Among all the Windows operating systems launched by Microsoft so far, arguably the Windows 7 has been the most popular. Unfortunately for those still using Windows 7, the Redmond-based tech giant has announced that it is discontinuing the free support service for this operating system.

According to The Epoch Times, the move by Microsoft is being seen as the company's attempt to pursue people using the Windows 7 to move on to Windows 8 or even a newer update - the Windows 8.1. However, the tech giant had assured its fans that the operating system would continue to function as well as receive updates till Jan. 14, 2020.

However, people who are still using the Windows 7 (in fact, as high as 55 percent of all PCs across the globe still use it) should not be too concerned with Microsoft's decision because the operating system will not only continue working, but also receive all new fixes as well as updates through Windows Update till Jan. 14, 2020. On the other hand, if any user is confronted with an unusual or unfixed problem and would like to resolve it, he/she will require approaching Microsoft and pay the company for its service.

Whether the Windows 7 user likes it or not, he/she will be required to upgrade their PC with a view to prevent this from happening.

Meanwhile, it is heartening to note that the Windows 7 will continue to be on the market for some more time, because currently several computer vendors are offering systems with Windows 7. Moreover, when Microsoft finally decides to withdraw the Windows 7 from the market, it will require doing that about a year prior to the last sales date of Windows 7.