Microsoft always provides safe updates for the latest versions of Windows so that everyone can work efficiently on their computers or laptops. Windows 10 is the latest version by Microsoft, which requires updates frequently.

Do you want to know what happens if you do not upgrade to Windows 10? You might not face a lot of problems using the existing Windows on your desktop, but over time, you will experience a lot of issues with whatever version you are on. Here is what you will have to experience with the older versions and how to overcome those issues:

For Windows Vista or XP

These are some of the oldest versions of Windows, and they are not supported by Microsoft anymore. Till 2017, the company supported Windows Vista and XP systems. This means you have not enjoyed the benefits of all the security updates and other latest functions of Windows for the longest time. With such an old version, you won’t be able to upgrade to Windows 10 directly. It also implies that you have been using the oldest version of a computer, so you should consider purchasing a new desktop. You might not be able to install the update due to your device’s low storage or slow speed.

For Windows 7

Microsoft used to support Windows 7 until January 2020. This means that anyone who continued to use Windows 7 is not receiving any security updates from the company. You might be able to use the software without much trouble, but soon you will begin to face challenges with it. If you discover any interruption in security or lose any data, then Microsoft won’t be responsible for it.

It would be better for your device to get an update as soon as possible. To update it to Windows 10, check Microsoft’s support web page that describes all the steps or purchase a new computer or laptop.

For Windows 8

Windows 8 is an unsupported operating system that doesn’t offer any security to your data and desktop. If you don’t want to jump into Windows 10 directly, you can choose to upgrade to Windows 8.1 as soon as possible.

To install the update, open Windows Update to ensure that you are using the latest installed patches. Then go to the Store app and locate Update Windows and begin downloading the Windows 8.1 update.

For Windows 8.1

There is no problem with running Windows 8.1, but you will soon have to update it to Windows 10. Microsoft has extended its support to Windows 10 until 10th January 2023 only. We would suggest you look for the latest update before you run out of Microsoft’s support for your Windows 8.1 OS. And the good news is that you might be able to upgrade to Windows 10 directly depending on which computer or laptop you use.

A few years ago, manufacturers stopped retailing computers and laptops with pre-installed Windows 8.1. So, if you choose to purchase a new laptop or computer, you will get the pre-installed version of Windows 10. And, if you decide to stick to your existing computer for updating from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10, then go to Microsoft’s support page to know the precautions and steps you have to take to update your device.

Update Windows 10

You might be running the latest version of Windows, but as we mentioned earlier, this operating system continually evolves and brings two significant updates about twice a year. So, despite being on the latest operating system, you need to make sure that you are using the updated versions of it. To update it:

1. Go to Settings and open System.
2. Click on the About section and locate Windows Specifications.
3. Under the Windows Specifications section, check the version you are using.
4. If your version needs an update, then go to the Update and Security section.
5. Click on Windows Update to install the latest version.

source: https://geekswire.uk.com/is-it-necessary-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/