Support for Windows 7 is ending

After January 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for PCs running Windows 7.

• Why Windows 10?
• Upgrade Options
• Deployment Resources
• Frequently asked questions

What does end of support mean?

If you continue to use Windows 7 after support has ended, your PC will still work, but it may become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Your PC will continue to start and run, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following support for your business.

Frequently asked questions

Can I upgrade my existing PC to Windows 10?

Yes, you can upgrade compatible Windows 7 PCs based on these requirements with a full license. To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, we recommend moving to a new PC with Windows 10.

What happens if I continue to use Windows 7?

You can continue to use Windows 7, but once support ends your PC will become more vulnerable to security risks. Windows will operate, but you will stop receiving security and feature updates.

Can Windows 7 still be activated after January 14, 2020?

Windows 7 can still be installed and activated after support has ended. However, to avoid security risks and viruses, Microsoft recommends that you consider upgrading to Windows 10.

Will Internet Explorer still be supported on Windows 7?

Support for Internet Explorer on Windows 7 devices will be discontinued on January 14, 2020. As a component of Windows operating system, Internet Explorer follows the same support lifecycle.

Can I get a free upgrade to Windows 10?

Microsoft 365 Business comes with a free upgrade for users with a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 Pro license on their device. By purchasing Microsoft 365 Business, your users can upgrade all of their old Windows Pro licensed devices at no additional cost.

Does this also apply to Windows Embedded 7?

There are a number of members of the Windows Embedded 7 product family with different support lifecycles. The earliest end of support date is January 14, 2020 and the others follow thereafter. For more details, see our product lifecycle page.

Are there alternatives that give me extra time to complete my migration while keeping my users safe?

For users of Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Enterprise, you can purchase extended security updates through January 2023. For an in-depth FAQ about Windows 7 Extended Security Updates, please download the Microsoft end of support FAQ.

How will the end of support for Windows 7 affect my organization’s Microsoft Office apps?

Your experience may be different depending on the Office version you’re running. To learn more, see Windows 7 end of support and Office 365 ProPlus.

To avoid security risks and viruses, Microsoft recommends you upgrade to Windows 10.