000 downloads
• Almost three-quarters of those were from Windows PCs, we're told

Some of the best Linux distros have been looking to capitalize on the end of support for Windows 10 with various initiatives or projects, and apparently one of them – Zorin OS – is going great guns following the End of Life of Microsoft's OS last week.

Neowin reports that the latest version of Zorin OS was launched on the same day that Windows 10 shuffled off its mortal codebase – October 14 – pitched as a "modern alternative that makes your computer feel brand new".

The developer of the Linux distro informed us on X that in just two days, Zorin OS 18 notched up 100,000 downloads, almost three-quarters of which (72%) were made on Windows systems, indicating that these were Windows 10 users migrating to the Linux OS.

Zorin Group also posted about a city in France, Échirolles, which has shifted some of the Windows 10 PCs in its town hall to free and open-source software which includes Zorin OS.

Analysis: fighting big tech on the desktop

Zorin Group bills this as a victory for alternative desktop platforms over the "incumbent operating systems from Big Tech", meaning Windows. However, when you look into the latter Linux transition in France, in actual fact only 10% of the town hall's PCs are running Zorin OS (or another distro), and much of the movement has been away from Microsoft's Office apps (to LibreOffice) rather than Windows.

At any rate, the official end of Windows 10 is certainly prompting some people and organizations to think about Linux as a genuine alternative, and a boost of something like 70,000 Windows 10 users in a couple of days is quite impressive to see for a relatively minor player in the desktop OS world like Zorin.

If you want to know more about Zorin, it's one of the better Linux choices for those coming from Microsoft's operating system, seeing as it's quite similar in design to Windows 11, as we explore in more detail in our hands-on Zorin 17 review. You might also want to consider some of the other recommendations we have for the best Windows-like Linux distros.

While switching to Linux could be a good alternative, particularly for users of older PCs that can't get near the system requirements for Windows 11, there are compromises involved in such a move. You may run into issues with hardware drivers, or software compatibility, and games could be especially problematic – for starters, lots of online PC games won't work due to their anti-cheat systems.

It's also worth noting that you don't have to abandon Windows 10 just yet – there's another choice in terms of taking up Microsoft's offer of extended support for an extra year of security updates. Yes, you are just putting off the decision of where to go next with your Windows 10 PC to next year, but if you need some breathing room the option is there (with a small catch, albeit that caveat doesn't apply to everyone).

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• I was about to upgrade to Windows 11, but I've decided to stick with Windows 10 – here's why
• Is using Windows 10 still safe after the End of Life deadline? All your questions answered
• Microsoft exec's vision of Windows 12 and beyond could terrify some of you

It’s been common knowledge in computing that Windows 10 reached the end of its supported life on October 14 2025.

But while that’s true for most incarnations of the operating system, there’s a version called Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 that will continue receiving security and stability updates all the way until January 2032.

That’s certainly going to come as a surprise to people who have spent the past few years seeing headlines about October 2025 – but what is the LTSC version, what does IoT mean and why does this particular variant get a reprieve?

If you’re puzzled by the existence of this version of Windows, wondering what the name means and curious to see if you can use it on your devices, read on – we’ll answer all your questions.

What does IoT Enterprise actually mean?

It’ll come as no surprise that operating systems like Windows 10 are complex bits of software that are in use across all kinds of devices – and so, consequently, there are many different versions of the OS, too.

The list of Windows 10 variants includes familiar options like Windows 10 Home and Pro alongside Enterprise and Education alternatives, each with features designed to work particularly well in those specialist environments.

Explore the list of Windows 10 versions, though, and you’ll find something called Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.

IoT stands for “Internet of Things,” which is the broad term assigned to computers found inside all sorts of specialist devices. They can range from smart fridges and watches to retail point-of-sale terminals and security devices.

Internet of Things devices generally have specific use cases, locked-down software installations and operating systems, and particular methods of interaction – in contrast to the general-purpose PCs and laptops that we all use with keyboards, mice, and accessible software.

In Microsoft’s case, Windows 10 IoT is the version of the OS that runs in embedded systems of all shapes and sizes, like self-service kiosks, ATMs, robots, medical devices, and thousands of other use cases. It’s licensed for fixed-purpose devices and is generally not available on consumer devices.

Microsoft produces several different versions of Windows 10 IoT – Enterprise is the full-featured version, and there are Core, Server and Mobile variants all designed to function in varying kinds of small, embedded computers. Millions of devices around the world use the Windows 10 IoT operating system, but bear in mind that Core and Mobile have already been retired.

When compared to more traditional versions of Windows, the IoT variants have locked-down designs that receive fewer updates. This is because mission-critical devices, which are more challenging to access, service, and manage, require long-term security and stability.

Windows 10 IoT operating systems have stricter security protocols than most versions of Windows. They use limited and specific control methods and remote management, and they can usually boot into a desktop or directly into a particular app, like a shopping system for use in self-service kiosks.

What about LTSC?

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is the most common version of the Internet of Things operating system, and that LTSC suffix is the next part of the name that’s crucial to understand.

LTSC stands for “Long Term Servicing Channel” and, as the name suggests, it signifies versions of Windows 10 that are supported for far longer than conventional variants for devices where features and functionality must remain unchanged.

A case in point: support for the standard versions of Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise and Education expired on October 14 2025 – alongside the conventional version of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.

Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC – the non-IoT version - runs out of support on January 12 2027. But if you’re running Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC? Then you’ll get extended support until January 13 2032.

For many people who run Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, the LTSC makes plenty of sense. The long-term support version only includes quality, security and stability updates rather than new feature updates because delivering a stable, consistent version of the operating system is key.

You miss out on feature updates, which are only included within mainstream support dates, and access to the Microsoft Store. Those options are probably not needed by people who require a long-term version of the operating system for mission-critical devices anyway.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC’s long, unchanging configuration makes life easier when it comes to compliance, validation and budgeting. It makes management and maintenance predictable, reduces total cost of ownership, and works in locations where internet access can be difficult.

In short, if you’ve got fixed-purpose, embedded devices that need to run consistently for years without change, then Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is the operating system for you.

How can you get Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC?

You might think that any devices running Windows 10 IoT Enterprise automatically switch over to the LTSC version, but that’s not the case.

Moving to the LTSC version requires a new license, whether that’s done individually or by using a volume licensing system. That’s because Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC is a distinct edition of Windows that’s different from the non-LTSC version – you can’t just upgrade in place.

You’ll need to go through your device’s OEM manufacturer or liaise with your organization’s IT department to ensure that you’ve switched over to the LTSC edition if you need to keep running until 2032.

It makes sense that you’ll need to jump through some licensing hoops when you think about the complexity and long-term lifespan of the operating system.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise was released way back in 2015 and was slated to run out of support on October 14 2025 – the same date as most other versions of Windows.

But on November 16 2021, Microsoft released the 21H2 update to Windows 10. This reduced the LTSC deadline for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC – the long-term support option for conventional desktops and laptops – while introducing the new January 2032 support date for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC.

If you’re running one of the more conventional versions of Windows 10, like Home or Pro, you can also move to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, but it’s a complicated process that we don’t recommend unless you’re an experienced user.

Can I use Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC to skip the October 2025 deadline?

We wouldn’t recommend it. While it’s certainly true that Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC will enjoy extended security and stability updates all the way until 2032, it’s a specialist version of the operating system designed for particular situations and devices.

If you run an LTSC version of the operating system you may encounter compatibility and support issues with apps and games, and you won’t be able to access most apps from the Microsoft Store. Eventually you may also experience problems with web apps, tools and protocols not working correctly in browser-based software.

Eventually, new hardware may not work with LTSC versions of the operating system, and you won’t get updates that add new features. Driver compatibility could become a problem, and if regulatory requirements govern your computer use you may also fall foul of those in the coming years.

That’s all frustrating enough if you’re a home user considering a move to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC to enjoy Windows 10 access over an extended period. But if you’re using the operating system in a business – or in an embedded, specialist machine – then it could become a mission-critical point of failure.

If you’re happy enough to go without feature updates and store apps on your desktop PC or laptop – and use a very basic and particular version of Windows – then you could use Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC and enjoy support all the way until 2032.

But that’s only going to be worthwhile for tech-savvy users who really don’t want to move to Windows 11 – and who are aware of the caveats.

What are my options?

If you manage embedded devices that need to work stably and consistently for long periods of time, then you’re in luck – if you’re already running Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, then it’s worth continuing to ensure continuity within your operations.

And if you’re still using the conventional version of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, a move to LTSC should be relatively straightforward and will buy you support all the way until 2032.

But if you haven’t yet made the move to the LTSC, you’ve got more leeway. It’s worth investigating whether a move to Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC would make more sense for your organization and its devices.

It has newer features, modernized software and driver support and a longer end-of-support date – mainstream support is currently slated to run until 2029, with extended support all the way until October 2034.

If you’re not using any of those IoT Enterprise editions of Windows, though, then the situation is trickier.

We can’t recommend moving from a conventional version of Windows to the Windows 10 or Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC version – it’s a complicated process filled with pitfalls, and you could lose data or access.

Instead, a traditional move to Windows 11 will likely be easier. And if you’re determined to stick with Windows 10, consider Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC rather than the IoT-specific version, or invest in a Microsoft Extended Security Updates, which enable three more years of usage at an extra cost.

It’s complicated – but take your time

It’s understandable if you’ve been nervous about the end of Windows 10 support given the headlines about the October 14 2025 deadline. And, equally, it makes sense that some people will have seen the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC deadline and thought that it could be a potential option for sticking with the older operating system.

In reality, though, the situation is a little more complicated, and this specialist version of Windows isn’t an effective way of extending useful device lifespans for many users.

If you’re already using Windows 10 IoT Enterprise on embedded devices and specialist computers that need long-term predictability and security, then this LTSC version makes sense – and you probably already knew that.

But if you run conventional versions of Windows or you’re not already wedded to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, then this long-term version may not be the best option. For traditional computing, it’s time to bite the bullet and upgrade to Windows 11 or pay for Extended Security Updates. For embedded devices, switching to Windows 11 IoT Enterprise or its LTSC will give you even more stability.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC isn’t for everyone, but it’s certainly got its place. And if you’re confused about what to do now that October 14 2025 has passed, don’t panic – consider your options, make a plan, and you’ll be fine.

Microsoft’s official support for Windows 10 may have ended on October 14, but you don’t need to panic if you haven’t yet upgraded your business to Windows 11.

Instead, take a deep breath and start creating an effective migration plan so your organization can move to Windows 11 as smoothly and effectively as possible.

A robust plan can turn a chaotic upgrade into a smooth transition. When IT upgrades can make the difference between falling behind rivals and beating the competition, it’s vital to get them right.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry. Read our nine-point rundown of the steps you need to take – and then you’ll be able to start planning your own successful switch.

Start with a Windows 10 hardware audit

Before you even think about installing Windows 11, consider the Windows 10 devices you’re currently using.

The good news? If your Windows 10 devices are eligible, they’ll get a free upgrade to Windows 11. The bad? Devices need 1GHz dual-core CPUs, 4GB of memory, 64GB of storage space, TPM 2.0, a UEFI-based system with Secure Boot and a few other features in order to qualify.

Audit your existing Windows 10 PCs and laptops, because you’ll need to determine which devices are eligible and which ones will need to be replaced with newer models or upgraded with new components.

It’s not just about evaluating which units meet the minimum requirements for the migration, either. Even if some devices qualify, their age or condition might mean you want to upgrade anyway to ensure improved performance after the move.

The warranties on older devices might have almost expired, too, or your leases could have run out – and they’re both good reasons to refresh your hardware at the same time as upgrading to Windows 11, even if those older devices could technically run the new operating system.

When auditing your Windows 10 hardware, remember peripherals like docking stations, monitors, and printers. You’ll need to check if they’re compatible with Windows 11, because it may be worth upgrading those.

Happily, there are some tools available from Microsoft that can make this process smoother. The Endpoint Configuration Manager can provide your IT teams with a centralized view of eligibility – and it can be used to handle the upgrade, too.

The Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit is packed with assessment, performance, compatibility and deployment tools, and Microsoft’s PC Health Check app is suitable for use on individual machines.

Sort out your software

Any effective Windows 11 migration needs to consider software alongside hardware. You’ll need to create an inventory of the apps that are in use throughout your organization, including version usage, license ownership and driver deployments.

You should determine which Windows 10 apps are critical for your business, and conduct a full investigation into the Windows 11 compatibility of all the software that you’re using in your business. It’s worth testing apps in a virtual, controlled Windows 11 environment.

Survey your staff to find out more about their workflows, which features they use and their accessibility requirements so you can bear those important factors in mind when you migrate.

If the apps you need are compatible with Windows 11, that’s great. But if you rely on software that won’t work smoothly on the new operating system, you’ll need to source replacement tools or invest in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates to buy yourself some time.

When you’re auditing your software landscape, don’t forget about Office or Outlook plugins, security certificates and browser extensions, either; these are often just as important as pieces of standalone software.

Take time to think about your networking: make sure that your networks will be able to handle the extra bandwidth required by Windows 11 upgrade downloads.

Stay compliant with valid licenses

There’s a third part of your IT estate that needs evaluation before you migrate – licensing and management.

No matter how you use Windows, Microsoft 365 or other Microsoft services, you need to ensure that you’ll have enough licenses for your users and devices once you’ve completed the upgrade.

If you’re migrating in a smaller business, then you may be able to upgrade devices manually through Windows Update. But in larger organizations with centralized management and licensing, it’ll be easier to manage an effective, consistent upgrade through apps like Intune, with Entra ID deployed to manage and maintain user profiles and identities.

Figuring out your licensing picture isn’t just important to ensure a smooth upgrade – it helps maintain your security posture and ensure that you remain compliant with data protection regulations, too.

Remember that if you’ve got Microsoft 365 deployed that licensing must be maintained properly there, too, unless you want staff to lose access to crucial tools like Word and Excel.

By evaluating your business software, licensing and operating system status, you’ll be able to create a consistent Windows 11 image with apps, drivers and licensing details. You can use this to upgrade all of your devices consistently when you’re ready to make the move.

Create a thorough, careful rollout plan

By this point, you should have a good idea of your hardware, software and licensing status and you should have an effective Windows 11 image that you can deploy across your organization. Now it’s time to figure out timing.

Before you start a wider Windows 11 upgrade, identify a small, representative group of devices in your business to run a pilot upgrade. By doing this, you’ll figure out what works well, how you can improve, and what pitfalls you need to watch for before the full rollout.

Once your pilot scheme irons out the kinks and helps you clarify an effective upgrade method, you should conduct the full upgrade in phases to ensure business continuity and consistent operations throughout the migration – you don’t want to try to upgrade everything at once, encounter an unforeseen issue and find that your whole business grinds to a halt.

Careful planning at this point will ensure a smoother upgrade. Consider starting with your IT staff, because they’re ones who will be able to fix issues and troubleshoot other users – and make sure you check that they’re going to have the time and resources to handle the wider migration.

You could start with early adopters, then move through your departments upgrading conventional machines, and then upgrade executive devices, older units and systems with specialist use cases.

Alternatively, upgrade departments with flexible workflows or fewer critical applications early during the migration, and base your upgrades around quieter periods within your business.

Be careful with data

If lots of your machines can be upgraded without replacement or component upgrades, then you’re in luck – Windows 11 migration should be a much smoother process.

That’s because in-place upgrades should preserve user data, settings, network access information and most applications, as long as they’re compatible with the operating system.

And if you use a centralized management system like Microsoft Intune, its upgrading options should allow you to deploy Windows 11 remotely with relative ease.

Nevertheless, it’s vital to ensure that you understand the data landscape in your organization and put robust backup procedures in place.

Ensure that you and your IT team knows where critical data is stored across your IT estate, including user profiles, personalization settings and more. No-one ever wants a Windows 11 migration to go wrong, but if crucial data is protected by robust backup and restoration protocols then it’ll be easier to recover if you do encounter issues.

Shore up your security

Similarly, just because Windows 11 has new security features you shouldn’t get complacent about security during your migration – and afterwards.

New and existing devices will only work with Windows 11 if they’ve got TPM 2.0, UEFI Secure Boot systems and up-to-date firmware. Beyond that, use BitLocker to ensure your storage drives are fully encrypted, Windows Hello for more secure sign-ins and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to protect your entire IT estate from a central location.

Verify that your existing security tools, policies and configurations will remain supported and effective when you’ve moved from Windows 10 to Windows 11. We recommend testing your antivirus software, encryption tools and VPNs in virtual environments before you begin upgrading.

Don’t forget that you’ll be running a mix of Windows 10 and Windows 11 machines during the migration, too, so ensure that both operating systems will be covered until the migration is complete.

Communicate with your staff

Moving to Windows 11 is a huge opportunity to improve productivity, security and accessibility, but it can be a headache for staff members who are familiar with their Windows 10 workflows.

To combat this, make sure you use effective communication at every stage of the migration. Tell people what’s changing, why it’s important, and the schedule – and give them easy routes to ask questions and get help, if necessary.

During the upgrade, provide plenty of updates so people know what’s going on, even including a live status page. Be transparent about issues and how you’re addressing them. Make sure you provide multiple, easy ways for people to get in contact.

Once the migration has been completed, make sure staff have access to training resources that will help them learn about the new operating system, and use surveys to gather feedback.

Keep the momentum going

Those surveys can help you ensure that future IT upgrades are even better, and that’s an important part of the process – because you shouldn’t upgrade to Windows 11 and then stop providing support, refinement and communication.

It’s important to measure the effectiveness of the upgrade with staff feedback and data about the number of devices you’ve upgraded, how many had to be replaced, and the time the entire process has taken alongside information about budgets, pitfalls and problems you overcame.

Use Microsoft’s apps, like Intune and Defender for Endpoint, to track progress, device reliability and security, and review critical information with your IT teams. Also ensure that you keep updating your Windows 11 devices when Microsoft issues patches, because you’ll enjoy new features while keeping your IT estate secure.

Keep training your staff and asking them for feedback on surveys, and address pain points when they’re frequently appearing in that feedback. And make sure to include regular security awareness training as part of the process, too.

Don’t rush!

Our final step for planning a Windows 11 migration now that the October 14^th deadline has passed? Use less haste and more speed, because rushing can be counterproductive, leading to time-consuming errors that can cause problems for your business.

That might sound off when it’s important to upgrade as quickly as possible, but if you resist the urge to rush and plan a proper, thorough migration, it’ll be smoother, easier and more cost-effective – and you’ll enjoy better productivity, acceptance and support from your staff, too.

It’s vital to upgrade to Windows 11 if you haven’t already – but it’s equally vital to do it properly.

When you’re self-employed or running your own business as a solopreneur, it’s easy to forget about technology when you’re concentrating on dozens of jobs all competing for your attention.

But with Windows 11 packed with new features that prioritize productivity, we recommend taking some time out from those urgent tasks and upgrading to the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. It might take a little while, but it will also help you elevate your work, your reputation, and your chance of success.

It’s even more critical now that we’ve passed October 14th, too – because Windows 10 support has now ended. By continuing to use the older OS, you’re opening your business, your clients and your personal files up to security risks, and you may suffer from productivity problems and more issues, too.

If you’re a freelancer or solopreneur who hasn’t upgraded to Windows 11, then don’t worry – you’ve still got time. And if you’ve not made up your mind, here are five crucial reasons why you should consider making the switch as soon as possible.

It’s a serious security risk

Because we’ve passed October 14 2025, Windows 10 is no longer receiving security updates, bug fixes or any technical support, even if serious vulnerabilities are found within the system.

And when you combine the lack of security fixes with the sheer number of people still using Windows 10 – estimated to be a mighty 21 million at the start of October 2025 – you can be sure that hackers will be scanning for vulnerable operating systems, new loopholes and fresh ways to attack devices.

When even one unfixed vulnerability can be exploited globally by hackers within hours, that could be a serious issue for any freelancer or solopreneur still running Windows 10 devices.

If you’re a freelancer or a solopreneur, your Windows 10 devices will undoubtedly contain invoices and financial information and potentially sensitive client data. If you use your device beyond your working life, too, that PC or laptop may also contain your personal information.

An attack that compromises your systems and gains access to potentially sensitive information can cause significant stress and embarrassment, slowing you down while you recover your systems. That’s not all, either: a breach can cause you and your business to suffer reputational damage.

Cyber attacks can be costly: over 50% of freelancers have reported experiencing security breaches, and recovery can cost thousands of dollars.

If you’re not quite ready to upgrade, Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates will continue to provide critical Windows 10 security updates. They’re going to be made available for three years, but there’s a cost for every device you want to protect – and the cost rises every year.

Microsoft intends these updates to be a short-term fix to help people secure more time for their Windows 11 upgrades, so don’t see this as a long-term solution to keep your business devices running on Windows 10.

We don’t recommend relying on third-party security software, either. While the best antivirus and security tools can detect and block many threats, they can’t fix core operating system vulnerabilities, and those are what hackers will be targeting with Windows 10.

It’ll be harder to work on Windows 10

If you insist on using Windows 10, then you risk running into software compatibility problems.

As Windows 10 usage drops and Windows 11 becomes even more prominent, software developers will inevitably stop releasing software for the system. They will probably stop testing and optimizing existing apps for the OS.

Consider how much third-party software you use in your day-to-day life as a freelancer or solopreneur, especially if you use that device for work and personal use.

From cloud storage tools and creative suites to word processors and accounting software, all of those apps come from third-party developers. And as they stop optimizing and updating apps for Windows 10, your software could slow down, become less stable and expose your devices to security vulnerabilities that just aren’t fixed. This is also true of web browsers, which will suffer from security and plugin support issues.

You won’t get access to new features, many of which will take advantage of Windows 11’s upgrades and integrations – because they’re not available on Windows 10.

It’s not just about software, either. Component manufacturers will eventually prioritize driver updates for Windows 11 devices. In time, they may stop releasing driver updates for Windows 10 completely. That means you could lose compatibility and stability across a wide range of devices, from webcams and microphones to printers and even motherboard features.

We understand that it’s difficult to change a routine that works, especially when you’ve successfully built a business or a self-employed career using a Windows 10 device full of familiar apps and devices.

But as software and hardware support for Windows 10 fades, you’ll spend more time dealing with slower software, features that don’t work and new bugs – and time you spend troubleshooting issues or finding new apps is time that could be spent earning money instead.

A move to Windows 11 might be initially awkward, but it’s still an easier option than trying to work on a Windows 10 device that slowly loses its functionality.

Windows 11 has loads of new productivity features

So far we’ve concentrated on the security and software issues that may emerge if you stay on Windows 10 – and they’re good reasons. But also consider that moving to Windows 11 can unlock new levels of productivity for your business thanks to a wave of new features.

The first? Microsoft Copilot. This AI-powered digital assistant can accelerate productivity by tackling some of your repetitive tasks, like summarizing emails or drafting documents so you can concentrate on high-value work.

The full version of Copilot is available for Microsoft 365 users, with a basic version available for anyone with a Microsoft account. If you’ve got a Copilot+ PC it works across most Microsoft Office Suite apps, so it’s normally going to be available to support your business ambitions.

That’s not the only feature in Windows 11 that can support freelancers and solopreneurs. Snap layouts help you juggle multiple apps and virtual desktops can help you keep your projects organized.

Microsoft has loaded Windows 11 with useful voice-to-text features, a smarter clipboard, and improved focus modes to help you concentrate on the work that matters – alongside dozens of UI improvements and enhanced features that will make your working life smoother and more productive.

Windows 11 has much better performance, too

Windows 11 doesn’t just include visible software improvements that could improve your productivity. The OS has plenty of features and enhancements in the background that will make life easier while you’re working.

Improved standby modes with faster resumptions and smoother network connections mean that life is easier for freelancers and solopreneurs moving between home, offices, client sites and co-working spaces.

Window 11’s smarter, adaptive energy-saving modes do a better job of managing device power usage, which can mean longer battery life in laptops. You may even enjoy potential reductions in household bills because you’re using less electricity.

And if you need more power, Windows 11 can dynamically adjust CPU and GPU performance depending on your workflow, so the components will provide more grunt in challenging tasks.

One of the more recent updates to Windows 11, named 24H2, introduced a wave of additional performance improvements.

Thanks to operating system optimizations introduced in 24H2, Microsoft says that monthly updates can install up to 45% faster than on older versions of the OS while using 25% less of your device’s processing power – and that device reboot times are 40% improved, too.

Smarter laptop battery charging improves long-term battery health, which can boost device lifespans, and 24H2 also included smarter memory prioritization and improved update reliability.

It’s important to stay compliant, secure and trustworthy

Upgrading to Windows 11 is important for freelancers and solopreneurs because of the message it sends out into the world. You might think that sounds silly or dramatic, but hear us out.

Clients want to work with people who are reliable and trustworthy, and a move to Windows 11 shows that you’re committed to professionalism and security.

Anyone employing a freelancer or a solopreneur will expect them to protect data and systems, so running a secure and up-to-date OS will give them confidence that you can be trusted. Some clients will even expect you to sign contracts that demand up-to-date systems, especially in the public sector or the finance industry.

There are considerations beyond those personal relationships, too. Insecure devices running older operating systems and using unsupported software can potentially breach data-compliance regulations, and that’s the last thing you want when you’re trying to convince potential clients to trust you with sensitive data.

Think about the future, too: by using Windows 11, you’re using the latest baseline for software, hardware and driver development. That means you’ll enjoy full functionality and performance from software, components and updates you install in the future. You’ll also get access to all of Microsoft’s latest OS features.

It’s time to upgrade – sooner rather than later

An upgrade to Windows 11 might cause some short-term issues while you adjust to a new operating system, but it’s vital for freelancers and solopreneurs who want to ensure success in the years to come.

By upgrading, you’ll give yourself the best chance of staying secure, you can use the latest software, and you’ll present a trustworthy and well-organized image to the world – important when you want to win new business.

And the sooner you upgrade the easier the transition will be.

An upgrade to Windows 11 is relatively straightforward and, for most Windows 10 users, it’s free – and, thanks to loads of features that boost productivity, performance and security, it’s essential for freelancers and solopreneurs who take their business as seriously as their computing.

• Windows 10 has received its final security update
• It fixes 172 security flaws in the OS, including six zero-day vulnerabilities
• It's a sobering thought to imagine how these security holes will mount up over the months for those who don't sign up for extended support

Windows 10 has received its last ever update - at least as far as official support goes - and it's something of an eye-opener as to the dangers you might face if you carry on using the operating system beyond its End of Life.

Bleeping Computer reports that the October 2025 update comes with a whole load of fixes for security problems in Windows 10.

In fact, this final cumulative update for Windows 10 carries the cure for 172 security flaws, and that includes six zero-day vulnerabilities.

A zero-day vulnerability is a security hole in Windows 10 that Microsoft didn't know about when the attack vector emerged and was made public. The name refers to the fact that Microsoft had zero days to respond to the threat (in other words, it wasn't discovered by the developer and patched in advance - as is ideally the case).

So, these are worrying flaws – because malicious actors may be trying to exploit them, given their unaddressed nature – and the patches for them are contained in this October update.

The fixed zero-day issues in Windows 10 include a flaw in the Windows Remote Access Connection Manager, a Secure Boot bypass, and a hole in TPM 2.0 (somewhat ironically, as this is the security feature that's needed for an upgrade to Windows 11, functionality that some Windows 10 PCs are lacking, which rules them out).

Analysis: flawed thinking

Reading about security vulnerabilities is always dull and dry stuff, and often, they're in elements of Windows that you won't go near - like the Remote Access Connection Manager (and one of the zero-days is a flaw in a fax modem driver, believe it or not).

However, there are still over 170 security issues here – and that's just in one month. Six months down the road, you're looking at a thousand of these little holes in Windows 10, and in time, the older OS will become a veritable security sieve, as it were.

The way these vulnerabilities multiply underscores why it's best not to keep running Windows 10 without security updates, even if that's a course some people will doubtless take (as happened with Windows 7).

If you want to argue that you really don't need security updates for Windows 10 from Microsoft, I've covered why you most likely do in a recent article. And there's really no excuse with Windows 10, seeing as consumers can get a year of additional support for free via Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program (and while there's a small catch to that ESU, it's no big deal in my book).

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• Microsoft promises to crack one of the biggest problems with Windows 11: slow performance
• Microsoft exec's vision of Windows 12 and beyond could terrify some of you

• Windows 10 end of life means only newer hardware can stay fully supported
• Older Intel and AMD chips will lose security and compatibility updates
• Check processor generation before buying new or used computers

Windows 10 has finally reached its end of its life and users looking to buy a new or second-hand computer need to be careful.

Any PC without Windows 11 support will no longer receive updates, leaving it exposed to security risks and compatibility problems. Provided you’re running a good antivirus and anti-malware program that won’t be too much of an issue short term, but it will be down the line.

Windows 11 introduced stricter hardware requirements than any previous version of Microsoft’s operating system. This includes needing TPM 2.0 support, Secure Boot compatibility, and built-in security mitigations.

Check your processor

Because of these restrictions, many older CPUs simply can’t run Windows 11.

That includes many systems running Intel’s 7th generation Core processors and older, as well as early AMD Ryzen chips.

These restrictions mean that older processors lack the underlying design features to meet Microsoft’s new security and reliability goals.

For Intel, Windows 11 compatibility begins with the 8th generation Core series and newer, so includes all i3, i5, i7, and i9 chips from 2017 onwards, as well as modern Xeon and Core Ultra processors.

Anything older, such as 6th or 7th generation Core models, are not officially supported (the exception is the Core i7-7820HQ, found in a few laptops that shipped with newer driver frameworks).

The same is true for older AMD chips. Only Ryzen 2000 series processors and later meet Windows 11’s baseline.

First-generation Ryzen 1000 processors, as well as older FX and A-series chips, don’t, nor do some early Ryzen Mobile ones.

If you’re considering a second hand PC, check what processor it has. Desktops or laptops built before 2018 likely won’t qualify for official Windows 11 updates, no matter how fast they feel.

Windows 11 can be manually installed on some unsupported systems (there are workarounds), but of course Microsoft frowns upon the idea.

If you’re not sure whether the PC you’re considering buying has the right hardware, you can check the list of supported Intel chips here, and the AMD equivalent here.

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• Microsoft's clarified that Defender Antivirus will continue to get updates on Windows 10 even though support for the OS has now ended
• The antivirus will receive updates and new virus definitions through October 2028
• That'll help keep these PCs safer, but it's not the full story

Microsoft has made it clear that its Defender Antivirus will still provide protection against malware on Windows 10 PCs, which have just reached their End of Life in terms of support.

Neowin picked up on a blog post where Microsoft stated that: "Microsoft Defender will continue to provide detection and protection capabilities to the extent possible on Windows 10 and other legacy systems."

The company adds that: "For Windows 10 customers without Defender, Microsoft will continue to provide security intelligence updates for the built-in Microsoft Defender Antivirus protection through October 2028."

It's the latter bit that we're interested in, as consumers continue to run Windows 10: this is the built-in antivirus that comes by default with the OS, and, as noted, it'll keep working with updates and virus definitions provided until October 2028. 'Microsoft Defender' refers to the broad suite of security features as a whole, including the antivirus and more.

So, if you've got security updates for Defender Antivirus through to 2028, are you safe sticking with Windows 10, even without monthly cumulative updates for the operating system?

No is the short answer to that, as Microsoft points out: "Defender Antivirus alone isn't a comprehensive risk mitigation posture", and you need to sign up for Windows 10's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as well as keep Defender Antivirus running.

Analysis: what's safe enough?

This is something I've already discussed in a recent article about whether using Windows 10 is safe after the end of support deadline. While it's true that you may be okay if you pursue this route, and you're very, very careful about what you do online, and you have a good antivirus backing you up (Defender is decent enough), the reality of this situation is that most of us simply aren't cautious or careful enough – even if we think we are.

And even the ultra-cautious could be hit by malware if they're unlucky - and without Windows 10's monthly security updates, as time goes on, the risks increase because there will be a growing number of unpatched holes in the older operating system. It's just a simple matter of odds, and given that extended support (for an extra year) is free to consumers (bar a slight catch, albeit that caveat isn't present in Europe), you'd be silly not to take up Microsoft on that offer, frankly.

Don't rely on Microsoft Defender or any other antivirus in place of Windows 10 updates, as Microsoft advises, even if its own security app is still getting regular updates through to 2028.

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• I was about to upgrade to Windows 11, but I've decided to stick with Windows 10 – here's why
• Is using Windows 10 still safe after the End of Life deadline? All your questions answered
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• Windows 10 reached end-of-life, ending security updates and future improvements.
• Over 40% of global endpoints still run Windows 10, posing serious security risks
• Financial firms face budget constraints and legacy infrastructure challenges delaying modernization

Windows 10 has officially reached its end-of-life status (EoL), meaning it will no longer receive crucial security updates, important improvements, or upgrades.

Despite the deadline being public knowledge for years, many endpoints worldwide are still running the OS, risking device takeover, data exfiltration, and a myriad of other threats that are bound to appear sooner or later.

Coinciding with the EoL date, two companies analyzed the market to understand just how big the potential threat landscape is, and came back with astonishing results. Cloudhouse surveyed 135 finance IT leaders and found 60% still running “a large number” of servers and desktops with unsupported versions of Windows OS.

The heavy weight of technical debt

At the same time, seperate TeamViewer data revealed more than 40% of global endpoints that received support via its platform still run Windows 10. The company analyzed an anonymized sample of 250 million TeamViewer connections initiated between July and September 2025, including connections from users with both paid and free licenses.

Windows 10 is still supported, and has no known high-severity vulnerabilities, or zero-days that can be exploited. This doesn’t mean that IT teams aren’t struggling with legacy infrastructure.

In fact, Cloudhouse’s report found 90% of organizations carry Windows technical debt, and more than 59% of finance IT leads are spending too much time maintaining and troubleshooting legacy Windows infrastructure.

Money seems to be the key constraint preventing businesses from migrating to newer tech. The study also found that 95% of respondents wished they could spend more money - and time - on strategic projects, rather than day-to-day maintenance. Still, almost 90% have a plan in place to modernize their infrastructure within the next 24 months.

“Financial services firms shoulder acute operational risk from legacy Windows estates,” said Mat Clothier, CEO at Cloudhouse. “This is a business-critical risk that drains budgets and prevents security and digital transformation work. With major Microsoft support milestones approaching in 2025, firms need actionable, low-risk migration pathways now.”

Don't forget to take a look at our Windows 10 End of Life live updates here

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Upgrading to Windows 11 is an opportunity to level up productivity, safety and collaboration throughout your organization – because Microsoft has filled the new operating system with new productivity, performance, and accessibility features while beefing up security.

But whether you’re a local company or a complex multinational, an IT upgrade like an operating system migration is a significant change, and one that requires plenty of research, planning and organization.

As ever, the best way to approach a wholesale change like this is to start with extensive preparation. To help you and your business get started, we’ve gathered together ten vital considerations about Windows 11 upgrades that you need to consider – from the OS and its hardware to staff training and sustainability.

Moving to Windows 11 is undoubtedly the best move for your business, so read on to make sure your business is covered from every angle.

The risks of Windows 10

Because we’re now beyond the crucial October 14, 2025 deadline, most versions of Windows 10 aren’t getting support updates – which means that Windows 10 isn’t getting any security updates, either.

Missing out on those critical security updates means that your devices – and, therefore, your business – are more exposed to attack when new vulnerabilities are discovered within the system.

Because the OS isn’t getting updates, you can be sure that hackers will be actively searching for new loopholes and exposed systems, because Windows 10 devices will be seen as easy targets.

If your Windows 10 devices are hit by malware, ransomware or data breaches, it could prove extremely costly for your business: IBM’s latest research found that the average cost of a security breach is $4.4 million, and that’s before you consider any regulatory issues or compliance problems caused by running older, unsecured hardware.

Beyond that, breaches can seriously damage the trust you’ve built up with customers, suppliers and partners – causing even more long-term damage for your organization – and they can be enormously stressful and time-consuming for everyone at your business.

Not every device is eligible

Devices can only run Windows 11 if they meet a particular set of hardware requirements. They’re not particularly ambitious, but if you’re running older devices in your business then they still may not be able to use the operating system.

Windows 11 needs a dual-core CPU with a 1GHz clock speed, 4GB of memory, 64GB of free storage capacity and a DirectX12-capable graphics card.

Microsoft’s operating system has some specific requirements that revolve around security, too: in order to get Windows 11 running, your device must have UEFI BIOS software with Secure Boot capability and a TPM 2.0 chip.

Beyond those core requirements, there are stricter conditions if you want to run particular features in the new operating system, with 5G, BitLocker, Snap, Microsoft Teams, two-factor authentication, Wi-Fi 6E, Windows Hello and more all requiring additional hardware like cameras, microphones, and more.

If you’re not sure whether devices are eligible, the Microsoft PC Health Check app is the fastest way to find out, and the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit is an ideal toolkit to use in larger businesses.

You’ll have to deal with those ineligible devices

If you’ve got devices that you can’t upgrade to Windows 11, then you’ll need to consider your next steps.

It may be worth investigating if component upgrades could bring those machines up to speed, but you’ll probably find that they’re just too old to prove useful.

Evaluate specifications, costs and warranties to make sure you invest in suitable Windows 11 devices, and consider refurbished units if you want to be more sustainable. No matter what you buy, use Windows Autopilot to ensure consistent OS deployments, especially if you’re shipping devices to hybrid or remote employees.

Once you’ve backed up important data and transitioned to new Windows 11 models, think about securely recycling the old equipment to improve your green credentials.

Also explore trade-in schemes or device-as-a-service providers for your upgrades, especially if you want to save some money or opt for more sustainable technology in your organization.

Investigate long-term support options

Despite all of that, there may be some Windows 10 devices that you just can’t upgrade right now because they’re running legacy applications or specialized apps – or because they’re a critical part of complex infrastructure within your business.

If you need to keep running Windows 10 devices for a longer period of time, Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates are worth considering.

These are purchased on a per-device basis and provide critical security updates for three additional years, but the price goes up every year and you won’t get any new features of general tech support.

Those critical security patches mean that Extended Support Updates are worth exploring if you need more time and must keep running some of your Windows 10 devices, but they’re not a cost-effective option or a long-term solution.

Free OS upgrades are readily available

If your Windows 10 devices do qualify for an in-place upgrade, the good news might keep coming – because the upgrade itself is usually free!

The upgrade can be tackled on a per-device basis through Windows Update, but if you’re working in a larger organization then plan a proper rollout using enterprise tools like Windows Autopilot or Intune.

Also check your licensing situation using the Microsoft 365 Admin Center, especially if you’re managing a larger IT estate.

This will allow your organization’s IT department to upgrade securely and consistently across a larger fleet.

Consider applications and drivers

Ready to rollout? That’s great, but before migrating you should audit your current security posture and evaluate the applications that you and your colleagues use on a daily basis.

A thorough audit will help you identify which applications and drivers will continue to work when you’ve migrated and highlight any applications that may cause problems and any outdated drivers that could cause operational issues.

Identifying incompatibilities means you prevent downtime, complications and unexpected costs, and it gives you time to discover and deploy alternative apps.

Also bear in mind that during a phased rollout you’ll be running Windows 10 and Windows 11 simultaneously, so ensure that your apps, drivers and systems will work together smoothly during this period.

And, finally, ensure that device management will continue to work smoothly once you’ve migrated with your Intune, Entra ID and Microsoft 365 deployments if you already use those methods within your business.

Be sensible about the schedule

Your Windows 11 upgrade should include a pilot period that upgrades a small, representative group of devices so you can identify any issues before a wider rollout.

An effective migration plan should define clear timelines and the resources your IT teams requires. It’s also a good idea to align your migration with slower periods within your business so you’re not interrupting productivity at peak times.

No matter the size of your organization, you should upgrade to Windows 11 in phases. This can help maintain business continuity and reduce strain on your IT teams.

Get serious about security

Unsurprisingly, security is vital to Windows 11 - just look at those additional security requirements like TPM 2.0 and the potential security risks of staying on Windows 10. And that means you’ve got to plan for security during and after your migration, too.

During your migration, any weak authentication settings, poorly configured policies or open ports can expose your systems to attacks before you’ve established new defenses, and it’s easier to leave those routes open when you’re in the middle of potentially frenetic and fast-paced switches.

To make sure you’re covered, you should take steps to prioritize endpoint protection, encryption and identity management during the migration.

Your IT teams should take that best practice and keep it going once you’ve migrated, too, with continuous monitoring, regular reviews and frequent staff education and awareness campaigns.

Make sure staff are engaged

Speaking of staff, you shouldn’t just keep them in the loop about security when you’re upgrading to Windows 11, because clear staff communication is vital for any big IT migration.

Your employees need regular communication to let them know what’s changing, when it’s happening, and how they’ll benefit – if they’re going to have access to improved productivity features like Copilot, Snap layouts, widgets and more, they’ll need to know about it.

Early and frequent communication sets expectations, reduces resistance to change and encourages users to back up data, take part in pilot schemes and be more engaged in your IT upgrades.

Make sure that you continue updating users during your rollout, and once you’ve completed the Windows 11 upgrade, provide training, FAQs and resources to help staff members get used to the new operating system – and make sure you keep lines of communication open with feedback opportunities, too.

Start sooner rather than later

We may have passed the October 14 deadline for Windows 10, but don’t panic – there’s still time to plan a proper migration.

And the sooner you start planning, scheduling and communicating your Windows 11 migration, the easier the entire process will be.

Windows 10 may be a familiar operating system for many, but the passing of that support deadline marks the end of an era – and a sign that it’s time to move on.

And while Windows 11 may be unfamiliar for some, its security, productivity and accessibility features make it an ideal next step for businesses and individuals alike – so best of luck with your upgrade, and we’ll see you on the other side!

• Windows 10 support ends tomorrow (October 14) but millions remain reluctant to upgrade
• Searches for Windows 10 soar despite Microsoft’s push toward Windows 11
• Older hardware and upgrade costs keep users clinging to the aging OS

As we should all know by now, tomorrow (October 14) marks the end of life for Windows 10, unless you’re prepared to pay Microsoft for extended support. That means you’ll stop receiving important security updates and will be at greater risk of hacking and malware.

The truth is, it won’t affect you immediately if you haven’t yet upgraded to Windows 11, switched to Linux, or bought a Mac.

But over time, using Windows 10 will become increasingly risky. A solid antivirus or anti-malware tool will still protect you from many threats, but not all.

Download Windows 10!

Microsoft has been pushing hard for users to move to Windows 11, but despite the looming cutoff, the new OS hasn’t seen a meteoric surge of willing upgraders and millions of users say they intend to keep using Windows 10.

In Statcounter’s September 2025 snapshot, Windows 11 actually lost share for the second month in a row, falling to 48.94%.

Windows 10, which everyone should, in theory, be scrambling to leave, held steady at 40.5%. It might have been higher if Windows 7 hadn’t put on a surprise spurt.

The problem is that Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements, and for users with older PCs, it may not even be possible to run it.

There are unofficial workarounds, but few people want to cheat the system just to install a new OS.

Microsoft’s answer for those on older hardware is simple: buy a new PC. But that’s not always realistic, especially for anyone on a budget or businesses still heavily reliant on Windows 10 machines.

In the past few days, searches for Windows 10 have soared. Microsoft would hope it’s because users are looking for Windows 11 upgrade guides, but it isn’t.

Search for it on Google and the top result is how to download the Windows 10 disc image (ISO file).

Microsoft would obviously be hoping users see a clear warning about end-of-life support and how to move to Windows 11, not how to grab a Windows 10 ISO so they can install or reinstall the old system.

And if you try the same search on Bing? You’ll get the same story.

After the old system reaches it end of life, that will likely change, but for now users seem more interested in clinging on than moving forward.

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Now the Windows 10 end of life deadline has passed, you may be looking to upgrade your work device to ensure your systems remain secure and supported.

We’ve already rounded up the best business laptops, along with the best mobile workstations and best workstations for those looking for a bit more power - but could this be the time to move away from Microsoft software for good?

We spoke to Apple’s in-store experts to find out why it thinks its products could be a worthwhile replacement for your current Windows devices - let us know what you think.

Security

It’s long been a popular misconception that Apple devices are more secure than their Windows equivalents - in fact, this has often led hackers to be even tougher in attempting to attack Mac and iOS systems.

However the company is keen to promote its security protections to set it apart from Microsoft’s devices, particularly for SMBs, who often have so much to consider that security can sometimes fall by the wayside.

"Small businesses often lack a dedicated IT team and may not qualify for - or be able to afford - technical support and advanced mobile device management (MDM) solutions. For these businesses built-in security features on Apple devices become critical for protecting sensitive data and ensuring business continuity,” Rasa, a Business Expert at Apple Covent Garden, in London, told us.

Apple wants its business customers to feel safe and secure when using Mac devices, and has carried out a lot of work on building its services to ensure a robust system of protections.

"For small businesses, the robust encryption and privacy controls on Mac help you protect your data and comply with regulations, building trust with your clients,” added Eren, a Business Pro at Apple Regent Street.

Seamless experience with your iPhone

With smartphones now an integral part of our everyday lives, more work is done on a mobile device than ever before.

With its high-profile products across both phone and computing, Apple believes its devices can offer SMB users an easy way to work, collaborate and be productive, wherever they are.

"For small business owners already using iPhone, Mac is a natural extension of their workflow. Your iPhones camera, AirDrop and Continuity features create a seamless experience, saving time and boosting productivity,” Eren from Apple Regent Street, London notes.

"Whether you're a real estate agent capturing property photos, a designer noting down inspiration on the go, or a contractor managing invoices from the job site, the seamless integration between iPhone and Mac streamlines your workflow. Instantly sharing photos, documents, and updates across devices keeps you connected and productive.”

Whether you’re working in the office, on the train on the way to a meeting, or at home, Apple says this synchronization between Mac and iPhone can really make all the difference for business users.

“Many small businesses and start ups use iPhone to keep on top of things when they’re on the go, and with real-time collaboration and cloud file access the team back in the office on Mac everyone is aligned,” notes Dasha, a Business Pro from Apple Covent Garden.

Mac has the apps you need

Making the switch can be tricky whatever hardware is involved, but just because you’re making the move doesn’t mean you’ll be left behind when it comes to software.

Despite all the well-publicized rivalries, the simple truth is that Apple devices can run Microsoft’s most popular and recognizable apps, meaning there’s no need to learn a whole new set of programs and systems.

“So many business customers don’t know that the Microsoft 365 suite of apps is compatible with Mac, and that they can be used across devices via iCloud along with curated apps for business on the Mac App Store and free productivity apps Pages, Numbers, and Keynote already built-in on Mac,” Marta, a Business Expert at Apple Regent Street, notes.

The other AI - Apple Intelligence

AI is top of mind for every business these days, offering huge opportunities in terms of productivity and efficiency.

Launched in 2024, Apple Intelligence is the company’s platform for all things AI, offering a wide range of tools and services for consumers and businesses alike, which it says can more than keep up with the competition.

“‘Writing Tools enables business users to quickly and efficiently rewrite, change tone, proofread, and summarise text nearly everywhere they write, including in Mail, Notes, Pages, and third-party apps. And what’s great is that it’s designed to protect user privacy at every step,” notes Marta from Apple Regent Street.

More affordable than you think?

Another popular perception of Mac devices is that they come with a large price tag, putting them out of reach for customers such as small businesses, who may be watching every penny they spend in their bid for success.

While it’s true many Apple devices cost more than entry-level Windows devices, the company says that this doesn’t apply for all of its products.

"Affordability is a top priority for the small business owners we work with. Many of these businesses operate with limited cash flow so having access to affordable yet powerful devices like Mac mini is essential for getting started and staying productive without compromising on performance,” Rasa from Apple Covent Garden notes.

Apple is also keen to point out that even if its devices are more expensive than the competition, users will get a lot of use out of them - these are not items to be discarded quickly.

“Mac is known for its durability and reliability, holding its value exceptionally well over time,” says Eren from Apple Regent Street.

“This higher residual value means you can often recoup a significant portion of your investment when you eventually Trade In and upgrade, making Mac a smart financial choice for small businesses.”

• We've also rounded up the best productivity tools to keep you working

• Lenovo widens its lead as Windows 10’s end fuels global PC demand
• IDC reports strong growth driven by large-scale enterprise and education hardware refreshes
• Organizations upgrade ageing systems to maintain security and compliance

Lenovo has extended its already sizable lead in the global PC market as businesses rush to replace ageing Windows 10 systems before Microsoft officially ends support for the beloved OS on October 13.

The latest preliminary data from IDC shows global shipments grew 9.4% year over year to reach 75.9 million units in the third quarter of 2025, marking yet another strong period of recovery for the PC industry.

Lenovo shipped 19.4 million units, taking 25.5% of the market and growing 17.3% from last year. HP followed in second with 15 million units for a 19.8% share, while Dell reached 10.1 million at 13.3%.

Japan leading buying

Apple and Asus round out the top five with 6.8 million and 5.9 million shipments respectively.

“While the entire market is continuing on a very strong year, fueled by Windows 11 transition and the need to replace an ageing installed base, the results by regions are telling different stories,” said Jean Philippe Bouchard, research vice-president with IDC’s Worldwide Mobile Device Trackers.

“In particular, the North American market continues to be impacted by the US import tariffs shock and by macroeconomic uncertainties. While existent, the demand for newer PCs ready for Windows 11 is likely to push well into 2026,” he said.

Asia Pacific led the growth with double-digit gains.

“The demand was driven largely by Japan’s hardware refresh linked to Windows 10 end-of-support and the GIGA education project,” said Maciek Gornicki, senior research manager with IDC.

“Growth outside Japan was more modest - hindered by macroeconomic and political challenges and slow Windows 11 adoption - though there were pockets of opportunity from hardware refreshes of devices purchased during and before the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Much of the new demand IDC is seeing for modern PCs comes from lifecycle management rather than any great enthusiasm for the latest AI-capable devices.

With Windows 10 end-of-life within touching distance, organizations are simply scrambling to ensure their systems are replaced or updated before support expires and security risks increase.

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• US PC shipments fall as firms upgrade ahead of Windows 10 End of Life deadline

• Microsoft launches Windows Backup for Organizations in the runup to Windows 10 end of life
• It’ll back up from Windows 10 (and 11), but it’ll only restore to Windows 11
• The tool saves Windows settings, preferences and installed apps

Microsoft has revealed its enterprise cloud backup tool is now generally available to any business customers who need help migrating after launching in public preview earlier this year.

First introduced at Microsoft Ignite 2024 and entering public preview in May 2025, companies can now use Windows Backup for Organizations to simplify backups and make transitions to new devices easier.

The opt-in feature (disabled by default) becomes available to users after installing the September 2025 Windows Monthly Cumulative Update on Microsoft Entra joined devices.

Windows Backup for Organizations is now GA

The feature works by backing up Windows settings and preferences. It also generates a list of Microsoft Store-installed apps, so that when data is restored to a new device, the backups transfer over.

More importantly, Windows Backup for Organizations has arrived right at the very last minute during mass Windows 10 end of life upgrades, with just days to go before the OS loses support and customers face an option to pay for ESUs or update to Windows 11.

Microsoft explained that the encrypted backups are stored in Exchange Online cloud, in the tenant’s selected country or region.

Another important note: although backups can be made on Windows 10 22H2 device (as well as Windows 11 22H2, 23H2 and 24H2), they can only be installed to the latter three versions of Windows 11 – a clear push to get people to upgrade away from Windows 10.

Besides reinstating the settings saved during backup, the rest of the Out of the Box Experience (OOBE) is the same.

The systems marks part of a broader trend that Microsoft is trying to ensure businesses remain connected at all times. Apart from facilitating backups, a tool launched this summer also gives employees access to 10 days of Cloud PC access via Windows 365 Reserve.

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I’ve turned my Windows 10 laptop into a Chromebook — and so can you. With Windows 10 support coming to an end, millions of laptops are facing forced retirement.

Instead of consigning your aging PC to gather dust alongside your Amazon Fire Phone and Google Glass, you can install Google’s ChromeOS to give it a rejuvenated look, sprightly reactions, and a boosted immune system.

Google itself has designed a version of Chrome OS — dubbed ChromeOS Flex — specifically for installation on older laptops, and it comes with pretty much the same feature set as the operating system that's pre-installed on Chromebooks. As well as giving your hardware a new lease of life, it’s the perfect way to dip your toe in the Chrome ecosystem without shelling out for a top Chromebook.

I’ve got the perfect laptop for this task: a Windows 10-based Xiaomi Mi Laptop Air 13.3 from 2017, which still works perfectly but isn’t eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade. While I’ll lose some high-end features (such as gaming and video editing), I pretty much only use this laptop for Google Chrome and Google Docs anyway.

So, let’s prep this patient for an OS transplant…

Tools and requirements

• A Windows 10 laptop
• A USB drive or SD card with 8GB or more of storage
• A stable internet connection
• A Google account

Quick steps

1. Use the Chromebook Recovery Utility to create a ChromeOS Flex boot drive
2. Restart your PC and boot from the ChromeOS Flex USB drive
3. Try ChromeOS Flex on your PC
4. And, if you like it, install it

Step by step guide

How to turn a Windows 10 laptop into a Chromebook: FAQ

How to turn a Windows 10 laptop into a Chromebook: Final thoughts

ChromeOS isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade for your computer — it’s a whole new operating system which is constantly updated and filled with useful features. It does have limitations, but it’s a great alternative to Windows and the perfect way to keep your old hardware out of landfill.

ChromeOS Flex is based on Linux, the free operating system that changed the world. While ChromeOS keeps things simple, if you want to delve deeper into alternative operating systems, a lightweight Linux distro can give you lots more options for customization and a huge library of useful software.

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• 400 million PCs will need to be replaced to support Windows 11
• $2.42 billion in gold could be recovered from waste PCs
• PC shipments rise due to Windows 10 EOS

New research has looked into the possible environmental impacts of the upcoming Windows 10 end of life, which will see millions of devices needing to be upgraded.

With 400 million PCs globally set to retire due to a lack of hardware support for Windows 11 (and 14.4 million PCs in the UK alone), we could face huge challenges to recover 12.8 million kg of recoverable metals, including gold, copper, silver, platinum, palladium and indium.

As a result, an estimated £1.809 billion ($2.42 billion) could be recovered from just the core recycled metals, figures from Business Waste’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) researchers claims.

Windows 10 end of life costs

Business Waste claims a staggering £1.68 billion worth of gold could be recovered from retired devices, as well as £98.8 million in copper and £32.9 million in silver.

However, while some schemes exist to support responsible recycling (like the UK’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive), it’s unclear how many devices are actually getting recycled.

Regardless, Business Waste noted the need to upgrade to divert the blame away from consumers and enterprises. With older devices losing support, they’ll become more vulnerable to viruses and software glitches. Unsupported software will also become more of a problem as vendors adapt to newer OS versions.

Although some reluctance to upgrade remains, IDC tracked a 9.4% year-over-year increase in PC shipments during the third quarter of 2025 in readiness for Microsoft’s OS changes.

Senior Research Manager Maciek Gornicki also noted the end of a device refresh cycle from pre-pandemic purchases, propping up a proportion of sales.

More broadly, with the EEA gaining an extra year’s extended security updates (ESU), device upgrades and PC shipments could continue to grow for months to come.

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