The clock is ticking for Windows 7. Microsoft ends support for Windows 7 launched in 2009, so the users who still using it, only have a short time to upgrade. When a monthly patches package for Microsoft products is announced on January 14, 2020, it will be the moment when Microsoft delivers the last security updates for Windows 7, but also a moment that will mark the end of an era.
Windows 7 was the most successful operating system ever. It is still a very popular platform, although we are approaching the moment when it will remain without the support of the manufacturer. At this point, Windows 7 still has a market share of 36%, so , in January 2020, when Microsoft ends support for this operating system, Windows 7 is expected to remain on many computers around the world, despite apparent security risks. That’s exactly what happened in the case of Windows XP, which was abolished on April 8, 2014, at the time when it was still on more than 25% of computers around the world.
What this means for Windows 7 Users?
The end of the support basically means that Windows 7 will no longer receive new functionality and other optimizations, as well as extended support relates and security patches. In other words, after January 2020, Microsoft will stop delivering security updates, which means Windows 7 will remain unprotected if vulnerabilities are detected.
Risk of vulnerabilities in Windows 7 will increase significantly, especially because different versions of Windows share a large part of the code, and many of the discovered security vulnerabilities affect not only one Microsoft product. As a result, users of Windows 7 can be compromised whenever this happens. It is expected that this version of the Operating system will remain very popular even after the suspension of support, which will make it one of the main goals for cyber criminals. For Microsoft, the end of support for Windows 7 is an opportunity to focus almost exclusively on Windows 10. Although Windows 8.1 still gets updates, its market share is significantly lower than Windows 7’s market share, so that from January 2020, probably all Microsoft’s efforts will be directed to Windows 10.
Windows 7 will not stop working overnight. In fact, the programs will continue to work on Windows 7 long after the release of the last patches package in January 2020, and most of them will regularly receive updates as it would be if Windows 7 still has support. It might be enough for many to continue to use Windows 7, but sooner or later, an upgrade to a newer version of Windows will be inevitable. Microsoft recommends that users switch to Windows 10 by January 2020, and companies should start planning this transition in advance, because in their case, it is a process that requires more resources and more time. If an upgrade is not possible before the expiration of the deadline, the only option is to limit access to systems still running under Windows 7. Antivirus can help to block potential threats, but as time goes by, it will be more difficult for developers to maintain their programs on Windows 7. Ultimately, the upgrade to Windows 10 will become the only option.
How can ITAF help you?
As Microsoft Partner ITAF can help you with secure and fast transition and upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Because every business is different, our team of experienced engineers will adjust this process of upgrading to suit your business needs, and guide you through every step of the process. ITAF will identify machines that need to be upgraded or replaced, develop a timeline and budget for upgrades and replacements and plan for installation and employee training to learn the new system.
Contact ITAF for a free quote.
