Microsoft is officially retiring Windows 8.1 and encouraging all users still running the operating system to switch to Windows 11.
Support for Windows 8.1 has ended. What can you do?
The tech giant is ending all support for the operating system, including technical assistance and software updates. Windows 8.1 is still in use, especially in the business sector, but now there is no choice but to upgrade.
This transition is already in effect, so Microsoft recommends upgrading devices to a "current, in-use, and supported" operating system. If your device can't run Windows 11, the company recommends replacing the device entirely.
Additionally, Microsoft does not offer an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 8.1, so businesses that continue to use it expose themselves to security risks and make it more difficult to meet compliance obligations. The company had used one of these programs to enable Windows 7 Enterprise users to migrate to a newer operating system.
