Microsoft is intensifying its alerts for the vast community of Windows users who are on the brink of a significant cyber threat as their PCs cease to receive essential security updates. The remedy lies in a complimentary upgrade to Windows 11, which the tech giant touts as a substantial enhancement in security. However, despite the rising adoption of this free upgrade, a staggering 240 million users remain at risk, needing to explore alternative solutions before the deadline approaches.
Exploring Alternatives
Microsoft envisions that the ideal alternative is a Copilot+ PC, which integrates necessary security upgrades along with Recall, a tool designed for efficient screenshot management. The company is particularly keen on encouraging users without sufficiently modern PCs to transition to Windows 11. This upgrade necessitates a TPM 2.0 security module, which serves as a crucial link between hardware and software, fortifying defenses against potential cyber threats.
For those still operating on Windows 10, it’s advisable to verify whether their systems are eligible for an upgrade at this time.
On a positive note for Microsoft, the momentum of its free upgrade initiative is gaining traction, with reports indicating that by the end of April, the adoption rate had reached a new peak. In the United States, Windows 11 has already surpassed Windows 10 in terms of usage; however, this trend has not yet mirrored globally. Windows 10 continues to hold a significant lead in many regions, but recent data from Statcounter suggests that the transition from the older version to the newer one is steadily progressing.
While Windows 11 has yet to surpass Windows 10 on a global scale, the gap has narrowed to within 10% for the first time, a remarkable shift from over 40% just a year ago. Currently, over half (53%) of all Windows users are still on Windows 10, although this percentage is gradually declining. Windows 11’s adoption has climbed to 44%, yet it faces an impending threshold as the free upgrade offer nears its conclusion. This raises a pressing concern for the more than 240 million users who cannot upgrade and may need to either invest for a year’s extension or purchase a new PC.
Regrettably, the more probable scenario is that these users may find themselves unsupported, opting to “wing it.” In the realm of Windows, this is a precarious strategy—one fraught with risks. Last year witnessed an unprecedented number of patched vulnerabilities, and no user should be willing to jeopardize their PC and personal data by remaining unprotected. It is crucial to consider safer alternatives.
When making a choice, it’s also wise to eliminate passwords from your Microsoft account, transitioning to passkeys, which are now the default for new accounts. This week, Microsoft has made headlines by signaling the end of passwords, marking a significant shift in its security approach.
