Microsoft Windows 11 is growing again (Image: MICROSOFT)
had a torrid time towards the end of 2024. Despite the end of looming, latest operating system actually lost ground to its ageing sibling. In fact, according to data from , Windows 11’s share of the all-important desktop market fell to just 34.12 percent during December, whilst Windows 10 jumped back up to 62.7 percent – that’s almost double.
With Microsoft warning of the impending issues for all Windows 10 users, it was a bizarre figure that made little sense, but things seem to be back on track for the firm’s most up-to-date OS.
Statcounter just released desktop figures for January, and Windows 11 users have grown to their biggest share yet, 36.35 percent. Windows 10 is now at its lowest installation rate ever, with 60.33 percent of all desktops still using this soon-to-be-unsupported software.
That’s still a pretty sizeable difference, but with just nine months to go until Microsoft stops releasing updates this latest news could finally show that people are switching.
HERE’S HOW THE WINDOWS GAP HAS CHANGED SINCE SEPTEMBER 2024
SEPTEMBER 2024Windows 10 (62.75%) • Windows 11 (33.42%)
OCTOBER 2024Windows 10 (60.95%) • Windows 11 (35.58%)
NOVEMBER 2024Windows 10 (61.83%) • Windows 11 (34.94%)
DECEMBER 2024Windows 10 (62.7%) • Windows 11 (34.12%)
JANUARY 2025Windows 10 (60.33%) • Windows 11 (36.35%)
Although there are still plenty of people who still love Windows 10, sticking with it could be a bad idea. Once October 14, 2025 arrives users will have to make some tough choices.
Either upgrade to Windows 11, buy a new PC or take their chances and continue using unsupported Windows 10.
That’s not something Microsoft advises, as it could leave PCs at serious risk of attack.
“Once a Microsoft operating system (OS) reaches the end of support, customers will no longer receive technical assistance, software updates, or security fixes. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported,” the company said in a recent update.
There is one other option. That’s to sign up for something called .
Microsoft says it will charge $30 (£24) per year with enrolled PCs then able to receive “Critical and Important security updates” for Windows 10.
Explaining more, Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President, Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Windows said: “We understand that some of you may require additional time while moving to a new Windows 11 PC or Copilot+ PC. During this period, you may wish to take steps to help secure your existing PC.
“For the first time ever, we’re introducing an ESU program for personal use as well. The ESU program for consumers will be a one-year option available for $30. Program enrollment will be available closer to the end of support in 2025.”