Microsoft has initiated the process of retiring its legacy inbox troubleshooters in Windows 11, a move that was discreetly announced earlier this year. These built-in tools, which have been a part of the Windows ecosystem since their introduction with Windows 7 in 2009, were designed to automatically diagnose and rectify common issues across various Windows features.
As per a Microsoft support document, “The legacy inbox Windows Troubleshooters are built-in tools that, when launched, automatically diagnose and correct common problems for a variety of Windows features. MSDT Troubleshooters will be deprecated in the next Windows 11 release, with the date to be determined.”
Transition Timeline
Microsoft has outlined a three-year plan for the deprecation of these tools:
- 2023: Begin redirecting some troubleshooters to the new ‘Get Help' troubleshooting platform.
- 2024: Complete the redirection process and remove the remaining legacy troubleshooters.
- 2025: Eliminate the MSDT platform entirely.
What This Means for Users
The retirement of these troubleshooters signifies a shift from the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool (MSDT) platform to Microsoft's new ‘Get Help' platform. While some troubleshooters will be redirected to this new platform, others will be completely removed. For devices that will run the upcoming release of Windows 11, this deprecation, which includes both the redirection and removal of legacy inbox troubleshooters, will be applicable. However, the exact release date for this version of Windows 11 is yet to be announced.
Accessing the New Troubleshooters
Users can access the ‘Get Help' troubleshooters by navigating to Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters and selecting the appropriate troubleshooter for their issue.
Implications for Older Windows Versions
Devices operating on Windows 11 version 22H2 and older, as well as Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, and other preceding OS versions, will remain unaffected by this retirement. These systems will continue to support the legacy inbox troubleshooters.
Feedback and Updates
Microsoft encourages users to share their feedback regarding the troubleshooter deprecation plan. Feedback can be submitted by going to Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot, selecting ‘Give feedback', and following the on-screen instructions.
