Microsoft ends mainstream support for Windows 7

January 13, 2015 marked the last date for mainstream support by Microsoft for the Windows 7 operating system. The Microsoft Windows website mentions the support dates for each operating system under the Windows desktop operating system belt.

According to the website, Microsoft will no more release updates for the Windows 7 operating system, post January 13, 2015. However, should there be any critical patches, you could expect minor updates and big fixes in the near future.

At present, the six-year-old operating system has only received a single service pack (SP1) update from the tech giant. Microsoft will not release any more updates for Windows 7 and will officially pull the plug off on Windows 7 on January 14, 2020 (end of extended support).

End of support refers to the date when Microsoft no longer provides automatic fixes, updates, or online technical assistance. This is the time to make sure you have the latest available update or service pack installed. Without Microsoft support, you will no longer receive security updates that can help protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software that can steal your personal information. So make sure you have your Windows 7 operating system updated to the latest service pack as soon as possible.

Microsoft Windows 8 presently has the latest service pack of Windows 8.1 and the mainstream support will end on 2018. Windows 8 will be officially discontinued by 2023.