Microsoft Windows 8.1 support ends in January 2023

Microsoft Windows 8.1 support

If you are still on older version of Windows, specifically v8.1, this news is important for you. There is little reason on not upgrading to Windows 10 though since the upgrade was made available for free to all existing Windows 10 and 8.x users.

Windows 8.1 will end support on January 10, 2023 and continued use of Windows 8.1 will expose your organization to security risks and impact your ability to meet compliance obligations, as technical assistance and software updates including Extended Security Updates ESU will no longer be available. So, if you’re still using Windows 10 or Windows 8.1, upgrade now or you will prone to security threats.

The software itself will continue to work, but you won’t be able to buy new apps and games from the Microsoft Store or make in-app purchases. Software already installed will continue to work, but will only receive updates from the publisher until June 30, 2023 or later if the developer provides individual support.

Due to the increased risk of virus and malware infections, Microsoft recommends upgrading to later versions of Windows, as well as moving to newer devices that can run the latest Windows 11.

Windows 10 can be installed on most devices that can run Windows 8.1, and support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. If you can meet the minimum system requirements of Windows 11, you can upgrade to it, but it is unlikely that you will meet the requirements for reasons such as TPM 2.0 compatibility.