8.1 Extended Kernel — Windows

Windows 8.1 reached End of Support on . This Extended Kernel is a community-driven compatibility layer and system modification that allows modern software – originally requiring Windows 10 or 11 – to run on Windows 8.1.

Breathing New Life into Windows 8.1: The Extended Kernel Project Windows 8.1 Extended Kernel

As of late 2026, the project has achieved: Windows 8

Here is a look at what an extended kernel provides and why users seek it: What is an Extended Kernel? Windows 8.1 Extended Kernel

: The project aims to allow Windows 8.1 to run software typically reserved for Windows 10 or 11 by backporting modern APIs and system functions.