If you are using Windows 7 machines, YOU MUST start planning on replacing or upgrading before January 2020. Some business owners are still using Windows 7 after all these years. That’s because it has been one of the most successful operating systems ever developed by Microsoft. When Windows 8 came out and disappointed so many users, people just went back to Windows 7 and have kept using it to this day. But now Microsoft says that all support for this OS will end. If your company is still using Windows 7, you need to start preparing now to upgrade.
Why Is Microsoft So Insistent That You Must Upgrade Now?
Beginning in April, if you’ve been using Windows 7, you can expect to receive popup notifications on your PC. This is a courtesy reminder to upgrade that you will receive from Microsoft during the remainder of 2019.
By starting the reminders now, Microsoft's hope is that you have time to plan and prepare for this transition. These notifications are designed to help provide information only. If you prefer not to receive them, you’ll be able to select an option for “do not notify me again,” and Microsoft won't send you any further reminders.
Why Do We Think That You Should Upgrade Now?
January 2020 will be the end of the line for Windows 7. Microsoft will no longer support this product with security updates and bug fixes. As we near the End of Life, it's essential to begin planning for the change.
If you and your employees have relied on this product for years, then it may be difficult to make the switch– but it would be detrimental to your company to continue using an operating system that no longer gets regular updates.
At the End of Life, users will no longer be able to enjoy all the features and security that Windows 7 was so famous for. You’ll begin to experience problems that can’t be resolved. If you call for IT support, it will cost more because the product is no longer supported by Microsoft.
There are lots of issues to watch for if you don’t upgrade, including:
- Software, utilities, and features that may become incompatible.
- New devices like printers that will have trouble connecting with Windows 7.
- Online banking transaction systems that will expire if their authentication and encryption methods can no longer be supported by Windows 7.
- Antivirus that won't be updated, and third-party virus protection software that will eventually stop supporting Windows 7.
- Software bug fixes that will no longer be patched, leaving the system open to exploitation.
What Other Security Problems Will You Face If You Don’t Upgrade To Windows 10?
The most serious issues involve cybersecurity. Hackers already know that Windows 7 has become vulnerable and they will seek out ways to exploit those weaknesses.
This will leave your system susceptible to ransomware, malware, and viruses. The probability of suffering from a cyberattack that renders your computers unusable will continue to increase with time. All of your data could be at risk.
What Are The Benefits Of Upgrading To Windows 10?
Upgrading to Windows 10:
- Makes computers run smoother and faster.
- Provides a more economical use of memory and disk space.
- Improves security.
- Boots up your computer from sleep mode faster than before.
- Provides many other benefits.
You can also benefit from features that Windows 7 doesn't provide:
- Cortana – a personal assistant that runs on artificial intelligence (AI).
- Search the Web right from your desktop.
- Get reminders based on time, places, or people.
- Quickly add a virtual desktop.
- Windows Apps - new applications that are available for all of your devices.
- Edge - A new browser that's better suited to the modern web.
- Track packages, teams, interests, and flights.
- Create and manage lists.
- Chit chat and play games.
- Find facts, files, places, and information fast.
- Open any application on your system.
With Windows 10's new application programming interface called Windows RunTime, your Windows Store Apps are remotely installed and updated. They can also be cleanly uninstalled.
There are RunTime apps for Mail, Photos, Maps, Calendar, Groove Music and more. And you can easily download any of the 700,000 applications from the Windows Store.
How Long Will It Take To Upgrade To Windows 10?
This depends on the age of your computer and how it's configured. It should only take an hour to do after you've downloaded the operating system. New devices upgrade much faster. This is another reason to consider a new computer if it's three years old or older.
What Are Your Options?
Microsoft consistently works to make Windows 10 better. They obviously learned their lesson with Windows 8 and haven’t made such a blunder since then.
Most users say they love Windows 10 and would recommend it. It has built-in security features that are much more effective than anything they've provided in the past. But it's crucial to start migrating to the new operating system now.
As the time approaches for Windows 7 End of Life, those who wait until the last minute may find it hard to get the help that they need to migrate all their files and documents over to a new system.
There’s usually a rush period when managed IT service companies are working day and night to help those companies that wait until the last minute. That’s why experts recommend not waiting.
Naturally, your staff will need some time to get trained on the new operating system. For all those who have used Microsoft products over the years, it won’t be as difficult. But there are always Mac users and people without good computer skills who will need training.
How Do You Migrate From Windows 7 To Windows 10?
- Before migrating, perform an inventory of software and group each application into one of three groups: unwanted, optional, or required. Some software may require an upgrade to run on the newer operating system.
- Next, prepare a similar inventory of your hardware. As with the software, some hardware may need to be updated or replaced to remain compatible with the new operating system.
- Check the requirements of the replacement operating system, paying special attention to available hard drive space, physical memory, and processor needs.
- If you’re using older computers, many experts recommend purchasing new ones that come preinstalled with Windows 10. Of course, you’ll still have to move all of your files and apps over, but newer computers with Windows 10 will perform much better. Investing in better technology for your business is usually a great idea.
Should You Purchase A New Computer?
It's not too early to upgrade to Windows 10. Just be sure that your hardware will support it. Just as software has changed over the years, so has the hardware.
If you're using Windows 7, purchasing a new device with the Windows 10 operating system is recommended. Today's computers are faster, more powerful and durable.
To learn more about the latest line-up of modern PCs and information for moving from Windows 7 to Windows 10, just click on the “learn more” button on the popup notifications that you’ll be getting from Microsoft.
Newer computers also have longer battery life and provide increased security. Modern computers are typically less expensive than they were eight years ago. The total cost of ownership studies concludes that it's wise to replace your computers at least every three years.
What’s The Bottom Line?
With the End of Life of Windows 7 quickly approaching, it’s important that you begin migrating over to Windows 10 now. Failure to upgrade will lead to serious issues with performance, compatibility and security. The security risks alone could put all your data in danger from hackers.
Do You Have More Questions About Upgrading To Windows 10?
If you aren’t convinced that YOU MUST start planning on replacing or upgrading from Windows 7 before January 2020, visit our Blog. Every Windows operating system has a lifecycle–and you must be aware of important lifecycle dates to help you make informed decisions about when to upgrade or make other changes to your software or hardware.
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