HomeWinBuzzer NewsMicrosoft Extends Support for Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Extends Support for Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Security Essentials will continue to receive updates beyond Jan. 14, which was original the end-of-support date.

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was widely believed to be ending support for Microsoft Security Essentials on next month. Indeed, the company had previously said that would happen. However, Redmond now says it will continue to offer supports for MSE.

In a Microsoft AMA on the company's official Community Forums, employee Mike Cure confirmed ongoing support. He said Microsoft Security Essentials will receive signature updates beyond January 14th.

That's the date Microsoft originally said MSE would stop getting updates. You may know this is the same date as the end-of-support for Windows 7. In fact, on Microsoft's FAQ about Extended Security Updates for Windows 7, the company said the following:

“Will Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) continue to protect my computer after the end of support?

No, your Windows 7 computer is not protected by MSE after January 14, 2020. MSE is unique to Windows 7 and follows the same lifecycle dates for support.

It's unclear why Microsoft made the change and decided to continue support. However, it makes some sense because the company is providing extended support for Windows 7 users who pay for security updates.

Win7 Support Warning

Earlier this month, Microsoft started to warn users more aggressively about the end of support for Windows 7. Microsoft announced it is now placing a full-screen prompt that warns users about the end of Windows 7. Microsoft is using the warning to tell users about the risk of continuing to use the platform once security support is ended.

According to the company, the warning is appearing on the following Win7 versions:

  • Home Basic
  • Home Premium
  • Users with Extended Security Update (ESU) will not see the warning
Luke Jones
Luke Jones
Luke has been writing about all things tech for more than five years. He is following Microsoft closely to bring you the latest news about Windows, Office, Azure, Skype, HoloLens and all the rest of their products.

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