More than two and a half years ago, Microsoft withdrew support for Windows 7, with some exceptions. But those from Redmond maybe reconsideraccording to information that has just been released, which would extend the life of the operating system for up to another three years.

recap, Windows 7 said goodbye to everyone at the beginning of 2020… Or rather not all of them. Microsoft has extended system support for three years, but only for professional users. This extension should therefore end at the beginning of next year. January 2023 to be exact.

However, they hunted some changes in the code of the monthly updates I have Windows 7 (from Extended Security Update as it only receives security patches) which would confirm the aforementioned extension until January 7, 2026. All conditional as the company has not announced it yet.

Despite this, two of July update for Windows 7 ESUs contain, on the one hand, an explicit indication of the extension of support in the license, on the other hand, a maintenance guarantee until the last mentioned date is sufficient evidence, or should be, that this is not a rumor or an unfounded assumption.

However, it is up to Microsoft to confirm this point as appropriate. Meanwhile, on the Windows Support Information page, January 10, 2023 remains the latest date for Windows 7 to be retired for good.

It goes without saying that support for Windows 7 will be extended for another three years aimed at the professional sector but many home users take advantage of this and keep their system up to date using “alternative” methods. A user who could continue to benefit from it, of course.

According to estimates by market statistics companies such as Statcounter, Windows 7 would currently retain about 12% market share and that is many millions of people, regardless of whether the percentage of home users is more or less significant.

Now, things as they are: the agony is more or less ongoing, Windows 7 is out of retirement… and it has its replacements. Not one, but two: Windows 10, basically with support until 2025, so the recommended choice for those looking for more stability; and Windows 11, although Microsoft isn’t making it easy for the masses to upgrade.

In case you’re wondering, Microsoft isn’t considering anything like that with Windows 8.1.