It’s down to the wire for Windows 7 support. Security and bug support for the ten-year-old operating system ends on January 14.
That means no more security updates from Microsoft and no more attempts to fix any issues with the operating system. This also means that third-party security software providers won’t have the information necessary to protect your PC. They get their vital information about how to fix security issues from Microsoft and without that proprietary information, they can’t fix things.
It also means Windows 7 PCs will become prime targets for hackers. When security updates come out for Windows 10, they’ll backward-engineer the patches to figure out how to use any vulnerabilities they address to attack Windows 7.
Now, this doesn’t mean Windows 7 PCs are suddenly going to stop working. They are still perfectly fine for using offline, but I wouldn’t connect them to the Internet to either use a browser or receive email.
So what are your options? If your device is compatible with Windows 10, you could upgrade. Or you could switch to the free Linux operating system. Or it may be time to purchase a new PC.
Cyn, is the information you sent in the 12-20 Tech Tips about Microsoft offering security and bug support still valid? Just wanted to be sure you hadn’t gotten anything negative about it. (I have Windows 7 Pro) Thank you!
Penny
Hi Cyn! Does it mean that my Norton anti-virus program won’t be able to protect my PC anymore?
Nothing will be able to provide protection from new threats because they won’t have the necessary information from Microsoft to fix them. It can provide some protection against known issues.