Why Millions of Windows 10 Business Devices Haven’t Upgraded Yet
With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, many organizations are racing against time to upgrade their systems. Yet, a recent ControlUp Windows 11 Readiness report reveals that nearly half of all Windows 10 business devices are still running the older operating system. While that’s a significant improvement from 2024, when over 80% of enterprise machines had not upgraded, the transition remains uneven across industries. If your organization hasn’t made the move yet, now is the time to act—especially before security risks and compliance issues arise.
Migration Challenges for Windows 10 Business Devices
Despite the looming deadline, many companies are facing serious hurdles in upgrading their Windows 10 business devices. The healthcare and finance sectors, in particular, are falling behind due to outdated hardware and strict software compatibility requirements. ControlUp’s analysis of over 1 million enterprise machines shows that nearly 19% of devices in healthcare cannot support Windows 11 without full hardware replacement. Meanwhile, industries like tech and education have made the most progress, with more than 70% of systems already upgraded.
Why Businesses Are Slow to Adopt Windows 11
So, what’s slowing down the upgrade process? The report indicates that enterprises are dealing with more than just technical issues—they’re also facing planning and resource challenges. According to Marcel Calef, ControlUp’s Americas Field CTO, hitting the 50% upgrade mark is a milestone, but it's far from enough. Some companies still don’t have a clear migration strategy in place. This is especially true in the Americas, where the upgrade rate lags behind other regions, despite many machines being technically eligible for the move.
How to Prepare Your Windows 10 Business Devices for 2025
If your organization is still relying on Windows 10 business devices, it’s crucial to take proactive steps now. Start with a full audit to assess hardware compatibility with Windows 11, prioritize critical systems, and build a phased migration plan. Upgrading is not just about staying current—it’s about improving system performance, enabling advanced security features, and ensuring ongoing support. Businesses that delay may face higher costs and increased cybersecurity risks in the coming year. Don’t wait—future-proof your infrastructure today.
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