• Windows XP End Of Life

I wanted to remind all of our customers about the upcoming End Of Life date for Windows XP systems.  Microsoft originally released Windows XP in October of 2001, and will no longer be supporting the Windows XP operating system as of April 8^th, 2014.  There are a few different reasons why you should upgrade your computers now:

First, when Microsoft stops their support, it means there will no longer be any security updates or patches provided for Windows XP machines.  These are the monthly updates that can be set to download automatically on your PCs to protect them from security risks and viruses.  A PC that goes without updates for any period of time becomes much more open to exploits and malware.  Also, after the deadline, Microsoft will no longer provide support options or online technical content information.

Secondly, software and hardware vendors are optimizing their programs to work with Windows 7 and 8.1.  This means that many of the software programs you use will no longer be compatible with Windows XP.  You won’t be able to receive support for them if they should fail.

Third, if you are a company that must abide by HIPAA/HITECH regulations, you will need to upgrade any XP systems, as we have mentioned in our website’s blog here.  With no support from Microsoft, the Windows XP operating system will no longer be compliant with HIPAA regulations.

And lastly, it’s important to keep your PCs up-to-date, simply to keep your business running at its optimal level.  Windows XP is an older operating system and lacks some of the new functions and technological ability that Windows 7 and 8.1 have.  Your PCs may already possess the necessary requirements for an upgrade to Windows 7 or 8.1, but if not, purchasing a new computer is a good idea.  Technology is always growing, and keeping up with it means that Windows XP is no longer a viable solution for businesses.

Don’t wait until the last minute to make sure your computers are up-to-date.  Our goal is to make your computer network as efficient and secure as possible, and the best way to do this is to upgrade now.  Please feel free to call or email us if you’d like to discuss what the Windows XP End of Life news means for your company.  As always, we are here to help!

Rose