Latest Microsoft alert will prove costly for millions of Windows users

An urgent warning was issued to Windows users last week as Microsoft released a major update to PCs around the world. This extremely important release fixes over 70 issues, including some that were rated “Critical” and three others that received the dreaded “Zero Day Rating”. This basically means that hackers have already become aware of the disruptions and are actively exploiting them in the wild.

One of the latest zero-day bugs even gave hackers full system privileges, allowing them to run code on a computer without being logged in.

It’s a serious problem, and it highlights an even bigger nightmare for millions of Windows fans.

Microsoft recently announced that it is no longer supporting devices running Windows 8.1 or lower versions such as Windows 7.

This change in the Redmond-based company’s terms and conditions means that no updates, new features or security patches will now be released for computers on which this software is installed.

The fact that Microsoft just fixed such serious problems with its Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems should seriously concern anyone using older versions, as their PCs could remain extremely vulnerable to attacks.

“While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 8.1, without continued software and security updates, your PC is at greater risk for viruses and malware,” Microsoft warned.

“We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported. Having a new device capable of running Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience.”

Unfortunately, moving to something new now can be quite costly. That’s because Microsoft has stopped selling Windows 10 through its online store, meaning many may now be forced to switch straight to Windows 11.

That might not sound like such a bad choice, given that Windows 11 includes a host of new features like an improved Start menu and focus settings and widgets.

However, many older PCs and laptops just aren’t compatible with it, meaning a trip to the local tech store to buy a new computer.

“To maintain the reliability and stability of Microsoft 365, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of the latest hardware features by upgrading to a new PC running Windows 11,” Microsoft advised.

“PCs have changed significantly since Windows 8.1 and Windows 8 were first released. Today’s computers are faster, more powerful and slimmer – and they come with Windows 11 already installed.

“Most Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 devices do not meet the hardware requirements to upgrade to Windows 11.”

It’s a tough decision, but with Microsoft not releasing major bug fixes right now, maybe now is a good time to 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 more.

• Storage: Windows 11 installation requires at least 64GB* of available storage space.

• Additional storage space may be required to download updates and enable certain features.

• Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or higher, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

• System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.

• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.

• Display: High-resolution (720p) display, 9 inch or larger monitor, 8 bits per color channel.

• Internet connection: An Internet connection is required to perform updates and to download and use some features.