April 8, 2014, that’s the date on everyone’s minds and if it’s not and you are still using Windows XP computers and/or Office 2003, then it should be. That’s the date that Microsoft will cease to support Windows XP and Office 2003. Windows XP has been the operating system of choice for a number of years, however, it is coming to an end. For some time now, the end has been in sight (we’ve posted articles on our Facebook page over the past few months discussing this very topic)
What does this mean?
Well, it doesn’t mean that your computer is going to suddenly explode. You will however, have that feeling of being stranded on a deserted Island with only a soccer ball to keep you company and with no chance of being rescued.
As at April 8, 2014, Microsoft will release no further patches, fixes and security updates or provide any support for Windows XP. This operating system is nearly 12 years old. The technology is old and Microsoft have Windows 7 and 8 in the market that they will continue to support for a number of years.
Therefore, if you stay on Windows XP, you will be vulnerable to security threats such as viruses and malware etc. The experts are predicting that programmers are going to specifically target XP computers and release threats after the end of support date. There will be little to no way to stop these attacks.
Further, many third party suppliers such as MYOB and Leap Legal, to name but 2, will also no longer support users with XP computers, Windows Server 2003 and Office 2003. They will also, no longer issue program updates to help you run your programs on the old systems. Therefore, they will no longer guarantee the stability of your programs.
What options do I have?
You can (only if your system requirements permit) upgrade your software on your XP Computers to Windows 7 or 8.1 but if your system requirements are not up to specification, you will need to update your hardware.
In most cases, if you’re still running XP, your computers are at least 4 years old, they are likely to be running slow, you could be experiencing “lagging” and the system is “crashing” more often (not to mention, you’re probably also running out of space, if you haven’t already).
What can you do?
Talk to Consulting IT, you do have options that can suit your needs and we can help you determine which is the best course for you and your business.
However, now is the time to act whilst you still have time to plan and phase in your changes, as well as adjust your budgets accordingly.
Below are some other articles if you wish to read further on this topic.
http://tinyurl.com/q5dn9n9 – MYOB community Blog
http://tinyurl.com/pn3rzcw – PC World
http://tinyurl.com/mnn29f6 – microsoft.com