If you’re still using Windows 7 then you need to be aware that free support ends in less than a year. Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 7 for free on January 14, 2020, and at that point this popular operating system will become increasingly unsafe to use.
All versions of Windows have a limited shelf life. And while they don’t disappear, a lack of new features and security updates leave them woefully outdated. As the last version of Windows, Windows 10 may be the exception to the rule, but Windows 7’s time is up.
The End of Windows 7 Is Nigh
On January 14, 2020, Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 7. Mainstream supported ended in 2015, but Windows 7 has carried on receiving security updates thanks to extended support. When that ends in 2020, Windows 7 will remain as it is.
Businesses will be able to pay Microsoft for continued Windows 7 support. However, this option isn’t available to consumers. Which means you’ll have to choose between using an unsupported operating system, upgrading to Windows 10, or switching OSes.
Provide the most secure experience for users and IT as Windows 7 and Office 2010 reach end of support starting Jan 14, 2020. Shift to a modern desktop by upgrading to #Microsoft365. Explore now: https://t.co/Z14tra6oSq
— Microsoft 365 (@Microsoft365) January 14, 2019
With less than a year to go there are still millions of people using Windows 7. Just as millions of people carried on using Windows XP beyond its prime. Microsoft is hoping those individuals will upgrade to Windows 10, but there’s no guarantee that will happen.
While many will upgrade, others will carry on using Windows 7 regardless. And that isn’t advisable over the longterm when with each passing month Windows 7 is likely to get more insecure and more buggy, with no updates being released to fix it.
Start Looking Beyond Windows 7
There’s no need to panic. Windows 7 is still good for a year, and it won’t suddenly become unusable on January 15, 2020. However, Windows 7 users need to at least start thinking about their options, as Windows 7 will soon be old, outdated, and off Microsoft’s radar.
It should be noted that Windows 10 isn’t perfect, which is why a lot of people have delayed upgrading. However, time is running out, so you should consider upgrading to Windows 10. And if you hate Windows 10, why not consider buying a Chromebook instead.
Image Credit: Imilyas/Flickr
Read the full article: Windows 7 Support Ends in Less Than a Year
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