Unsupported Versions of Windows Paves Way for Upgrades

With advancements in technology on the rise, certain programs are outdated.  Windows XP, the program that Microsoft no longer provides most updates and support, day by day becomes more vulnerable.  The end of life for Windows XP happened on April 8th, 2014, which spells increasing risks for your business if you decide to keep running it.

According to Microsoft, anti-virus companies and security analysts, continuing to use XP without patch support or anti-malware updates will increase the likelihood of security threats and viruses on your PC.  Now that your unsupported Windows XP software will no longer give the protection you deserve, you may be asking yourself: What can I do now?

One of Microsoft’s newer operating systems, Windows 7, has the same functions as Windows XP and Vista, in addition to features that will make your PC experience easier and more secure than ever. More importantly, they have the very latest in security measures implemented for your protection will ensure a safe, virtual environment for your business.

How Do I Upgrade to Windows 7?

There are two ways of obtaining Windows 7. The first would be to:

Upgrade your PC

If you are not yet ready to part ways with your old PC, your first option is to upgrade your existing PC from its outdated state. Keep in mind that older PC’s might not be able to run the Windows 8.1 upgrade. The best way to determine your PC’s compatibility is to download and run the Windows Upgrade Assistant. The Windows Upgrade Assistant will check if your PC meets the system requirements needed for the upgrade and provide a compatibility report. PC ‘s running Windows XP or Vista are not perfectly designed for the Windows 7, so it is highly recommended that you utilize the Windows Upgrade Assistant before installing the Windows 7 upgrade. This will check your computer’s specifications, hardware and software against the recommendations for Windows 7, to make sure your user experience will be satisfactory.  If certain components, such as RAM, are low, it will advise on needed upgrades.

Get a New PC

If your PC isn’t compatible with Windows 7, it may be time to shop around for a new PC.  The price of the average PC is way more affordable today than they were a decade ago.  With that in mind, you can afford to purchase a PC that is lightweight, powerful, and ensures the highest level of security.  Some of the newest programs just won’t run on XP or Vista.  If you have one or two older programs, Windows 7 has XP Mode, which creates an environment for older programs to run in.

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Jeffery Travis is the founder of Endeavor Services Group. He handles a variety of responsibilities at the company, including corporate strategy, organizational development and performance goals. He has worked with companies ranging from small businesses, non-profits to multi-billion-dollar corporations through the US developing and delivering services that improve the use of technology while mitigating risk.

Jeffery launched his IT career working for GE Capital, then moved on to become a founder and Managing Director of GL Solutions. He holds a BS in Organizational Management from Keuka College, an AAS in Business Management from Dean College and served six years in the Massachusetts National Guard as a 76Y and 76V.

Outside of work, Jeffery is the Founder and Executive Director for Miracle Fest, Inc., that hosts an annual community fundraiser in Corning, NY. When he’s not giving back, he’s spending time with his family, kayaking, hiking, fishing and coaching youth sports.