- Microsoft to end support of Windows 8.1 in January 2023.
- This version will no longer receive security or maintenance updates after January 10.
- Computers running Windows 8.1 should upgrade to Windows 11 (or 10).
Windows 8.1 officially reached the end of support on January 10, 2023. This applies to all editions, including Windows 8.1 Home, Pro, and Enterprise.
You may continue to use this version of the operating system, but Microsoft will no longer offer support after the end of the support date, meaning that devices running Windows 8.1 will be more exposed to security risks and compatibility problems.
When Windows 7 reached the end of support, Microsoft provided additional support for business customers only through the Extended Security Update (ESU) program for a fee. However, this will not be the case for Windows 8.1. After January 10, 2023, the operating system will no longer receive updates. (Sometimes, the company may offer a few additional updates during a grace period if a critical vulnerability is found, but that’s about it.)
If you have a computer still using Windows 8.1, it’s now a good idea to upgrade to the most recent version of Windows 10. In the case that the hardware meets the minimum requirements, you should upgrade to Windows 11. Officially, Microsoft doesn’t support a free upgrade path, but the Windows 8.1 product key will likely work to activate Windows 11 or 10.
If the device doesn’t meet the requirements, it’s recommended to replace the computer and then transfer your files from the old to the new device.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].