Countdown to Windows 7 End of Life on January 14, 2020
While the world celebrated the New Year, Microsoft enjoyed their own major milestone as Windows 10 was finally declared more popular than Windows 7. Previous iterations of the Windows operating system couldn’t sway many Windows 7 corporate holdouts (Windows 8 and Windows Vista, for example), but for several years Windows 10 has demonstrated the stability and performance necessary to support business users.
More than half of enterprise machines run Windows 10 today. However, many others still use Windows 7. Experts consider these active machines a security risk—not to mention their poor performance due to aging hardware. Now Microsoft is forcing everyone’s hand. Exactly one year from today, Windows 7 joins other aged operating systems in “end of life,” placing any machines still running it on a deadline.
What Does This Mean for Your Computer and Your Business?
Windows 7 reaches end of life on January 14, 2020. After this date, Microsoft will no longer develop countermeasures or fixes to address new breaches, exploits, viruses, and attacks, leaving Windows 7 computers vulnerable. Some businesses may require a machine to stay on Windows 7 to run legacy software, but these machines should not be connected to the network as they will be a high-value target, giving hackers easy access to an otherwise secure network.
This deadline is an opportunity. Consider it a countdown to more efficient work spaces, more secure transactions, and features that integrate seamlessly with the Cloud and mobile devices. Speed, usability, and security all see major upgrades in Windows 10—upgrades that can make a huge difference for your business.
With the help of a managed services provider like Vectra Technologies, “end of life” doesn’t have to derail you. Is your business still relying on Windows 7? Contact us today to discuss your options for this important transition.