By Zak Doffman
Publication Date: 2026-01-17 06:19:00
It’s update time for hundreds of millions of you.
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It’s now 2026. After the false dusk of 2025, when Microsoft nearly killed Windows 10 but then relented by offering free security updates for all users, we have the next deadline. This time, we’re told, Windows 10 really will come to an end in October, 2026.
Meantime, the analyst data does not make pretty reading. It seems Windows 11 is still failing to win over the Windows 10 crowd. In fact, it’s even worse than that. While its accuracy will prompt debate, StatCounter says Windows 10’s market share has grown from 42% in October to 46% now. Windows 11 can’t get much beyond the 50% mark.
Microsoft confirms “you can enroll in ESU any time until the program ends on 13 October, 2026, however devices will be more vulnerable and susceptible to viruses and malware before enrollment. If you enroll after the ESU program launches,…
