Microsoft Windows Essentials 2012 has been among us for quite some time now. But as the company has been warning for some time, the suite of apps was slated to be gone by January 10, 2017.
January 10 has passed and we now know the link to download the installation file is no longer available at the Windows Essentials download page. But in case you have it already installed on your machine, Microsoft has stated that nothing will change and the suite of apps will still work as it has until now. Unfortunately, the company warns that the lack of support means an increased security risk over time.
Also, Microsoft has shared a list of recommended alternatives to those users who want to leave Windows Essentials 2012 behind, as follows:
- Mail is available as a free built-in application for Windows 8.1 and above.
- Photos is available as a free built-in application for Windows 8.1 and above.
- Live Writer is available as an open-source solution.
- One Drive is an inbox feature for Windows 8.1 and above.
- Family Safety is an inbox feature for Windows 8.1 and above.
As spotted by Thurrott, there are still two unofficial ways to download the installation files directly from Microsoft, even though there aren"t any guarantees of how long they will still be available.
Install Windows Essentials 2012 over the web or use the offline installer.
Source & Images: Thurrott