“Every Windows product has a lifecycle. The lifecycle begins when a product is released and ends when it’s no longer supported. Knowing key dates in this lifecycle helps you make informed decisions about when to update, upgrade or make other changes to your software.” Microsoft
After a decade in use Microsoft support for Windows 7 will come to an end in January 2020 – this includes all levels including paid for support, all updates and security. For the next 8 months the system is in an in-between phase known as ‘extended support’ during which time Microsoft will only offer ‘paid for’ support and security updates. (Microsoft actually ended mainstream support for Windows 7 in 2015 – at which point they stopped adding new features and ended warranty claims).
But what does this mean for the 39% of PC users still running Windows 7 as an operating system? Ultimately your system will continue to function and you will still be able to access the components. But what it does mean is that your system is totally un-covered against threats from viruses and malware.
What should you do to prepare for January 2020?
1. Speak to TwoPointZero: We can help you make the switch from Windows 7 to Windows 10 in the most efficient way possible with minimal disruption to you and your business.
2. Upgrade your Operating System: With 8 months to go we would seriously recommend upgrading your operating system. Whilst for many this is simply a case of purchasing a copy of Windows 10 – installing and running, for others this won’t be such a simple process. Depending on your current hardware (a lot of people are still running computers as old as the system itself) your machine may not have the necessary memory and spec to run Windows 10.
3. Check Compatibility: You may also find that other programmes you are using aren’t as compatible with Windows 10 (though you may find that others run better!) Run an audit of the programmes that you are frequently using and check their compatibility and upgrade options, we can assist you with this.
Don’t panic! You have 8 months to prepare for the changes, don’t leave yourself open to viruses and attacks by leaving it too late, get in touch today.
