After almost 13 years, the end has finally come. Microsoft will end support for its Windows XP operating system effective today. XP has been Microsoft’s most successful operating system since its launch in 2001.
What does this mean for you? Well, a little or a whole lot if your computer is currently running on Windows XP. After today, changes won’t be immediately felt. Your computer will not stop running nor will you face the Blue Screen of Death when you turn on your computer. No features will be disabled and you won’t be forced to upgrade to a new OS. The biggest red flag about the end-of support for Windows XP is the cease and desist of security patches. You know, those annoying updates that you always postponed for four hours because you couldn’t be bothered to log off? If your computer is running on a Windows XP platform, it could be vulnerable to newly developed cyber-attacks without those updated security patches.
Another issue that could be challenging is the compatibility with new computer hardware and software. Microsoft doesn’t support XP anymore and manufacturers are likely soon to follow suit by disregarding the need to make drivers and programs compatible with XP.
So what can you do?
SECURITY. Don’t postpone another update. Log off and make sure you have every available security patch that XP has to offer. Also, make sure you have proper antivirus software.
BACK UP. Back up everything on your hard drive. If your Windows XP computer crashes you might lose whatever software you have on your computer that is compatible with XP. And if you lose it all after today, it might not be available for download again.
UPGRADE. Depending on how old your computer is, upgrading to Windows 8.1 shouldn’t be a problem. Download the Windows Update Assistant to see if your computer is compatible with Windows 8.1. If it’s not compatible, taking the proper precautions and steps mentioned above will keep your computer in perfect working condition.
Microsoft has graciously provided a ton of information about the end-of-support. Check out the links below for more in-depth solutions and FAQs.
Support is Ending for Windows XP
Support is Ending for Windows XP: Business Enterprise
End of Support for Windows XP: What Does it Mean
