If you still use Windows 7, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Starting Jan. 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer support Windows 7. That means no more updates or security fixes for the operating system.
Windows 7 was released in 2009 and is still one of the most widely used desktop operating systems. Windows 10 finally overtook Windows 7 in the desktop market at the end of last year.
Will This Affect Everyone Using Windows 7?
Yes, but…
Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for Windows 7 to business customers that pay for support, but not individual users.
The paid Windows 7 Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will be sold on a per-device basis, with the price increasing each year. These ESUs will be available to any Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Enterprise users with volume-licensing agreements, and those with Windows Software Assurance and/or Windows 10 Enterprise or Education subscriptions will get a discount.
If you bought an individual computer with Windows 7 installed on it, then it is likely you do not have a volume-licensing agreement or Windows Software Assurance subscription and you will not be able to purchase an Extended Security Updates from Microsoft. This opens a security vulnerability to all computers running Windows 7 after January 14, 2020
Do I Need Windows Updates and Support?
Yes, without Windows support you will no longer receive vital updates and security fixes that reduce security vulnerabilities. With cybersecurity concerns on the rise, these security updates are very important to keep you and your data safe. But the good news is there are easy ways to update and it is a great time to move to modern desktop with Microsoft 365.
“Changes and upgrades in technology are inevitable,” said Brad Anderson, corporate vice president for Microsoft 365, in a Microsoft blog. “And there’s never been a better time to start putting in motion the things you need to do to shift your organization to a modern desktop with Microsoft 365.”
Solace IT Solutions recommends all its customers upgrade to Windows 10 over the next year, unless software or hardware requirements dictate otherwise.