Although tech support is not one of our usual topics, losing support for Windows XP will have a wide effect on small businesses. Anyone who currently uses Windows XP as their operating system will soon be at risk for viruses and cyberattackers.
What does it mean when we say support is ending? ‘Support’ refers to the updates that windows sends, like security patches and other software updates. As hackers and other sources of malware continue to develop ways to attack your computer using weaknesses or gaps in the system, windows sends these updates and patches to keep your system up to date. Without these software and security updates, cyberattackers and hackers will have a field day. Although Windows XP will still run after April 8, your sensitive data will become an easier target for hackers and viruses. Also, drivers and software for XP will become harder to find as manufactures and software engineers focus on the road ahead, which may lead to losing functionally of your hardware.
There are many other reasons to update to Windows 7 or 8. The fact that Windows is discontinuing support of XP attests to the obsolescence of 12-year-old XP. Windows XP currently gets infected nearly twice as much as Windows 7, and almost five times much as Windows 8. CMIT Solutions says: “research co-sponsored by Microsoft and IDC found that the annual IT and end-user labor cost for a PC running Windows XP was $870. The same cost for a PC running Windows 7? $168.” If you think about it, that is saving you an average of 80% on IT costs. Since XP is now so old (three full generations behind Microsoft’s current product cycle), Windows 7 and 8 both have many features and capabilities that did not exist at the advent of XP, like enhanced Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and touchscreen capabilities, along with increased driver stability, 64-bit utilization, and software standardization.
In the long run, upgrading your OS will save you from a myriad of computer headaches, save you money in the long run, and your business will also enjoy the increased productivity and other benefits of upgrading your tech systems. Be sure not to risk your small business because you are afraid to change.
Let us know if you would like a referral to an IT tech who can help your business transition in a positive and productive way. 310-534-5577 or [email protected]
