Windows 8.1 will end support in January, and there are only limited ways to migrate away from Microsoft's ancient OS without paying.

Windows 8.1 is now displaying full-screen alerts when logging into the operating system, warning that the OS is reaching the end of support in January 2023 and will no longer receive security updates.

Microsoft Ends Windows 8.1 Support Today, Here’s What That Means The end of support means the operating system will be vulnerable to security risks. Users should upgrade immediately.