If your PC is on Windows 8.1, Microsoft wants to remind you that Windows 8.1 will reach end of support on January 10, 2023. This means you won’t receive monthly security and quality updates going forward. Even any technical assistance won’t be provided to Windows 8.1 running PCs beyond EOL date.
The update to be released in January 2023 will be the last security update for Windows 8.1. Microsoft has clarified about the status of Windows 8.1 on its official page. Microsoft will not be offering an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 8.1.
Windows 8.1 support will end on January 10, 2023
As a reminder, Windows 8.1 will reach end of support on January 10, 2023, at which point technical assistance and software updates will no longer be provided. If you have devices running Windows 8.1, we recommend upgrading them to a more current, in-service, and supported Windows release. If devices do not meet the technical requirements to run a more current release of Windows, we recommend that you replace the device with one that supports Windows 11. Microsoft will not be offering an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 8.1. Continuing to use Windows 8.1 after January 10, 2023 may increase an organization’s exposure to security risks or impact its ability to meet compliance obligations.
What does end of support mean?
As of January 10, 2023, computers running Windows 8.1 will still function, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:
- Technical support of any issue
- Software updates
- Security updates or fixes
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 has also clarified that there is no free upgrade to Windows 10 and Windows 11 options available “officially” for Windows 8.1 users.
Are there free options to upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11?We do not currently offer free upgrade paths from Windows 8.1 to either Windows 10 or Windows 11. If you want to purchase a copy of Windows 10 or Windows 11, please see links above or contact a retailer to find out about options. Note: the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is currently free.
