If you’re currently using Google Chrome on an old or outdated computer, it’s probably time to upgrade your hardware. The new version of Google Chrome is called Chrome 110 released on February 7no longer supports Windows 7, Windows 8 / 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2.
As you know, Microsoft’s support for Windows operating system Windows 7, Windows 8 / 8.1 ended last month. Therefore, no other security updates will be provided for this version. The company asked users of devices with the said operating system to upgrade their system to higher versions of Windows operating system, specifically Windows 11. The lack of support of the new version of Google Chrome for these operating systems also happens following this decision by Microsoft.
- Microsoft has ended support for Windows 7
- End of support for both Windows 7 and 8 in a few days
Chrome 110 fixes some known cybersecurity issues. This release includes several new features such as personalization of network error pages and the option to use biometric authentication on supported systems to auto-complete saved passwords. The release of Chrome 110 is the beginning of the new release cycle of Chrome, which from now on will make this browser available in a limited way one week before the release of the final version of Chrome.
Does using an old version of Chrome expose your computer to cyber attacks?
This is the first version of the Google browser that requires Windows 10 or later. Older versions of Chrome will still work on devices with older versions of the Windows operating system. However, from now on, neither the browser nor the operating systems will receive new security updates, leaving your device vulnerable to potential cyber attacks.
Microsoft has not released exact statistics on how many people are still using Windows 7. But a report in 2021 announced the number of users of this operating system at around 100 million people. A recent survey by Lansweeper in October of last year also concluded that Windows 7 still has more users than Windows 11. Meanwhile, Microsoft offers free updates for Windows 10 compatible devices. Keep in mind, though, that devices old enough to run Windows 7 are unlikely to support upgrading to a compatible operating system, and Microsoft no longer sells downloads or license keys for Windows 10 Home and Pro.
In fact, those still using an older version of Windows will have to physically upgrade their device to support the Windows 11 update or buy a new laptop or PC to receive security updates. Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.
