The high total cost of ownership of Windows has been a contentious issue for many years, and there are several reasons why the operating system can be an expensive choice for both individuals and businesses.

One of the biggest factors contributing to the high total cost of ownership of Windows is the cost of licensing. Windows is a proprietary operating system, which means that users must purchase a license to use it. The cost of licensing can be significant, especially for businesses with multiple computers, and it can quickly add up over time. Additionally, the licensing terms for Windows can be complex and confusing, making it difficult for many individuals and organizations to understand the true cost of ownership.

Another factor that contributes to the high total cost of ownership of Windows is the cost of End of Life support. When Microsoft ends support for a particular version of Windows, users are often left with an outdated and potentially vulnerable operating system that is no longer receiving security updates or bug fixes. This can put the user's data and security at risk, and the cost of upgrading to a newer version of Windows or switching to another operating system can be substantial.

The cost of cleaning up malware is another factor that can add to the total cost of ownership of Windows. Windows is one of the most popular targets for cybercriminals and is frequently targeted by malware and viruses. While security software can help to mitigate the risk of infection, cleaning up malware can still be a time-consuming and expensive process, especially for businesses and individuals with a large number of computers.

Finally, it's worth noting that Windows is often criticized for being inefficient, buggy, and running up your power bill. The operating system is known to consume significant amounts of system resources, which can slow down computers and contribute to higher energy bills. Additionally, bugs and glitches are not uncommon in Windows, and fixing these issues can require a significant investment of time and resources.

In conclusion, the high total cost of ownership of Windows is a complex issue that involves many different factors, including licensing costs, the cost of End of Life support, the cost of cleaning up malware, and the inefficiencies and bugs that can impact the performance and stability of the operating system. While Windows remains one of the most popular operating systems in the world, it's important for individuals and businesses to carefully consider the total cost of ownership before making a decision to use Windows as their primary operating system.