Microsoft has now officially ended support for Windows 8.1. The operating system has not received any security updates since January 10th, as the company reports. It is said that further use of Windows 8.1 represents a high security risk.
And further: “If you have devices running Windows 8.1, we recommend updating them to a more recent […] Windows version”. This can be the successor Windows 10, for example, if the devices do not meet the technical requirements for the current Windows 11 version.
Users can find out whether the PC meets the hardware requirements of Windows 11 with Microsoft’s “App for the PC integrity check”, which can be downloaded here. And here you will find installation instructions for Microsoft’s current operating system.
Back up personal data before updating
For older computers: Before upgrading to Windows 10, users should back up their personal data to a storage medium outside of the PC, such as an external hard drive.
The upgrade assistant to Windows 10 can then be downloaded from Microsoft. This starts with a double click. Users should then follow the further instructions of the program.
The Windows license key, which is usually on a sticker on the computer housing, is still valid.
According to Microsoft, support for Windows 10 Home and Pro will end on October 14, 2025. That means: Until then, Windows computers will continue to receive major function updates every six months. An extension of the deadline is quite possible.
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