People who are still using Windows 8.1 from next month will be warned that Microsoft will stop supporting the operating system from January 10, 2023. ZDNet†
The notifications Windows 8.1 users receive are similar to those in Windows 7. Microsoft discontinued this in 2020. People can choose to receive notifications again at a later time, but they can also click away.
It is unknown how many people are still using Windows 8.1. This operating system follows the poorly received Windows 8 in 2013. Windows 8 focused on touch controls and removed the start button from the menu. After many complaints from users, these innovations were largely undone in Windows 8.1.
After January 10, 2023, there will also be no rollover of Windows 8.1 Security Updates. Microsoft advises people to switch to Windows 11. Windows 10 is also an option. This program will be supported until October 14, 2025.
Computers owned by people who don’t upgrade to a newer version of Windows won’t suddenly stop working. They no longer receive new software and security updates, which puts them even more at risk of data breaches and hacking attacks.