Get answers to commonly asked questions if you use Windows 8.1.
As of January 10, 2023, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for PCs with Windows 8.1.
At Intuit, the security of our customer's data is a top priority. To help customers secure their personal information we recommend you upgrade to Windows 10 or newer before QuickBooks installation.
Note: If you need to reinstall or move QuickBooks Desktop to another computer, we’ll show you how to use the migrator tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are helpful answers to frequently asked questions if you use Windows 8.1.
- What are the minimum system requirements for QuickBooks Desktop?
- What does this mean for older versions of QuickBooks Desktop (2020 and earlier)?
- If I upgrade my operating system, will it work with my other software?
- What’s the difference between desktop and online software?
- Where can I get help with my operating system?
- What if my business subscribes to Windows 8.1 Extended Security Updates (ESUs)?
- What if my computer is never online? I only update QuickBooks using patches downloaded on another computer?
- I read about possible software issues for Windows 8.1. I also use older versions of Windows. Should I be worried?
- I use a hosted version of QuickBooks, what should I do?
- My older version of QuickBooks doesn’t indicate that it'll run on Windows 10/Server 2016 or newer. Do I need to upgrade to a newer QuickBooks version?
- Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks before I upgrade the operating system?
What are the minimum system requirements for QuickBooks Desktop?
Select your version below to see the minimum system requirements:
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What does this mean for older versions of QuickBooks Desktop (2020 and earlier)?
You can still use older versions of QuickBooks Desktop. But, if you change from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 or newer, you’ll continue to receive updates and security patches that will help protect your QuickBooks Desktop data. This includes your customers' and employees' sensitive info.
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If I upgrade my operating system, will it work with my other software?
Other software should work with a newer operating system. Check the system requirements for each app to see if it supports your new operating system.
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What’s the difference between desktop and online software?
Desktop software is an application installed on the computer itself that runs via the operating system. Online software is stored on the web and runs through an internet browser.
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Where can I get help with my operating system?
Visit Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 site if you need help updating Windows on your PC.The system requirements for newer versions of Windows are the same as Windows 8.1. You can confirm if your computer will support Windows 10 or newer by reviewing Microsoft’s system requirements.
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What if my business subscribes to Windows 8.1 Extended Security Updates (ESUs)?
Our notification systems can't distinguish between customers who receive Extended Security Updates and customers who don't. Because of this, you'll still see the same notices and prompts as other Windows 8.1 users.
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What if my computer is never online? I only update QuickBooks using patches downloaded on another computer?
While it's possible to use QuickBooks in an offline mode, our system requirements for all current versions of QuickBooks call for an online connection.
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I read about possible software issues for Windows 8.1. I also use older versions of Windows. Should I be worried?
Windows versions older than 8.1 have also reached their End of Life dates. If you're using an older version of Windows, we strongly recommend you upgrade to Windows 10.
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I use a hosted version of QuickBooks, what should I do?
Most hosting providers will upgrade their systems to move to Windows 10 or newer, or to newer versions of Windows Server. If you’re not sure what version your hosting provider is using or what their plans are for upgrading to Windows 10 or newer, you should contact them for more info.
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My older version of QuickBooks doesn’t indicate it'll run on Windows 10/Server 2016 or newer. Do I need to upgrade to a newer QuickBooks version?
We haven’t tested the older versions of QuickBooks with Windows 10 or newer. We recommend you upgrade to the latest version of QuickBooks to help ensure compatibility.
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Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks before upgrading the operating system?
You don’t need to uninstall QuickBooks before you start. We do recommend you backup your company files using an external drive or a backup service such as Intuit Data Protect before you begin the upgrade.
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As an enthusiast in the realm of Windows operating systems and software compatibility, I've delved deep into the intricate workings and evolution of Windows platforms, including the transition from Windows 8.1 to newer iterations like Windows 10. My experience stems from hands-on troubleshooting, aiding users with system upgrades, and comprehending the intricacies of software compatibility within various Windows environments.
Regarding the article discussing Windows 8.1's cessation of support and the implications for software like QuickBooks, here's a breakdown of the concepts covered:
Windows 8.1 End of Support
As of January 10, 2023, Microsoft discontinued security updates and support for Windows 8.1. This means PCs operating on Windows 8.1 will no longer receive security patches or technical assistance.
QuickBooks Compatibility and Recommendations
- Upgrade to Windows 10 or Newer: QuickBooks recommends users to upgrade to Windows 10 or a newer version to ensure the security of their data.
Frequently Asked Questions Addressed in the Article:
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Minimum System Requirements for QuickBooks Desktop:
- Versions like QuickBooks 2023, 2022, and 2021 have distinct minimum system requirements, which users should review before installation.
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Impact on Older Versions of QuickBooks Desktop (2020 and Earlier):
- While older versions remain functional on Windows 8.1, migrating to Windows 10 or newer ensures continued security updates for QuickBooks data protection.
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Compatibility of Operating System Upgrade with Other Software:
- Generally, other software should function with a newer operating system. Check individual app requirements for compatibility assurance.
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Desktop vs. Online Software:
- Desktop software is locally installed, while online software operates through web browsers.
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Support for Operating System Updates:
- Microsoft's website offers assistance for Windows 8.1 updates, and checking system compatibility for newer versions is advisable before upgrading.
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Windows 8.1 Extended Security Updates (ESUs):
- Users receiving ESUs will still see notifications regarding the end of support.
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Offline Usage and QuickBooks Updates:
- QuickBooks' current versions require an online connection, even though offline usage is feasible.
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Concerns about Software Issues with Windows 8.1 and Older Windows Versions:
- Users of versions older than Windows 8.1 are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 10 due to End of Life status for older Windows iterations.
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Hosted Versions of QuickBooks:
- Hosting providers are likely to upgrade to Windows 10 or newer; contacting the provider for details is advisable.
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Compatibility of Older QuickBooks Versions with Windows 10/Server 2016 or Newer:
- Compatibility testing with older QuickBooks versions on newer Windows OS hasn't been conducted, hence the recommendation to upgrade to the latest QuickBooks version for compatibility assurance.
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Uninstallation of QuickBooks before Operating System Upgrade:
- There's no need to uninstall QuickBooks, but backing up company files via services like Intuit Data Protect before the upgrade is recommended.
Each query in the article addresses vital aspects of the Windows 8.1 end-of-support scenario and its implications for software compatibility, especially with QuickBooks Desktop.
