#Windows 8 end of support

Microsoft has announced that it will be ending support for Windows 8.1 on January 10, 2023. Microsoft stated that its end of support would mean that it will no longer provide software updates, security fixes, or technical support for Windows 8.1. This would also mean that Microsoft 365 Apps would no longer be supported on Windows 8 or Windows 8.1. [caption id="attachment_311707" align="alignnone" width="720"] Windows 8.1[/caption] And while you still technically could run Windows 8.1, it is recommended to update to a newer version of Windows as not updating puts your PC at greater risk for viruses and malware. [caption id="attachment_277771" align="alignnone" width="720"] Windows 11[/caption] But do note that upgrading to Windows 11 from Windows 8.1 is a massive leap and that Microsoft has even said on their Support Page that most Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 devices would not meet the hardware requirements in upgrading to Windows 11. An alternative would be to simply upgrade to Windows 10 before it reaches its end of suport date on October 14, 2025. To keep those legacy machines safe from potential threats, the tech giant introduced the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program last year, allowing personal account users to opt into continued patch coverage. Since Windows 10 was supposed to be retired at the end of 2025, the 1-year extension program was originally scheduled to reach its absolute end on October 12, 2026. Read more in our articles including "Microsoft announces end of support for Windows 8.1" and "Microsoft extends Windows 10 lifespan for another year... again".