If Windows 8.1 will continue to work on computers that still use its services, the Operating System (OS) will become more vulnerable than ever. Explanations.
+ Video: the launch trailer for Windows 8.1 in October 2013:
Two phases then the end of support
Each version of Windows is associated with a life cycle punctuated by two essential phases:
- Le support standard.
- Extended support.
The support standard is the phase during which Microsoft actively supports the use and development of the operating system. The Redmond (USA) company regularly injects new features and corrections, in addition to the essential patches and security patches.
If the duration of the standard support is sometimes variable, mainly depending on the popularity of the OS, that of the support extended is generally limited to five years. It’s a kind of phase of slow euthanasia during which Microsoft is satisfied with the bare minimum. Only updates that close security vulnerabilities remain.
Hackers on the prowl
After extended support, it is the end of support, a clinical death that Windows 8.1 will experience on January 10, 2023. From this date, Windows 8.1, launched in October 2013, will no longer benefit from the slightest correction supposed to ensure his safety.
This is often the time hackers choose to place attacks through doors stolen which will remain forever open.
A respite until October 2025
To avoid this worst-case scenario, Microsoft advises you to migrate on Windows 11 or on Windows 10 if your machine is not compatible with the latest version of the operating system.
“Most Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 devices will not meet the hardware requirements for upgrading to Windows 11,” Microsoft concedes. “As an alternative, Windows 8 and 8.1 compatible PCs can be upgraded to Windows 10 by purchasing and installing a full version of the software. Before investing in an upgrade to Windows 10, please consider that Windows 10 will no longer be supported starting October 14, 2025.”
As Microsoft points out, Windows 10 will in turn be abandoned from October 14, 2025.
