Microsoft's Windows 11 adoption has reached an all-time high in Germany. In January 2025, statistics revealed a significant spike in Windows 11 installations, with devices running the latest OS reaching 35.2% of the Windows market share in the region. Yet, despite these strides forward, most users continue to hold onto Windows 10 for now, which accounts for about 62.3% of active installations. Let’s unpack this evolving story and what it means for you.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Windows 11’s rise comes at the expense of its predecessor, Windows 10, which saw its share plummet to 62.3%—the lowest since April 2019. Meanwhile, older versions like Windows 7, though dwindling, still hold a tiny stronghold at 1.5%.
If you’re curious about why Swiss numbers lean heavier on Windows 11 adoption compared to their neighbors, geography might not be the only reason: The Swiss IT industry often embraces cutting-edge technology faster, with businesses traditionally more inclined to provide their users with updated systems.
Key Drivers Behind the Shift
Security-wise, Windows 11 has significantly upticked its rules on compliance. Features like secure boot, enhanced user control, Windows Hello biometrics login, and seamless cloud integration make it abundantly clear: Microsoft is drawing a big red line between today’s threats and tomorrow’s defenses.
However, don’t be fooled—most of these powerful security options are not automatically activated upon install. IT administrators must configure these tools for maximum protection. For enterprise environments feeling overwhelmed, workshops like Christian Biehler’s "Securing Windows 11 for Enterprises" highlight strategies to harden vulnerabilities and combat insider risks.
Ask yourself:
Source: heise online https://www.heise.de/en/news/Windows-11-on-the-upswing-majority-continue-to-use-Windows-10-10267647.html
Windows 11 Adoption Milestones: Big Gains, But The Road Ahead is Long
StatCounter’s analysis paints a picture of dynamic change. From December 2024 to January 2025 alone, Windows 11 saw an impressive 12.9% increase in its user base in Germany. This is the highest growth rate observed for the OS since its launch. And it’s not just Germany; Austria saw adoption jump to 34.6% (up by 11.3%), while Switzerland saw even stronger momentum, with Windows 11 securing a 44.8% foothold of the Windows ecosystem.But here’s where it gets interesting: Windows 11’s rise comes at the expense of its predecessor, Windows 10, which saw its share plummet to 62.3%—the lowest since April 2019. Meanwhile, older versions like Windows 7, though dwindling, still hold a tiny stronghold at 1.5%.
If you’re curious about why Swiss numbers lean heavier on Windows 11 adoption compared to their neighbors, geography might not be the only reason: The Swiss IT industry often embraces cutting-edge technology faster, with businesses traditionally more inclined to provide their users with updated systems.
Key Drivers Behind the Shift
- Impending End-of-Life for Windows 10: With Microsoft pulling the plug on free security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, users are being nudged—politely but persistently—toward an upgrade. Businesses, in particular, are starting to grapple with inventory and upgrade planning.
- Enterprise Pressure: Organizations, weary of juggling temporary fixes, appear to be leading the charge in Windows 11 rollouts, likely to avoid costly support fees tied to keeping Windows 10 beyond 2025.
- Hardware Evolutions: Windows 11 mandates stringent system requirements—such as TPM 2.0 support and newer CPUs. Many users upgrading their hardware are transitioning to Windows 11 by default.
- Integrating Next-Gen Features: Microsoft’s focus on services like Copilot AI—an embedded artificial intelligence assistant—has many tech enthusiasts intrigued. Such features not only improve user experience but also drive adoption by businesses interested in modernizing workflows.
So Why Is Windows 10 Hanging On For Dear Life?
For all its advancements, Windows 11 hasn’t managed to overthrow Windows 10 just yet—and for good reason.- Familiarity & Stability: Users (especially in the business world) are creatures of habit. Why replace what’s not broken? Windows 10 has earned a reputation for stability after years of updates and tweaks. Large companies, in particular, rely heavily on thoroughly vetted systems to avoid disruptions.
- Hardware Constraints: Not all devices make the jump so easily. Windows 11’s minimum hardware requirements have left older systems stuck on Windows 10. While tech enthusiasts might eagerly buy new TPM 2.0-capable hardware, the average household or small business might hesitate due to cost barriers.
- Cost of Change: Companies balancing tight IT budgets may see upgrading as a grueling process requiring time, money, training, and resources. It’s not just a matter of installing new software—it’s weeks or months of testing, migrating data, and training employees on potential changes in functionality.
- Optional Security Extensions: Microsoft has sweetened the interim timeline by offering paid security updates for Windows 10 (beginning October 2025). Think of it as life support for those unwilling or unable to migrate immediately:
- Corporate customers fork out $61 per device annually, with a trickle-down plan for up to three additional years.
- Private users get a somewhat easier deal of $30 for a one-time, one-year fix.
A Sneak Peek Into Windows 11’s Ecosystem: Cutting-Edge AI and Elevated Security
What sets Windows 11 apart from its predecessor is its foundational integration of AI-driven tools to revolutionize how you interact with your machine. Microsoft’s Copilot AI is the hallmark of this shift, aiming to bring robust efficiency to everyday tasks—like generating ideas in Word, managing schedules with Outlook, or simplifying complex Excel reports.Did You Know?
Microsoft is also pushing devices with dedicated ARM CPUs and AI processors—which could arguably help Windows transition toward a lighter, more energy-efficient future. Even core system apps like Microsoft Paint are getting AI upgrades, bringing features akin to Photoshop-like magic right onto a beginner’s canvas!Security-wise, Windows 11 has significantly upticked its rules on compliance. Features like secure boot, enhanced user control, Windows Hello biometrics login, and seamless cloud integration make it abundantly clear: Microsoft is drawing a big red line between today’s threats and tomorrow’s defenses.
However, don’t be fooled—most of these powerful security options are not automatically activated upon install. IT administrators must configure these tools for maximum protection. For enterprise environments feeling overwhelmed, workshops like Christian Biehler’s "Securing Windows 11 for Enterprises" highlight strategies to harden vulnerabilities and combat insider risks.
Future-Proof the Right Way: Should You Upgrade?
If you’re staring at the calendar and wringing your hands over Windows 10’s looming end-of-life date, breathe easy—you still have time. But make no mistake! Ignoring the inevitable upgrade could leave your machine vulnerable to cyberattacks or locked out of crucial app updates.Ask yourself:
- Do I use devices compliant with Windows 11's hardware requirements?
- Am I ready for the learning curve or investment of upgrading?
- Can my organization stomach temporary IT downtime?
TL;DR: Where Things Stand in 2025
- Windows 11 Adoption: Surging, now representing 35.2% in Germany, with Switzerland outpacing its neighbors.
- Windows 10’s Survival: Still robust but dwindling as users face hardware obstacles and dread the October 2025 deadline.
- Microsoft’s Gambit: Copilot AI, enhanced security features, and AI processors on the horizon for Windows 11 boost its appeal.
- Your Move: Assess your readiness, budget for possible updates, and plan carefully—October 14, 2025, will arrive faster than you think!
Source: heise online https://www.heise.de/en/news/Windows-11-on-the-upswing-majority-continue-to-use-Windows-10-10267647.html
