Microsoft now allows Russians to download Windows OS: Reports
Microsoft now permits citizens in Russia to update their computers to the recent version of the Windows 11 operating system after a suspension in September.
Microsoft has permitted Russians to download and install its Windows operating system and updates after September's suspension, a Russian newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing IT specialists.
In September, Microsoft banned Russian users from updating their computers to the recent version of the Windows 11 operating system. Users who tried to download it on the company's website saw a blank window open, and the website section on the installation of the operating system's latest version was unavailable.
The report stated that Microsoft has again allowed Russian citizens to download the latest updates. The page on the company's official website is loading now without a VPN, and users can install the latest version of the Windows 11 operating system -- 22H2 -- as well as Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7.
On March 4, Microsoft announced halting new sales of its products and services in Russia, following in the footsteps of numerous other companies and Western governments.
The company did not detail how it would apply this policy and said it has taken action over cyberattacks against Ukraine.
Intel had earlier condemned the war in Ukraine and suspended shipments to customers in Russia and Belarus, and Apple halted the sales of its products in Russia.
Google paused its ads in Russia, Google Europe has blocked Youtube channels connected to RT and Sputnik across Europe, and Airbnb announced they were pausing their business in Russia and Belarus.