Time is running out for Windows XP. Not even half a month left when almost thirteen-year-old “Windows XP” will die. It is going to breathe its last on April 8, 2014. After this date, Microsoft has no plans to support Windows XP operating system. It will stop issuing security updates and the technical support as well.
As more as 29% of computers globally are still running Windows XP, which makes it the world’s second most widely used operating system, just behind Windows 7. Using XP after April 8 has some real dangerous consequences to it. These unsupported and insecure machines pose a serious threat to the internet and other high-tech infrastructure. Windows XP computers will be more susceptible to malware and viruses because Microsoft would no longer be supporting XP. No one can tell what level of harm cybercriminals can cause.
The Windows XP end would affect companies more than the consumers. Research estimates that 20% of North American and European corporate computers are still using Windows XP. Only 6% of those companies’ PCs will be running Windows XP by April. The majority of large Western businesses have already upgraded to Windows 7 or Windows 8, but small businesses have been slower at switching.
Microsoft has planned to get away with Windows XP because it is significantly less secure than its successors. Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8 include security features and controls designed to thwart or reduce the impact of attacks. There are many flaws in XP as compared to present scenario, and the reason behind its 13-year long life is the trustworthy computing of Microsoft.
The bottom line is that Microsoft is doing us all a favor by killing Windows XP. XP has lasted far longer than other window versions in the past. Now it is proving to be hazardous for the Microsoft’s security reputation. By this gesture, Microsoft is just making Internet more secure.
Therefore, it is high time to upgrade your OS. If you still continue to use Windows XP after support ends, your computer will work but it might become more vulnerable to malware attacks and viruses. Another big problem that you might encounter is the number of apps and devices that are not Windows XP friendly.
If you have any family member or a friend using Windows XP, try to enlighten them on this issue and convince them to upgrade Windows 7 or 8 as their operating system.
