Official support for Windows XP ended in 2014. A year on, in this article we talk about what might persuade you to make the jump and leave Windows XP behind.
Well, the first thing is don’t panic!
You might see a message saying something like your version of Windows is no longer supported, but here is not a huge security risk in continuing to run Windows XP so long as you:
- install appropriate Windows and application updates
- make regular backups of all important data
- and use up-to-date anti-virus software
What if I don’t want to upgrade?
That’s fine – particularly if you don’t use your XP computer to browse the web. Windows XP itself won’t suddenly stop working, so XP-compatible apps with Windows XP will continue to work while the computer they live on survives.
However, it will become harder to find printers and other accessories compatible with your ageing Windows XP machines. It’s becoming harder for software providers to develop products compatible with the Windows XP environment, so newer software – particularly web browsers and even certain web sites – will increasingly remove support.
Should you upgrade Windows without upgrading your computer?
Almost never. Upgrading Windows will almost aways make your computer run slower! Minor operating system upgrades like if you have a computer with Windows 8 upgrading to Windows 8.1 are the only upgrades that we would recommend you do without upgrading your computer hardware at the same time.
Buying a new computer today – should you choose Windows 7, 8 … or Windows 10?
It depends on what software you are wanting to use. For most home users, Windows 8 is a safe and easy choice because most computers sold in retail stores come pre-installed with Windows 8 and it will be compatible with the widest range of new hardware devices like printers and scanners. In a home environment the main reason not to go with Windows 8 is the quite different user interface. The familiar start button was taken away in Windows 8.0 and only partially restored in Windows 8.1. Rumoured to be due for release in late July Windows 10 will be different again, returning the start menu to its more “appreciated” location on the desktop and adding more features.
For most business users Windows 7 remains the preferred version due to better compatibility with business software applications and it’s familiar look and feel. Another consideration for business users is to make sure that the “Pro” version of Windows is purchased as this provides better support for networking computers.
If not now (as recommended by Microsoft), then when should I upgrade my Windows XP computer?
Before the end of 2015 would be a good guide for most people – sooner if:
- a software package that you use no longer is supported on Windows XP – this is becoming the case for many versions of MYOB for example
- your computer is showing any signs of problems or unreliability
Often you do get some warning signs of impending computer trouble – you get to know the whats “normal” for your computer and if things go noticeably slower or crash regularly then it’s always better to upgrade your computer while the old one is still working rather than waiting for it to completely fail which leads to a more urgent and often more costly upgrade.
The team at New Age Solutions deliver hassle-free upgrades to Windows 7, Windows 8 and soon Windows 10 for businesses of all sizes. We also specialise in whole-of-fleet upgrades that reduce cost and increase reliability by keeping all your PCs on the same version.
Get in touch by calling 3421 5700 or emailing sales@nas.com.au to discover a solution that works for you.