For those businesses still operating on Windows 7, it’s time to make some update decisions, fast. Microsoft will be ending mainstream and paid support for this operating system on January 14, 2020.  So, what does Windows 7 end of life mean for your organization? 

What to Expect from Windows 7 End of Life

If you’ve ever paid attention to those update alerts that pop up on your webpage or computer, then you have the basic understanding that every Windows product operates over a specific lifecycle. It begins when a product is released, and it ends when it’s no longer supported and an updated version is rolled out.  

Knowing the end dates to these lifecycles is key to maintaining the integrity of your operating system, as it allows you to make informed decisions about upgrades, updates, and any other software changes that may be necessary to ensure that you continue to experience secure, successful uptime. 

If your business is still running Windows 7, now is the time to upgrade to Windows 8.1 or 10, Microsoft’s latest OS.

The latter is still operating within the 5-year mainstream support period, so Windows 10 is the one that is currently recommended for businesses. It’s also worth noting that Microsoft rolls out new operating systems pretty regularly, stopping support of older systems after each has a 10-year run.  So, it’s wise to get on board with and start tracking OS upgrades now if they’re not already on your radar.

As many newer businesses are finding out with Windows 7 end of life, if your business does not make the update before the mid-January deadline, your system will become vulnerable to countless security risks affecting all dated operating systems and their applications.        

That’s why making these OS upgrades is absolutely essential.  These software upgrades are what protects your business from the billions of malware samples, ransomware, and malicious cyber attacks that run rampant across the Internet each and every day. Putting your business and its valuable assets at risk is simply not something anyone can afford.  

Upgrading your operating system is your best line of defense against such insidious attacks when it comes to PC software.  Of course, no update will solve the problem completely. But, by keeping your operating systems current, you can maximize your chances of holding strong through a security breach or altogether preventing such cyber assaults from penetrating your assets and resources.  Once you’ve upgraded to the new OS, even if you just do the quick anti-virus updates as they pop up over time, your business will continue to be better protected.     

Making the Microsoft upgrade before the deadline is how you future-proof your business’ infrastructure.  Any unpatched systems will be left vulnerable to both known and unknown attacks. So, taking action to protect your systems is just common sense. 

Don’t let your business get caught off guard; make the upgrade today. Ask how we can help.