Microsoft announces end of support for Windows 8.1

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.

Windows 8.1

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.

Windows 8.1 users will now either need to decide to upgrade their operating system or simply buy a new PC.

Windows 11

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.

Windows 10

To learn how you can update and install Windows 10 or 11, you may visit Microsoft’s Website by checking out their published list of FAQs for Windows 8.1 users.