As of Tuesday the 14th of January 2020, Microsoft will no longer provide support or updates to anyone using Windows 7.
Windows 7 was a hugely popular operating system, but it was first released over 10 years ago and Microsoft want to end support for their legacy systems to continue forward with Windows 10 and new releases.
It can be hard to see the need to upgrade if everything is still working as it should and tasks are being successfully completed.
There are a couple of issues however with running out of date technology. The first major risk is that Microsoft will no longer be proving any security updates or support for Windows 7. This means that if a hacker finds a way to exploit the system, there will be no way to patch the hole they have created.
Any business running any machine with Windows 7 after the 14th of January will be operating with a massive security risk, not just to the individual computer, but to the entire network.
Remember hackers only need to find a door into your system, once they are in they can jump almost anymore. By continuing to use Windows 7, you are not only leaving the front door unlocked, but wide open to anyone.
Other than a security risk, there is also the risk of performance issues, which may come in the form of sluggish loading times all the way through to major crashes, with no way to recover the data. Protecting your data is not only about nefarious hackers, but it also making sure you can restore your work if there is a major system or human error. Without a supported operating system, this may not be possible.
There are two ways to move to a new operating system, either buy a new device or upgrade the operating system on the same device.
Windows 7 was released over 10 years ago, so if you are still running it, it’s very likely that your device is over 7 years old. While it may be possible to install the latest operating system on your device, it may not be worth doing.
A brand new device will come with the latest Windows version and will mean that all features are available; it will also mean that the device is supported and runs efficiently.
It may also be worth looking into device as a service (DaaS) that allows you to upgrade your technology every 3 years without the major upfront costs of a complete refresh.
Upgrading technology is an important part of mitigating risk in your business and if ignored will turn into major threats.
If you’d like to understand more about the Windows 7 end of support and steps you can take to make sure your business is running the right technology, check out our upcoming webinar; ‘Upgrading to New Technology’.