A Windows update from Microsoft has fixed more than 70 issues for PC users. But system updates could cost Microsoft users in future, according to tech experts.
Last week's release fixed issues including some deemed "critical", as well as three others given the dreaded "zero-day rating", which means hackers are already aware of the glitches and exploiting them.
A recent zero day bug gave hackers full system privileges and allowed them to run code on a machine without being logged in. It's a serious problem, and one which highlights an even bigger nightmare for millions of Windows fans, reports Express.co.uk.
The recent Microsoft announcement warned that devices that are running Windows 8.1 or anything lower such as Windows 7 will no longer be supported. This change means no updates, features or security patches will be released to machines with this software installed on them.
But the recent fix for serious issues with Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems mean anyone using older versions should be seriously concerned of their extreme vulnerability to attacks.
"While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 8.1, without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at greater risk for viruses and malware," Microsoft warned.
"We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported. A new device that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience."
Although it sounds easy, making the switch to something new can now be pretty costly. Microsoft has stopped selling Windows 10 via its online store which means many may now be forced to jump straight to Windows 11.
Windows 11 includes a swathe of new features such as an improved Start Menu and Focus settings and Widgets. But many older PCs and laptops simply aren't compatible with it, meaning a new computer is the only option.
"To maintain the reliability and stability of Microsoft 365, we strongly recommend you take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities by moving to a new PC with Windows 11," Microsoft advised.
"PCs have changed substantially since Windows 8.1 and Windows 8 were first released. Today’s computers are faster, more powerful, and sleeker—plus they come with Windows 11 already installed.
"Most Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 devices will not meet the hardware requirements for upgrading to Windows 11."
With Microsoft no longer releasing vital bug fixes, many PC users could find that now is the time to make the jump to something new.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR WINDOWS 11
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC).
- RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB) or greater.
- Storage: 64 GB* or greater available storage is required to install Windows 11.
- Extra storage space might be required to download updates and enable specific features.
- Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
- Display: High definition (720p) display, 9" or greater monitor, 8 bits per color channel.
- Internet connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates, and to download and use some features.
