What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (2024)

Skip to main content

Microsoft

Support

Support

Sign in

Sign in with Microsoft

Sign in or create an account.

Hello,

Select a different account.

You have multiple accounts

Choose the account you want to sign in with.

Applies ToWindows XP Windows Vista Windows 7 Windows 8.1

An unsupported version of Windows doesn't receive software updates from Microsoft. These updates include security updates that protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software, whichcan steal your personal information. Windows Update also installs the latest software updates to improve the reliability of Windows, which includes new drivers for your hardware.

If you have devices running an unsupported version of Windows, we recommend upgrading them to a more current, in-service, and supported Windows release. If your devices don't meet the technical requirements to run a more current release of Windows, we recommend that you replace the device with one that supports Windows 11. For more information, seeWindows 11 system requirements.

To check the end-of-support dates for your version of Windows, see the product lifecycle information for Windows.

If your version of Windows is still supported, you should always install the latest updates for Windows. To download and install these updates, use Windows Update in the Settings app.

Devices running an unsupported version of Windows will still function, but Microsoft doesn't provide the following:

  • Technical support of any issue

  • Software updates

  • Security updates or fixes

While you could continue to use your PC, without continued software and security updates your PC is at greater risk for viruses and malware. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that's still supported. A new device that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience.

Yes.If you continue to use an unsupported version of Windows, your PC will still work, but it's more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Your PC will continue to start and run, but you won't receive software updates, including security updates, from Microsoft.

For more information about the support policy, see the Microsoft support lifecycle policy FAQ.

There are a few options for using a supported version of Windows:

  • Recommended: New PC with Windows 11- Windows 11 is the most current version of Windows. If you have an older PC, we recommend you move to Windows 11 by buying a new PC. Hardware and software have improved a lot, and today's computers are faster, more powerful, and more secure. View Windows 11 PCs

  • Installing Windows 11 on your current PC - You can also see if your current PC meets the minimum system requirementsfor Windows 11. PCs that are running an unsupported version of Windows are unlikely to meet these requirements, but if yours does, you can purchase and download a full version of Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Proor buy from a retailer. If you do choose this path, you'll need to reinstall your apps. In some cases, a newer version of the app may be required. You also need to transition files, data, and settings. The installation overwrites the contents of your existing hard drive. It may be easier for you to first upgrade to Windows 10 and then upgrade to Windows 11.

  • Installing Windows 10 on your current PC - Windows 10 is still available and will be supported until October 14, 2025. You can check if your current PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10. If it does, you can check with retailers to see if they still offer Windows 10 for sale.

There are two ways you can getWindows 11:

  • Recommended: New PC with Windows 11 - Windows 11 is the most current version of Windows. If you have an older PC, we recommend you move to Windows 11 by buying a new PC. Hardware and software have improved a lot, and today's computers are faster, more powerful, and more secure. View Windows 11 PCs

  • Installing Windows 11 on your current PC - You can also see if your current PC meets the minimum system requirementsfor Windows 11. If it does, you can purchase and download a full version of Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Proor buy from a retailer. If you do choose this path, you'll need to reinstall your apps. In some cases, a newer version of the app may be required. You also need to transition files, data, and settings. The installation overwrites the contents of your existing hard drive. It may be easier for you to first upgrade to Windows 10 and then upgrade to Windows 11.

There currently aren't free upgrade paths from unsupported versions of Windows to either Windows 10 or Windows 11. You can purchase Windows 11 from Microsoft or contact a retailer to learn about more options. You can upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free.

It's easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using OneDrive, a cloud storage service. You can back up and protect your files online in the cloud and then sync onto a new PC. Syncing the files between your new PC and the cloud allows you to store the file locally for offline use when you don't have internet access. They're also stored on the OneDrive service in the cloud where you can restore them if something happens. OneDrive can automatically keep the two versions in sync as changes are made.

Learn how to move files with OneDrive

If OneDrive isn't the best fit for you, you can also use an external hard drive or USB key to copy over files.

SUBSCRIBE RSS FEEDS

Need more help?

Want more options?

Discover Community Contact Us

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (2)

Microsoft 365 subscription benefits

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (3)

Microsoft 365 training

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (4)

Microsoft security

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (5)

Accessibility center

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (6)

Ask the Microsoft Community

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (7)

Microsoft Tech Community

Find solutions to common problems or get help from a support agent.

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (10)

Online support

Thank you for your feedback!

×

What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Van Hayes

Last Updated:

Views: 6451

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Van Hayes

Birthday: 1994-06-07

Address: 2004 Kling Rapid, New Destiny, MT 64658-2367

Phone: +512425013758

Job: National Farming Director

Hobby: Reading, Polo, Genealogy, amateur radio, Scouting, Stand-up comedy, Cryptography

Introduction: My name is Van Hayes, I am a thankful, friendly, smiling, calm, powerful, fine, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.