Is Windows 8 still supported by Windows?

Support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. Support for Windows 8 ended on January 12, 2016, and support for Windows 8.1 has ended on January 10, 2023. Learn more.

Can I still use Windows 8 after 2023?

Will my Windows 8.1 computer stop working? No. Support for Windows 8.1 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. However, after January 10, 2023, your computer running Windows 8.1 will no longer receive security updates.

What happens when Windows 8 is no longer supported?

As a reminder, Windows 8.1 will reach the end of support on January 10, 2023. After this date, this product will no longer receive security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, or online technical content updates.

Can I upgrade Windows 8 to 10?

You can upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or a later operating system. This includes upgrading from one release of Windows 10 to later release of Windows 10.

Is Windows 8.1 still being supported?

Windows 8.1 follows the Fixed Lifecycle Policy. As a reminder, Windows 8.1 will reach the end of support on January 10, 2023. After this date, this product will no longer receive security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, or online technical content updates.

Should You Still Use Windows 8 (or 8.1)?

How do I upgrade from 8.1 to 10 for free?

To upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10, open Media Creation Tool, select “Upgrade this PC now,” and click Install. Yes, you can still upgrade for free since the Windows 8.1 product key will activate Windows 10. Although files and apps will be preserved, you still want to create a backup of your computer.

How can I upgrade my Windows 8.1 to 11 for free?

Install Windows 11

To check if Windows 11 is ready for your device, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If the upgrade is available for your device and you want to proceed, download and install it.

What should I upgrade to if I have Windows 8?

We recommend you move to a Windows 11 PC to continue to receive security updates from Microsoft. Windows 8 has reached end of support, which means Windows 8 devices no longer receive important security updates. We recommend making the free upgrade to Windows 8.1 to continue receiving security updates and support.

How to get Windows 10 for free?

How long does it take to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10?

The process will take about 2 hours, depending on the speed of the internet connection. After Windows 10 is downloaded, click Start the upgrade now in the Windows Update window to begin installation.

Should I stay with Windows 8.1 or upgrade to 10?

While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 8.1, without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at greater risk for viruses and malware. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported.

Why no one use Windows 8?

Windows 8's failure was a result of an amalgamation of design and usability issues. From the badly designed UI to the unjustified removal of staple features like the Start Button, Microsoft dropped the ball hard with its 2012 OS.

Is Windows 10 going to end of life?

Microsoft will continue to support at least one Windows 10 release until October 14, 2025. Support dates are shown in the Pacific Time Zone (PT) - Redmond, WA, USA.

Is Windows 8 too old?

Support for Windows 8.1 ends January 10, 2023.

What is the life span of Windows 8?

Support for Windows 8 ended on January 12, 2016, and support for Windows 8.1 has ended on January 10, 2023. Learn more.

Is Windows 7 going to end of life?

You will not be able to make any new app purchases or any in-app purchases after January 10, 2023. Installed apps and games will receive publisher updates through June 30, 2023 (or later if support is provided independently by the developer).

How much is Windows 10 license?

A Windows 10 Home download license costs $139, while Windows 10 Pro costs $199.99. However, visiting either purchase page reveals a note stating, "January 31, 2023 will be the last day this Windows 10 download is offered for sale.

Is Windows 11 free now?

How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? It's free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running the most current version of Windows 10 and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. You can check to see if you have the latest updates for Windows 10 in Settings/Windows Update.

Why is Microsoft giving Windows 10 for free?

But if Microsoft offering Windows for free means more people upgrading, developers will be able to work much faster and create better applications. That helps Microsoft because it's moving towards selling apps through its own store — allowing it to take a cut, just as Apple does.

Why Windows 8 is better than 10?

In other tests like booting, Windows 8.1 is faster than Windows 10, about 2 seconds. Performance in specific apps like Photoshop or Chrome is a bit slower in Windows 10. But Windows 10 can wake from Sleep and Hibernate mode more quickly than Windows 8.1.

Do I have to pay to upgrade from Windows 8 to Windows 10?

As a result, you can still upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 and claim a free digital license for the latest Windows 10 version, without being forced to jump through any hoops.

Why upgrade from Windows 8 to 10?

Considering an upgrade to Windows 10? Windows 10 brings you improved versions of the features you love in a familiar, easy-to-use package. With Windows 10 you can: Get comprehensive, built-in, and ongoing security protections to help keep you and your family safe.

How much does a Windows 11 cost?

Before anything else, the major difference between Windows 11 Home and Pro is pricing. If you want to buy a license by itself, the Windows 11 Home edition will cost $139.99, while Pro will cost $199.99. However, most laptops will just come with either one preinstalled.

How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11?

(Windows 11 is free for Windows 8 users.) After downloading and installing Windows 10, search and select Windows Update Setting and select Windows Updates. When a Windows 11 update is found, download the Windows 11 file and follow the prompts to install the new operating system.

How long do I have to upgrade to Windows 11 for free?

Here's the answer, per the FAQ: The free upgrade offer does not have a specific end date for eligible systems. However, Microsoft reserves the right to eventually end support for the free offer. This end date will be no sooner than October 5, 2022.