As of January 14, 2020, Windows 7 is no longer supported by Microsoft. This means no further security updates, which could leave systems that continue to run Windows 7 exposed to new threats. Microsoft recommends updating to the latest operating system, Windows 10.
In November 2019, we wrote about the advantages of buying a new device running Windows 10 and offered some New Computer Hardware Recommendations. Today, let’s take a closer look at what “end of life” means for Windows 7.
“Mainstream” support for Windows 7 ended in early 2015. This refers to major feature updates. In the five years since, Microsoft has maintained “extended” support of the operating system, namely in the form of security updates. These updates patch vulnerabilities found by hackers and researchers alike. New vulnerabilities, which are sure to be found, will be one of the primary risks in continuing to use Windows 7 in 2020 and beyond, as they will not be fixed by Microsoft.
Over time, fewer software and drivers will be made with Windows 7 in mind. This could prevent a business from running the latest software and peripheral devices if their PC is stuck running an increasingly incompatible operating system. Updating to Windows 10 on existing compatible devices, or purchasing new hardware with Windows 10, is highly recommended.
Beyond these more pressing reasons to update, Windows 10 also performs better than Windows 7. The newer operating system is optimized to take advantage of modern hardware in ways Windows 7 cannot. Across all benchmarks, Windows 10 outperforms Windows 7, and will continue to improve via feature updates that Windows 7 has lacked for five years now.
At Layered Systems, we have helped guide our clients through the process of moving to Windows 10 with success and ease. For many businesses, it’s an optimal time to consider moving to new hardware. For others, we help make the in-place upgrade from Windows 7 to 10 as smooth as possible. Contact Us today to learn more about how the “end of life” for Windows 7 may affect your business, and what we can do to help.
