Steam Drops Support For Older Versions Of Windows
Valve is helping you stay safe on the Internet.
By Syazwan Bahri - 02 Jan 2024, 04:01 AM
Cover image via SmartMockups & Steam (Screenshot by SAYS)Valve, the developer of the world's largest video game storefront, Steam, is finally moving on from Windows 7, 8, and 8.1
As of 1 January 2024, if you're still gaming on older version of Windows predating Windows 10, you're on your own as Valve has decided to drop support for older versions of Windows.
To continue receiving Steam updates, especially security fixes, and to maintain your gaming experience, it's time to upgrade to Windows 11 or Windows 10.
Image via u/A-questioner
While Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 users will no longer receive Steam updates, they can still access and play their library of games
However, Valve wants you to know it's a bit risky, as Steam relies on an embedded Chrome version that no longer functions on older versions of Windows.
In fact, Google dropped support for Windows 7 back in January 2023, and the last Chrome version compatible with that version of Windows is Chrome 109.
This upgrade is crucial to ensure the security of your PC
Also, upcoming Steam updates will require Windows features and security updates that are exclusive to Windows 10 and beyond.
So, to ensure a smooth and secure user experience, you should upgrade your Windows if you're still running Windows 7.
Image via Screenshot by SAYS
If you haven't upgraded your PC to Windows 10 or 11, you might be in for a shock
Previously, users on an older version of Windows could upgrade to Windows 10 without needing to purchase a new key.
However, Microsoft has fixed an exploit that allowed users to upgrade from Windows 7 to 11 for free. This means a genuine Windows 10 or 11 licence is now required to upgrade your old version of Windows.
