On January 9, 2018, Windows 8.1 reached the end of mainstream support; nevertheless, the operating system has now surpassed extended support’s end. In a support document, Microsoft described the ramifications of that cutoff:
“As a reminder, Windows 8.1 will reach the 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.”
After 10 years, the controversial operating system is riding off into the sunset.
Windows 8 was so different from Windows 7 that, pardon the pun, it was bound to fail. It was unpopular to force tablets, laptops, and desktops into the same interface, so Microsoft has spent years making Windows look attractive and function well across a variety of form factors.
Computers running Windows 8.1 will continue to work after today, but they will no longer receive security updates.
What you must understand is that this is the official end. Although the operating system sought to address many of the problems brought on by Windows 8, it was ultimately negatively received by customers in general.
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PCs running Windows 8.1 that meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, may be upgraded for free to Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Although the OS had its detractors, many people disliked Windows 8.1. One of its strengths, according to many, is its tablet-specific capabilities. For those who like Live Tiles, the Start menu was stunning and adaptable. The second version of a new design that attempted to give Windows more vitality was Windows 8.1. At least in the eyes of the general public, it wasn’t exactly successful, but at least Microsoft tried.