Windows 11 Surpasses One Billion Users: A Closer Look
In a notable announcement, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella revealed that Windows 11 has achieved the impressive milestone of one billion users. This figure, however, invites scrutiny and raises questions about the specifics behind the numbers. Nadella refrained from clarifying whether this count refers to daily active users, the ratio of new hardware versus upgrades, or the overall user mix. Additionally, he did not disclose how many devices remain on Windows 10 or are participating in the Extended Security Updates program.
What stands out is the reported 45 percent year-on-year increase in users. A quick analysis indicates that Windows 11 has reached this significant benchmark faster than its predecessor, Windows 10. However, several factors contribute to this trend. The recent end of support for various Windows 10 versions in October likely spurred many users to transition to the new operating system.
Moreover, Windows 11’s ascent could have been even more rapid if not for its stringent hardware compatibility requirements. These requirements have hindered many Windows 10 devices from upgrading, often necessitating new hardware purchases.
Microsoft previously attributed its failure to meet a self-imposed target of one billion Windows 10 devices by 2018 to the struggles of Windows Phone. In contrast, Windows 11 is not burdened by such legacy issues but faces challenges from hardware compatibility and a general reluctance among users to embrace the latest operating system.
The expiration of support for Windows 10 has compelled most holdouts to either upgrade to Windows 11 or enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. While Microsoft has not provided specific figures for the ESU program, industry analysts suggest that many enterprises have already budgeted for hardware replacements or ESU costs in anticipation of the October 2025 deadline for free Windows 10 updates.
Despite the complexities surrounding these numbers, the milestone of one billion users is a positive development for Microsoft and those invested in Windows 11. However, it is worth noting that the Windows ecosystem has faced challenges in early 2026, particularly with multiple out-of-band releases following January’s Patch Tuesday security update.
