Microsoft has officially stopped supporting Windows 8.1
On Tuesday, Microsoft officially announced the end of support for Windows 8.1. This means that no new security updates or bug patches will be released for this system, exposing users to the risk of cyberattacks and security vulnerabilities.
Hence, users are advised to upgrade to a newer version of the Windows operating system, such as Windows 10, which gets periodic security updates and provides ongoing support from Microsoft.
It should be noted that the end of support for Windows 8.1 does not mean that it will not work properly, it just means that it will not get new security updates and bug fixes. Therefore, it is recommended to install and update antivirus software regularly to maintain security and protect data.
What is the best way to upgrade to Windows 10?
Upgrading to Windows 10 can be an easy and simple process. To do this, the following steps can be followed:
1. Check the operating requirements: Make sure that your computer meets the requirements to run Windows 10. These requirements include the processor, memory, storage space, graphics card, and monitor.
2. Backup files: All important files, photos, documents, etc. should be backed up on your computer, to avoid losing any of these data during the upgrade process.
3. Update all software: Make sure all software installed on your computer, including antivirus software and drivers, are updated for optimal performance.
4. Download the upgrade tool: The upgrade tool can be downloaded from the Microsoft website. The tool must be run and the instructions on the screen must be followed to complete the upgrade process.
5. Check Settings: Settings should be checked after the upgrade process is complete, such as sound, display, internet, etc.
You can also consider installing Windows 10 in a new way on your computer, by downloading the ISO file from the Microsoft website, then creating a USB boot disk or DVD and installing Windows 10 through it. However, you should be aware that this process will delete all files and programs on your hard drive, so you must back up your files before performing this process.
Can I upgrade to Windows 10 for free?
Generally, it is not possible to upgrade to Windows 10 for free anymore, except in specific cases such as:
1. If you have a license for qualifying editions of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1: Some early versions of Windows previously included an offer to upgrade to Windows 10, but that offer expired in 2016. However, holders of those licenses can still upgrade to Windows 10 for free.
2. If you are a student or employee of an educational institution: Students and employees of educational institutions can get a free copy of Windows 10 through Microsoft Imagine or Microsoft Azure Dev Tools for Teaching.
3. If you have an official license for Windows 10: An official license for Windows 10 can be purchased from the Microsoft website or from an authorized software reseller.
In the absence of any of these cases, a copy of Windows 10 can be purchased from the Microsoft website or from authorized computer software vendors, and the copy price varies according to the required version and geographical location.
Can I get a trial copy of Windows 10?
Users can get a trial version of Windows 10 through Microsoft's website. This option allows users to try and test the operating system before purchasing.
You can download the trial version of Windows 10 from the Microsoft website and install it on your computer. You should note that the trial version of Windows 10 can only be used for 90 days, and after this period, you must purchase an official copy of Windows 10 if you want to continue using it.
Be aware that the trial version may have some limitations and issues, and may not support all the features available in the full version of Windows 10. Therefore, it is recommended that you install the trial version on a test or trial computer, and not on your computer that you use for daily work or for personal purposes.