Several months ago, Microsoft announced that it would no longer support Windows 10, 8.1, and 7 as of October 14th, 2025 (scroll down for FAQs). To continue receiving support, you will need to upgrade to Windows 11.

Your computer will continue to work (remember I bought an old 486, Windows XP computer to read the diskettes I got from Helene Hadsell’s house), but as programs you use update, etc., your computer may slowly begin to experience problems as some of your software programs update and require Windows 11.

I had this happen to my iPad Mini 2. It stopped updating the iOS at v12. Slowly, but surely, each program I used attempted to update, and it wouldn’t, stating it required iOS 13 and later. Then I couldn’t even use them. Program by program, my iPad ‘bricked’ itself until I capitulated and bought a new one. Your computer may do the same. Plus, it may become vulnerable to viruses, malware, etc.

If you have an old computer, you will have to look at the Windows 11 requirements and compare them to your current computer or laptop, and see if it will work. If not, you have six months to shop, save up, or win a new PC.

This change will not affect you if you can easily change to Windows 11, use a Mac, Chromebook, tablet, or phone to enter.

Will this change affect your hobby this year?