Microsoft released a notice to the public that they are no longer supporting Windows XP starting April 8th 2014.
This discontinued support can cause your computer running XP to be more susceptible to viruses, for businesses, you may no longer meet compliance requirements, and other programs and hardware may no longer be supported for windows XP.
The Risks of Running Windows XP
To be honest, I didn't think that continuing to run on Windows XP was that big of a deal until I read more about it. The risks are higher than just getting a few viruses.Security Risks
A common misconception is that if you have a good antivirus, you can get away with not updating your operating system. This is not entirely true. Microsoft actually has antivirus properties built into their software, and it is constantly being updated to keep your computer safe. Also, the antivirus programs you may be running may no longer have updates to the XP version, which will cause a security threat.
"PCs running Windows XP after April 8, 2014, should not be considered to be protected, and it is important that you migrate to a current supported operating system " - Microsoft.com
Hardware Support
Hardware manufacturers may no longer support the drivers required to run on windows XP. This means that if you need to reload your windows XP, or a driver fails, you may not be able to recover that driver, and your computer may no longer work properly.
Compliance
"Businesses that are governed by regulatory obligations such as HIPAA may find that they are no longer able to satisfy compliance requirements"(Microsoft.com). Businesses that are still running windows XP need to make sure they are still in compliance. To be safe, we do recommend you upgrade to at least windows 7.
Software Support
Software vendors may no longer create, support, or sell programs that work on XP. If you wish to buy another program to put on your XP computer, your choices will be limited.
What Should You Do Now?
There are a couple things you can do to keep your computer up to date:1) Upgrade to Windows 7 or Windows 8
Good News! You don't have to get a new computer! All you need to do is upgrade it to a new operating system.
We recommend coming to OneClick Computers LLC, and requesting a Windows 7 upgrade.
Call us today at (414) 840-4976 for details on our special Windows 7 upgrade pricing. You can stop by our office 10am-5pm at:
N64W23316 Main St.
Sussex, WI 53089.
2) Get a New Computer
Chances are, if you are running XP, your computer may be a little outdated. It may cost more than the computer is worth to upgrade it to Windows 7. If that is the case, we would recommend getting a new computer.
Check out our specials at OneClick Computers LLC. We have Dell laptops running windows 7 starting at only $280.
3) Ask A Professional
When in doubt, it is always good to call a professional to ask what they think your best move would be.
Call us at (414) 840-4976 with any questions you may have about XP, and what direction you should go. Our friendly staff will answer your questions honestly, with your best interests in mind.
OneClick Computers LLC
(414) 840-4976
N64W23316 Main St.
Sussex, WI 53089
Open 10-5pm M-F
Stop by before 1pm, and get a great meal at M&M's restaurant (we are in the same building with M&M restaurant!)