Windows 7 Users to Receive End-of-Life Notification

Microsoft is beginning to notify users that the Windows 7 operating system is approaching its Jan. 12 end-of-life date.

An update for Windows 7 brings a notification that tells users that support for the operating system is coming to an end. Microsoft has been trying to get people to move on from Windows 7 to newer versions for a long time, and that included offering the upgrade to Windows 10 for free.

Windows 7 was released in 2009 and the last major update, dubbed SP1, was released in 2011. Since then, Microsoft has only issued security patches and fixed minor issues.

This notification update (KB4493132) won’t arrive for managed organizations, which include Professional and Enterprise editions of Windows 7, as well as Windows Server products.

The message for users simply states that “after 10 years, support for Windows 7 is nearing the end. January 14 is the last day Microsoft will offer security updates and technical support for computers running Windows 7. We know that change can be difficult, that’s why we’re reaching out early to help you back up your files and prepare for what’s next.”

Users don”t need to expect major mishaps such as data loss or system crashes on January 12; it”s simply that Microsoft won’t patch any vulnerabilities found after that date. If you plan to keep on running Windows 7, consider using a comprehensive security solution to alleviate some of the risks that will inevitably appear.

Microsoft is only dropping the updates for the consumer base. Companies will be able to purchase up to three extra years of support.