Firefox is finally ending support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, and urges users to upgrade or switch to Linux
PC Gamer
by James Bentley February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Firefox has officially announced that it will no longer provide support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 starting from February 2024. This marks the end of an era for these operating systems, which have been widely used but are now outdated and pose security risks without regular updates. Users of these older versions of Windows who rely on Firefox will no longer receive critical security updates, making their systems more vulnerable to cyber threats. Mozilla strongly advises upgrading to a supported version of Windows or switching to a Linux-based operating system, which often comes with Firefox pre-installed.
The decision by Mozilla follows a trend set by other major browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, which have already discontinued support for these older Windows versions. While Firefox had provided extended support through its Extended Support Release (ESR) program since January 2023, this period will come to an end in February 2024. This means that users of Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 will be left without any security updates, making it essential for them to take action.
For those who cannot upgrade to newer versions of Windows due to hardware limitations or personal preferences, switching to Linux is a viable alternative. Many Linux distributions include Firefox as the default browser, ensuring users can continue browsing securely and efficiently. This option is particularly appealing for gamers who may prefer the performance and customization options that Linux offers while still maintaining access to a reliable web browser.
While this news primarily affects users of older Windows systems, it also highlights the importance of staying updated with supported software and operating systems. For gaming enthusiasts, upgrading to a newer version of Windows or switching to Linux can provide better compatibility with modern games and hardware, as well as improved security and performance. With Firefox continuing to support Windows 10 for now, users have multiple pathways to ensure their browsing experience remains safe and efficient.
In summary, the discontinuation
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/19/2026