The user then has to re-open their applications and re-load their work-in-progress.

Why are people slow to install upgrades? Probably because they are busy and the update process is a disruption to their work-flow, taking time and enforcing a re-boot. Today, more people are still using the older Windows 8 than 8.1, even though the later version is free and is an improvement on the old. Getting users to upgrade to newer, more secure versions of Windows has always been a problem for Microsoft. That means people who stay with standard Windows 8.1 will find themselves in the same position as Windows XP users after Microsoft ceased support earlier this month after 13 years.

No Update means no further security patches will be installed. The software giant is urging all Windows 8 and 8.1 users to upgrade now as any patches released in next month’s Patch Tuesday on May 13 “ will be dependent on Windows 8.1 Update”.

Microsoft traditionally releases any security patches to its operating system and software on the first Tuesday of the month – known as Patch Tuesday. The original Windows 8 was aimed more at tablet users and touchscreens.