The End of Windows 7: What You Need to Know

TLDRAs of January 14, 2020, Windows 7 has reached its end of life, and support for Windows 8.1 is also ending soon. It is strongly recommended to upgrade to a supported operating system, as running outdated versions can pose security risks. Valve has announced that starting January 1, 2024, Steam will no longer support Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 due to core features relying on an embedded version of Google Chrome that no longer functions on older Windows versions. Users are advised to update to Windows 10 or consider using a supported Linux distro for gaming. Valve encourages Windows 7 and 8.1 users to update sooner rather than later, as these operating systems are susceptible to new malware and other exploits that will not be patched. It's important to prioritize the security of your PC, Steam account, and personal data by using a supported operating system.

Key insights

🔒Running Windows 7 or 8.1 after their end of life dates can pose security risks.

🕹️Steam will stop supporting Windows 7 and 8.1 starting January 1, 2024.

💻Windows 7 and 8.1 users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 10 or use a supported Linux distro for gaming.

🔄Future versions of Steam will require Windows 10 for new features and security updates.

🔒Running Windows 7 or 8.1 without security updates leaves your PC, Steam account, and personal data vulnerable.

Q&A

What happens if I continue to use Windows 7 or 8.1 after their end of support dates?

—Continuing to use outdated versions of Windows can expose your PC to security risks, as new malware and exploits will not be patched. It is recommended to upgrade to a supported operating system for enhanced security.

Can I still play my Steam games on Windows 7 or 8.1?

—As of January 1, 2024, Steam will no longer support Windows 7 and 8.1. It is advised to upgrade to Windows 10 or consider using a supported Linux distro for gaming.

Do I have to upgrade to Windows 10?

—While upgrading to Windows 10 is recommended, you may also consider using a supported Linux distribution for gaming.

Why is Valve ending support for Windows 7 and 8.1?

—Valve's decision to end support for Windows 7 and 8.1 is due to core features in Steam relying on an embedded version of Google Chrome that no longer functions on older Windows versions. Additionally, future versions of Steam will require Windows 10 for new features and security updates.

What are the potential risks of running Windows 7 or 8.1 without security updates?

—Running Windows 7 or 8.1 without security updates can leave your PC, Steam account, and personal data susceptible to new malware and exploits. It is crucial to prioritize the security of your system by using a supported operating system.

Timestamped Summary

00:00As of January 14, 2020, Windows 7 reached its end of life.

03:32Valve will stop supporting Windows 7 and 8.1 on January 1, 2024.

05:49Running Windows 7 or 8.1 after their end of life dates is not recommended for gaming purposes.

07:37Continuing to use Windows 7 or 8.1 for gaming can pose security risks.

09:31Valve's decision to end support for Windows 7 and 8.1 is due to core features relying on an embedded version of Google Chrome that no longer functions on older Windows versions.

11:59Windows 7 and 8.1 users are advised to update to Windows 10 or consider using a supported Linux distro for gaming.

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