Microsoft Plans to End Support for Windows 10 – Millions of PCs at Risk

Germany could be on the brink of a major cybersecurity crisis with millions of computers still running Windows 10, an operating system set to lose official support on October 14, 2025.

Startling figures reveal that around 65 percent of German households, or approximately 32 million devices, are still using the operating system.

In contrast, Microsoft’s newer operating system, Windows 11, currently accounts for just 33 percent of devices—or about 16.5 million computers.

Alarmingly, over one million users continue to rely on even older, unsupported systems like Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, or the long-outdated Windows XP.

IT Experts Warn of “Five Minutes to Midnight”

Thorsten Urbanski, an IT security expert from ESET, has sounded the alarm, urging users and businesses to act swiftly.

“It’s five minutes to midnight if we are to avoid a security fiasco in 2025,” Urbanski said.

He strongly advised users to switch to Windows 11 or consider alternative operating systems, such as Linux, without delay.

“Waiting until October 2025 is risky,” Urbanski explained. “Outdated systems are prime targets for cyberattacks, data theft, and ransomware.

Businesses must prepare early, as extending support is costly and running unsupported systems is grossly negligent.

Such systems are highly vulnerable and can even serve as starting points for widespread cyber threats and espionage.”

Urbanski further warned that insurance companies could refuse to cover damages if businesses fail to adhere to industry security standards.

“More Dangerous Than the End of Windows 7”

Comparing the current scenario to when Windows 7 support ended in January 2020, Urbanski highlighted the heightened risks.

By late 2019, less than 20 percent of users were still on Windows 7, while over 70 percent had already transitioned to Windows 10.

“The current situation is far worse,” Urbanski cautioned. “Cybercriminals are well aware of these statistics and are eagerly waiting for the end-of-support date for Windows 10. The scenario is a ticking time bomb.”

Risks for Individuals and Businesses

Without security updates after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 devices will become highly vulnerable to cyberattacks and malware.

Sensitive information such as passwords and bank details could be exposed, making users easy targets for criminal hackers.

The issue extends to businesses as well. Outdated systems not only pose data protection risks and legal consequences but also disrupt software compatibility, leading to reduced productivity.

Organizations still relying on Windows 10 beyond its support deadline risk vulnerabilities that might be exploited to attack enterprise networks.

While Microsoft has announced paid extended support for Windows 10, even for private users, the costs will increase significantly each year.

Experts argue that transitioning to Windows 11 or other operating systems is a more sustainable and secure long-term solution.

ESET’s Cybersecurity Recommendations

To help mitigate risks, cybersecurity experts have provided the following tips:

1. Upgrade Immediately: Transition to Windows 11 or consider an alternative operating system like Linux, especially for older devices not compatible with Windows 11. Avoid outdated operating systems like Windows 7 or XP, as they pose severe security risks.
2. Ensure Regular Updates: Always keep your operating system, firmware, and software up to date. Enable automatic updates and check periodically for new patches.
3. Install Security Software: Use comprehensive internet security solutions with features like exploit blockers and cloud-based protection layers to defend against both known and emerging threats.
4. Limit Administrative Rights: Use restricted accounts for day-to-day activities and reserve administrative access for essential tasks only.
5. Regular Backups: Safeguard your data by performing regular backups to external drives or secure cloud storage to prepare for potential attacks or system failures.

The DACH Region’s Security Landscape

Germany isn’t the only country in the region relying heavily on Windows 10, with Austria and Switzerland also reporting significant usage at 63 percent and 56 percent, respectively.

Across the broader DACH region, more than 35 million devices are still using Windows 10, all of which risk becoming vulnerable after October 2025.The clock is ticking for German households and businesses.

With over 32 million devices still dependent on Windows 10—and adversaries ready to exploit vulnerabilities post-support—experts warn that delaying upgrades could lead to a wave of cyberattacks, data breaches, and financial losses.

Transitioning early to Windows 11 or secure alternatives is now more critical than ever to ensure protection in an increasingly hostile digital landscape.

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