Windows 10 Persists: Unpatched Systems Pose Growing Security Threat
1 in 6 Windows devices still runs unupdated Windows 10, exposing businesses to cyber risks.
1Windows 10's Surprising Longevity
Lansweeper data shows 16.9% of Windows devices still run Windows 10 despite Microsoft ending mainstream support. The figure rises to 21.4% among SMBs, creating significant security vulnerabilities that many organizations underestimate.
2Healthcare Sector at Critical Risk
23% of healthcare and pharmaceutical systems remain on Windows 10, often due to medical devices lacking Windows 11 certification. This outdated software exposes sensitive patient data to potential breaches through unpatched vulnerabilities.
3Alarming Vulnerability Gap
Windows 10 devices average 1,903 active security flaws compared to 652 on Windows 11. Attackers can reverse-engineer Windows 11 patches to exploit Windows 10 systems, effectively using supported OS updates as a roadmap for attacks.
4ESU Adoption Remains Low
Only 14% of Windows 10 devices have installed Extended Security Updates, leaving the majority completely exposed to known vulnerabilities. Many organizations either can't afford ESU licenses or aren't aware of the risks.
5The Hard Migration Reality
Early adopters have already upgraded to Windows 11. What remains are 'hard core' systems that either can't meet hardware requirements or run specialized software incompatible with the new OS, making upgrades prohibitively expensive.
6Industrial Systems in Limbo
Many industrial control and retail systems lack Windows 11 certification from manufacturers, forcing continued use of outdated software. This creates long-term security risks for critical infrastructure with no clear upgrade path.
Original article: Slashdot — Windows 10 Kullanımı Devam Ediyor: Güvenlik Riskleri Artıyor