Plex Media Server to Drop Support for Older Windows and macOS Versions, Urges Users to Upgrade

Plex, the media playback and server software company, recently revealed on its official forum that its upcoming Plex Media Server will no longer support Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, macOS 10.11, and macOS 10.12. Users running these older operating system versions will be unable to upgrade their Plex Media Server.

Release Date and Supported Systems

Plex Media Server 1.32.0, set to be released on April 10, will mark the beginning of the end of support for the aforementioned systems. While older versions of Plex Media Server will still be usable, continuing to use them may pose a security risk.

LastPass Breach and Security Concerns

The recent LastPass breach occurred because one of its core engineers was using an outdated Plex Media Server version with security vulnerabilities. Hackers exploited these vulnerabilities to infiltrate the engineer's computer and steal the keys to LastPass's core system, leading to significant security issues.

Recommended Upgrades

Plex encourages users to upgrade to at least Windows 10 Version 1607 (Anniversary Update) or macOS 10.13 High Sierra, so the company can continue to provide crucial security updates and support. However, it's worth noting that Windows 10 v1607 consumer and enterprise editions are no longer supported and cannot receive security updates. Only the Windows 10 LTSB 2016 version is currently supported, meaning non-LTSB/LTSC versions without Microsoft-provided updates may still be insecure.

Steam Discontinues Support as Well

This week, gaming platform Steam also announced the discontinuation of support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, further emphasizing the need for users to upgrade their systems as soon as possible.