Computer experts are calling for a switch from the outdated Windows 10 software to a future-proof PC operating system. According to the security company Eset, 32 million computers in Germany are currently running Windows 10, which is only supported free of charge by Microsoft until October 14, 2025.
With the end of support, Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates: computers with Windows 10 will become more vulnerable to cyberattacks because new security gaps will no longer be closed. Users can also no longer expect free support from Microsoft if they have problems.
“It's five to twelve to avoid a security fiasco”
“It's five to twelve to avoid a security fiasco in 2025,” said IT security expert Thorsten Urbanski from Eset to the dpa. He strongly advises all users not to wait until October, but to switch to Windows 11 immediately to choose an alternative operating system if the device in question cannot be updated to the latest Windows operating system. “Otherwise, users expose themselves to significant security risks and make themselves vulnerable to dangerous cyberattacks and data loss.”
This time, users in Germany are comparatively late in switching to a modern and secure system. Urbanski pointed out that in the run-up to the comparable end of support for Windows 7 in 2020, a significantly higher proportion had already installed the then current Windows 10. Eset still lists over a million “Windows dinosaurs” that run completely outdated and insecure Windows versions 8.1, 8, 7 or even XP.
Support for Windows 10 is getting really expensive
Microsoft recommends switching to Windows 11 as long as the high hardware requirements are met. It is also possible to switch to the free Linux operating system or purchase a new Mac computer from Apple. Microsoft has announced that there will be extended paid support for Windows 10 after the October deadline. What is new is that private users can also buy this service, said Urbanski. “However, the costs are high and double with each year of use.”
