Brace yourselves, businesses! New research suggests that extending support for Windows 10 could cost enterprises a staggering $7.3 billion worldwide as Microsoft approaches its deadline for the operating system.

Analysis from Nexthink reveals that while companies have the option to pay for extended support, the cost starts at $61 per device in the first year and skyrockets to $122 in the second year, ultimately doubling every year for up to three years. It’s a financial nightmare waiting to happen!

Despite a noticeable shift away from Windows 10, Nexthink's data shows a slow decline, with a 33% drop in devices from May to August this year. However, Windows 10 still holds a significant 43% of the market share, even as Windows 11 gains ground.

Numbers indicate that as of the looming October 14 deadline, approximately 121 million devices could still be clinging to Windows 10 globally. This slow migration raises eyebrows—why are so many businesses hesitating to upgrade?

Staying on Windows 10? Beware the Risks!

Continuing with Windows 10 brings substantial risks. Nexthink warns that companies sticking with the outdated OS may expose themselves to escalating cyber threats like malware and ransomware attacks.

Moreover, not upgrading can severely hamper productivity. Nexthink reports that partial upgrades can lead to inconsistencies across teams, negatively impacting collaboration and efficiency.

Tim Flower, a digital employee experience strategist at Nexthink, emphasizes that transitioning to a new operating system should be viewed not as a disruption but as an opportunity for improvement. He states, "Understanding device and application performance before migration is critical to ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing productivity. It’s all about reaping the benefits from your investment!"

For businesses still navigating these waters, the urgency to act is palpable. As Windows 10's end-of-life deadline rapidly approaches, organizations must adopt a proactive approach to avoid costly pitfalls and ensure their operations remain secure and efficient.