If you’re a Windows 8.1 user like me, then you may have received a message from Microsoft that support for Windows 8.1 will end on January 10, 2023. What this means is that Microsoft will no longer provide technical assistance or software updates for this version of Windows.
If your device is running Windows 8.1, you will have to upgrade to a more current version such as Windows 10 or 11 as Windows 8.1 will no longer be supported. So how will the end of support of Windows 8.1 affect you as a user? Let’s explore what you need to know when this version of Windows reaches the end of support in the New Year.
What will happen to my device when Windows 8.1 reaches the end of support?
Currently, I am running Windows 8.1 on my laptop. Support for this version of Windows will end on January 10, 2023. This means that there will be no more technical assistance, software updates, or security updates for Windows 8.1. If I continue to use my laptop while running Windows 8.1, my device will be at a greater risk of getting viruses and malware.
I can still continue to use my laptop but I will not receive any technical support or security updates if Windows 8.1 malfunctions.
Can I upgrade to a current version of Windows on my current device?
You can upgrade to Windows 10 or 11, depending on if your current device meets the requirements to upgrade to one of these versions of Windows. If your laptop or PC meets the minimum requirements for Windows 10 or Windows 11, you can purchase and download a full version of Windows 10 or 11. However, it is highly recommended that you buy a new laptop or PC that already has Windows 10 or 11 installed.
You can read more about the end of support for Windows 8.1 and upgrade to a newer version of Windows by visiting the Microsoft website. Until then, I will continue to use Windows 8.1 until Christmas, hoping that I will get a new laptop with Windows 11 as a Christmas present.
