As you may have already learned, Microsoft will be discontinuing support for Windows 7 and their Server 2008 Operating Systems on January 14, 2020. This means all product support for applications and software updates from Windows Update, that help protect Desktops/Laptops and Servers, will no longer be available for those Operating Systems.
Computer Business has compiled a FAQ to help guide you through this process.
Why is Microsoft not supporting their older products?
Microsoft is constantly developing newer technologies and is allocating their resources towards the development of those technologies.
What do I do with my existing older Windows 7 and Server 2008 systems?
Microsoft recommends upgrading or replacing your Desktops and Laptops to Windows 10 and your Servers to Server 2016 or 2019. Often moving to new hardware will be the recommended path forward. Today’s PCs and Servers are faster, lightweight, more powerful, and more secure, with an average price that’s considerably less than that of eight years ago.
For the Servers, there is an option to migrate to cloud-based solutions and avoid the costs of buying new servers. Computer Business can provide you with a cost analysis and assist or manage this process for you.
What does end of support mean for me?
After January 14, 2020, Windows 7 & Server 2008 will no longer receive security updates. Therefore, it’s important that to upgrade to a modern operating system which can provide the latest security updates. Support for most applications will also no longer be available. As newer technologies are developed in software and database programs and as third-party software and apps are developed, they will not be focused on supporting older Operating Systems.
Can I upgrade my existing PC to Windows 10?
To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, we recommend moving to a new PC with Windows 10. As an alternative, compatible Windows 7 PCs can be upgraded by purchasing and installing a full version of the Windows 10. This will require several hours of IT services to accomplish and may be more costly than replacing the hardware.
Windows 10 upgrade is free?
The Windows 10 free upgrade offer ended on July 29, 2016. To get Windows 10 you will need to either purchase a new device or, if you have a compatible PC, purchase a full version of the OS to upgrade your existing device. We recommend that you don’t install Windows 10 on an older device, as some Windows 7 devices are not compatible with Windows 10 or could experience reduced feature availability.
Can Windows 7 and Server 2008 still be activated after January 14, 2020?
Both Windows 7 and Server 2008 can be installed and activated after end of support; however, they will be vulnerable to security risks and viruses due to the lack of security updates.
Who should I call to help transition my business to the latest Operating Systems?
Finding the right IT Company to guide your business through this process can be difficult. Computer Business has the experience and resources to ensure the transition to Windows 10 and Server 2016 or Server 2019 is done with the highest level of quality and efficiency while working within your budget.
Contact us by visiting www.ComputerBusiness.com or by calling our service team at 407-654-5600.