If you’re still using a computer that runs Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, it’s really time to move on. As a reminder, Windows 7 reached its end of life in January 2020. However, Microsoft offered a reprieve to those who remained on this old version of Windows by offering an extension of the paid support (intended for companies dependent on this OS) for three years.

But today, the paid extension for Windows 7 has also ended, so Microsoft no longer fixes bugs or security issues. Additionally, Microsoft will stop offering new versions of its Edge browser on Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. And you won’t be able to rely on Google either, since Chrome will also stop supporting these versions of Windows.

As for Windows 8.1, it has reached its end of life. And unlike Windows 7, this version of the operating system will not be entitled to a support extension (which would have been paid for anyway). In essence, run away from these two versions of Windows, which you will no longer be able to use safely.

What options?

The ideal, if you are on an old machine running Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, is to buy a new PC that will come with Windows 11. Otherwise, you can also install Windows 10 on your computer instead of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. Although Windows 11 has been released, Microsoft continues to support Windows 10, for now.

Otherwise, another option would be to replace Windows with Linux, the free and open source operating system. Or, you can turn your PC into a Chromebook. Indeed, Google offers a solution that allows you to install its Chrome OS operating system on old machines. If your computer is compatible with this solution from Google, you should be able to enjoy regular security updates, a modern interface and a smooth experience.

Windows 10 will be next

Otherwise, it should be noted that after the abandonment of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 by Microsoft, only the two most recent versions of the operating system remain: Windows 10 and Windows 11, formalized in 2022. And precisely , while Microsoft pushes towards the adoption of its new operating system, the days of Windows 10 are already numbered.

Indeed, the Redmond company plans to end support for Windows 10 (currently the most used version) in October 2025. Moreover, a rebound in PC sales is already anticipated due to this programming of the death of Windows 10.

“Supply-side activity shows that many major vendors entered 2023 with a cautious outlook, but the consensus is that parts of the PC market could return to growth at the end of 2023, the overall market following in 2024. The commercial segment has several growth drivers, including the approaching end of support for Windows 10 […]”can we read in a recent report by the firm IDC on shipments for the last quarter of 2022. A period during which computer sales collapsed.