- Microsoft to end support of Windows 8.1 in January 2023.
- This version will no longer receive security or maintenance updates after January 10.
- Computers running Windows 8.1 should upgrade to Windows 11 (or 10).
On January 10, 2023, Windows 8.1 officially ended support. This holds true for Windows 8.1 Home, Pro, and Enterprise, among other editions.
Devices running Windows 8.1 will be more vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues because Microsoft will no longer provide support after the support period has passed, even though you are free to keep using this version of the operating system.
Microsoft only offered business customers extra support for Windows 7 after its support expired through the Extended Security Update (ESU) program, which was paid for. With Windows 8.1, this won’t be the case, though. Updates for the operating system will stop after January 10, 2023. (If a significant vulnerability is discovered, the company may occasionally provide a few more updates within a grace period, but that’s about it.)
It is now advisable to update to the most recent version of Windows 10 if your PC is still running Windows 8.1. You should upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware satisfies the minimal requirements. Although Microsoft does not officially allow a free upgrade path, Windows 11 or 10 can probably be activated using the Windows 8.1 product key.
It is advised to replace the computer and move your files from the old device to the new one if the equipment does not satisfy the standards.