January 10, 2023 – This is the date Microsoft will make the last bug fix in Windows 8.1. After that, there is no support from Microsoft employees and no further software fixes. Not even to seal security breaches.
upgrade recommendations
The long-announced end of Windows 8.1 also affects other software. Microsoft supports Office only to a limited extent or not at all. Office 2013 and 2016 can still be supported, but only if the issues that occur cannot be traced back to the underlying Windows system. For Office 2019 and newer versions up to Microsoft 365, there is no support for Windows 8.1, as well as Windows 8 and Windows 7. even whole. Purchases and installations from the Microsoft Store will no longer be possible in Windows 8.1 starting January 10.
Microsoft suggests that Windows 8.1 users upgrade their system to a newer, more compatible version of Windows, such as 10 or 11. As long as older systems, still running Windows 8.1, are compatible with newer Windows. If not, you should get a new computer. Microsoft recommends.
From a security perspective, switching to a supported operating system is the best option. Microsoft explains that there is no longer an official free upgrade path from Windows 8.1 to 10 or 11. So another alternative would be to back up your data and switch to a Linux distribution, for example. The c’t network plan helps you find the right layout that best suits your needs.
Windows 8.1 administrators now have around a month to convert affected systems. So it’s high time to think about the best option and implement it quickly.
(DMK)
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