Windows 8: When Will Support End? What To Do Afterwards?

End of regular support	End of extended support
January 9, 2018	January 10, 2023

That means you can still use Windows 8 with a clear conscience until January 10, 2023.

Here you can see when the support for Windows 7 expires.

What happens when regular support ends?

• Microsoft then only delivers security updates for Windows 8. Recommended, optional or important updates are omitted.
• There is only paid support and no more free support.
• Requests to change the design and features of Windows 8 are no longer accepted.

What happens when extended support ends?

Microsoft discontinues all support. There are no more updates and no support. There may be an exception for companies that then have to pay for further Windows 8 support.

	Regular support	Extended support
Security updates	✔	✔
Recommended, optional, important updates	✔	X
Free support	✔	X
Paid support	✔	✔
Request to change product design and features	✔	X

Source: Microsoft

What should I do after Windows 8 ends support?

No internet use

Since Windows 8 will no longer receive security updates from January 10, 2023, the longer you use it, the more unsafe the operating system becomes. If you run the Windows 8 computer without the Internet, the dangers are significantly lower. Then there were only possible infections of viruses and worms via storage media such as USB sticks and CDs.

Continue using Windows 8 (with Internet)

If you decide to continue using Windows 8 after the end of support, you should definitely activate the firewall and keep your virus scanner up to date.

Switch to Windows 10 or Linux for free

Otherwise, you can still upgrade to Windows 10 for free. If you don't like Windows 10, you can consider switching to Linux. Our picture series shows which Linux operating systems are suitable for beginners:

Start photo gallery (4 photos)

I also switched to Linux Mint in February 2019 and am very satisfied. Here are the best tips and tricks. What do you do when Windows 8 support expires? Let us know in the comment section below this article.

What was your first operating system? (whether desktop or mobile)

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