Microsoft ends support for Windows 8 and Internet Explorer 11 All But -
While it is certainly possible to try to hold regarding upgrading your computer system or Internet browser to a newer version of the old standby, you know and love, like Microsoft make companies more difficult by disabling support for these older versions. From Tuesday, January 12, support for Windows 8, and Internet Explorer versions 8, 9 and 10 was terminated by the company. As we saw in 2014 when Microsoft stopped supporting Windows XP, users can always keep trying and use outdated software, but a lack of new security updates will leave their computers vulnerable. If you still use one or more of these programs, what does this withdrawal of support mean to you?
If you use Windows 8 ...
A surprising 50 million computers around the world are currently running Windows 8, which means that there is certainly many people will need to upgrade. It is important to know that this is Windows 8 that Microsoft will no longer support - Windows 8.1, which is the updated version, will remain supported, as Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 10. Your options if you are still using Windows 8 will be upgraded to Windows 8.1 or Windows 10. If you choose to upgrade to 8.1, remember that you will need to do this via the Windows Store, rather than Windows Update.
Upgrading your system is essential to ensure that you receive critical security updates and bug fixes that keep your computer running smoothly and safely. You can continue to use Windows 8 support beyond expiration date, but it is not recommended. While it may be a bit of a pain to learn the ins and outs of an operating system updated, it is best to catch up the risk of exposing your files and data private to a potential danger.
If you are using Internet Explorer 8, 9 or 10 ...
IE11 came integrated with Windows 8.1 and Windows 10, so that the only people who will be affected by this are those functioning Windows 7 that have not upgraded or those of Windows 8 running (who need to upgrade anyway, the problem is solved). Fortunately, you do not have to do much to make sure your browser is updated. If you use Windows 7 Automatic Updates, then you should already be upgraded. You always want to check the Internet Explorer version you use? It is an easy process:
Just open your browser and click the settings cog in the upper right corner. Select "About Internet Explorer" from the dropdown menu and you'll see a pop-up that tells you what version you use. Make sure you have the box checked to automatically install new versions so you never miss an update. In addition to this method of verification, Microsoft also released a patch for Windows 7 that will detect your version of IE and inform you if you need to upgrade.
Are there exceptions to these updates?
Believe it or not, some people are still operating on Windows Vista, and as such can not use Internet Explorer 9. For this reason, Microsoft will continue to provide support for IE9 to users Vista from now until April 2017, which is when Vista will join the contingency of unsupported Windows operating systems. If you are among those still using Windows Vista, now might be a good time to review your upgrade options so you're not caught off guard when the time comes.
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