14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 8.1 has never been a hit, despite fixing so many problems in Windows 8. For instance, it brought back a Start button to the desktop after Microsoft somehow decided to let users figure out how to use the operating system without a Start button and a Start menu.
Now that Microsoft is going all-in on Windows 11, Windows 8.1 is also approaching its end, with the company planning to ship the last updates for the operating system in January.
In other words, Windows 8.1 is reaching the end of support, at which point all the vulnerabilities that are discovered in the operating system remain unfixed.
This is why it’s critical for users to update to a newer version of Windows, especially as the operating system versions out there share a similar codebase, and the vulnerabilities discovered in one of them typically affects the others as well.
WHEN
The end of support for Windows 8.1 will take place on January 10, 2023.
This is the first Patch Tuesday cycle of the next year, so Microsoft will ship the latest set of updates for Windows 8.1 Beginning on January 11, Windows 8.1 is considered unsupported, with no new updates to go live.
In addition, Microsoft would no longer offer software updates and technical support for any issue.
HOW
Microsoft wouldn’t ship any special updates or anything like that. Once the end-of-support date is reached, the company releases the last batch of security updates and that’s pretty much it. A computer that still runs Windows 8.1 after January 10, 2023 is considered unsupported.
Worth knowing is that Microsoft wouldn’t offer an ESU program this time, so not even companies can pay for extended security updates beyond this date.
“While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 8.1, without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at greater risk for viruses and malware. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported. A new device that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience,” Microsoft explains.
WHY
Leaving behind older versions of Windows allows Microsoft to focus on new technology exclusively available in the latest operating systems.
The company itself explains that Windows 11, which is the latest and greatest version of Windows right now, comes not only with plenty of new features but also with substantially improved security systems to protect users and their data.
“Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays, and ongoing updates to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost. To receive updates, internet access is required and service fees may apply,” Microsoft explains.
Needless to say, Microsoft uses this opportunity to push more users to Windows 11, so the company emphasizes the benefits of the latest operating system, including features like support for a digital pen. As a matter of fact, Windows 8 and then Windows 8.1 were the first operating systems that fully supported 2-in-1 devices and touch input.
“Windows 11 on a pen-capable PC or tablet allows you to use a digital pen to naturally write, draw, and sign just as you do on paper. You can mark up documents and even websites. The new pen menu can be customized with shortcuts to your favorite apps,” Microsoft explains in an attempt to praise Windows 11.