Windows 8.1 will be ten years old next year, so this means: it will soon become an old operating system. On January 10, 2023, Microsoft will end extended support for this release, definitively closing its lifecycle and reducing its compatibility and security as a result.

According to Statista data, Windows 8.1 is currently found on approximately 3% of computers running Microsoft operating systems. We’re not facing a high market share as it’s probably not one of the most loved versions, but for those still using it, here’s the news.

Microsoft bids farewell to Windows 8.1

As many of you already know, Microsoft replaced the traditional update program with Windows 8. service pack Redmond decided to launch Windows 8.1 to update the operating system. The update attempted to fix some major issues affecting the system.

At the time, most users were dissatisfied with Windows 8, and consultants like Gartner advised companies not to upgrade to Windows 8.1, but instead to stay with Windows 7 or wait for Windows 10 to come out. Let’s see how this operating system will affect users.

Windows 8.1 will stop receiving updates on January 10, 2023 security, quality updates and bug fixes. What does it mean? Mainly in the increase in security risks. And it doesn’t matter if you have antivirus software. Certain security patches that fix vulnerabilities in the system will not come.

While Windows 8.1 will continue to run most pre-installed programs, many newer programs will require later versions such as Windows 10 and Windows 11 to run. This is often because developers only use resources available in the latest versions to run their programs. operating systems.

When it comes to technical support, users will no longer have access to the support options available online, but they are mainly aimed at enterprise customers. Limitations will also exist at the hardware level. PSome new components may not work with Windows 8.1 and if it works, don’t do it 100%.

Microsoft explains that Windows 8.1 will also lose the ability to install new apps from the Microsoft Store starting January 10, 2023. This means users can download and continue using apps they already have, not new ones. In any case, app updates via the Microsoft Store (including third-party developers) will be discontinued on June 30, 2023.

As we’ve seen, there are certain risks to staying on Windows 8.1 after support has ended. the ideal upgrade to a version of Windows that still has an active lifecycle. Here we find ourselves with two options: Windows 10 and Windows 11. In the first case, Microsoft offered free updates for a long time, but this alternative is no longer available.

The same goes for Windows 11. There is no way to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Microsoft’s latest operating system for free. In this sense, the options are limited to obtaining a new license or purchasing a new computer for some of the operating systems mentioned above. If Windows 10 is preferred, it should be noted that this operating system will be supported until October 14, 2025.

Images: Microsoft | Wikimedia Commons

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