A laptop in front of a white wall installing Windows updates
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No operating system or software is built to last forever, and Windows 8.1 is no exception. Microsoft has decided to end support for Windows 8.1 on January 10, 2023, after which the operating system will no longer receive security or maintenance updates.
If you're concerned that your PC will be vulnerable to threats once support expires, you should consider upgrading to Microsoft's most recent desktop operating system, Windows 11.
Why Should You Upgrade From Windows 8.1 to Windows 11?
Microsoft will no longer support Windows 8.1 after its end-of-life (EOL) date. While this does not render your PC completely worthless, using an unsupported version of Windows may not be a good idea.
For starters, Windows 8.1 will stop receiving security patches or technical updates after the cutoff date has passed. This will leave your PC vulnerable to harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Of course, you can deploy an antivirus program to fill the void left by discontinued security updates, but that will only get you so far.
Other issues might also end up crippling your PC. For instance, it will become increasingly difficult to find software that is compatible with the old operating system. Certain programs including Microsoft 365 apps, will stop receiving updates. If you continue to use Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 8.1, you’re likely to come across performance and reliability issues over time.
Windows 11 outperforms its predecessors in nearly every important category, including speed, security, compatibility, and so on. Unsurprisingly, such a powerful operating system necessitates the use of appropriate hardware.
You can also check if your PC meets the above requirements by downloading the WhyNotWin11 tool.
However, all is not lost if your PC doesn’t meet all of these requirements. You can still install Windows 11 on your unsupported machine using an ISO file. That said, your PC still needs to have TPM 1.2 (instead of the minimum system requirement of TPM 2.0) and UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled for this to work.
How to Upgrade From Windows 8.1 to Windows 11
The good news is that you can directly upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11. Plus, you won’t be losing any of your data and apps as the upgrade is non-destructive. However, it’s always a good idea to use a Windows backup app to create a full backup before proceeding.
Click the Install button to initiate the installation process.
Say Hello to Windows 11
As we just saw, upgrading from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11 is quick and painless. However, if your PC is already on its last legs, you might want to consider purchasing a new Windows 11-compatible PC for the best experience.
