Window’s 7 EOL of Life Is Coming Soon, But There’s Still Time to Prepare

14th on a Calendar

The January 14th is almost here.

January 14, 2020 will be here in less than three short months, and there are probably many out there that haven’t prepared to make the switch off Windows 7 (or Windows Server 2008 which also ends support on the same day). In fact, an estimated 32.8% of all PCs running Windows are still running Windows 7.

We know it can seem like a hassle to upgrade and you may be thinking what’s the harm in leaving my computer as is? We’d like to explain why that’s a bad idea and simple steps you can take to make the migration off Windows 7 easier.

If you stay on Windows 7 after support ends your PC will still work, but it will be more vulnerable to malware and other security risks. Regular Windows updates provide crucial protection to exploits that may especially exploit vulnerabilities in your operating system or programs run by that operating system.

Hackers may also choose to target those who have decided to stay with Windows 7 after January 14th. You may find yourself up creek without a paddle if something happens to your PC after Windows support ends.

It doesn’t have to be this way though, making the switch from Windows 7 will probably not be as difficult as you may be expecting. In fact, a Windows 7 client upgrade may take an hour - or less - if your computer has a solid state drive (SSD).

If you have an older mechanical drive it may take a bit longer, but it is probably not the multi-day event you may have been expecting.

You shouldn’t attempt an update from Windows 7 to Windows 10 without a backup, and this is an excellent time to review your backup plan in general (especially if you don’t have one!). You most likely will not lose any files though and should find yourself up and running the same day with a brand new and more secure operating system.

We’d like to take the time to note that migration from Windows 2008 server to newer editions of Windows server is a more complicated process that should not be attempted without professional help.

If you own or work for a business in Central California, Valley TechLogic can assist you with this task. Reach out to us today at 209-357-3121.

This article was powered by Valley TechLogic, an IT provider in Atwater, CA. You can also reach us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ or on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/valleytechlogic.