Windows 7 is predicted to be running on hundreds of millions of computers, but after January 14, 2020, Windows 7 users will no longer have any technical support, software updates, security updates, or fixes, making any user of Windows versions other than Windows 10 very vulnerable to online hackers and other threats.
For a smooth transition – NOW is the time to upgrade to Windows 10!
It’s hard to believe Windows 7 was launched 10 years ago in 2009! Many of us are just getting used to it, and consider it a “modern operating system”, but that won’t be the case for very much longer. While you can pay Microsoft for extended support for Windows 7 until 2023 thanks to the “Extended Security Updates program”, the cost is high and you will still be left in the dust where a current OS is concerned, so you might as well make the necessary change now.
January will be here before we know it, and here’s what you need to know for a smooth transition to the latest version of Windows 10:
Always Backup First
Before installing any major software or operating updates, always backup your computer first. While no major issues have been reported, any update can change security settings, and make other settings and file changes, so backing up first is a smart protocol.
Run a Test Update First
For the most part, Windows 10 updates have been smooth and not interfered with other software, but it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to computer systems. Especially if you run any proprietary or exclusive software on your office computers, make sure Windows 10 runs correctly on one computer, before installing in your whole office. Install the new OS on one workstation first and test it. Once you are sure everything is working properly, you can go ahead and update the office.
Can I just Update from a Pop-Up Prompt?
We’ve all gotten those pop-ups prompting us to “click to update”. They look legitimate, seem like an easy way to get an update accomplished, in fact, most people believe they receive them from their software provider. Unfortunately, many pop-ups are malware in disguise, phishing scams, and will download malicious and dangerous software on your computer the second you authorize it by that acceptance click!
You should absolutely NEVER click on any download prompt you have not verified!
Verify All Updates as Legitimate
Never perform any Windows update or download on your computer that you have verified is legitimate. The best way to do this is to go to your Control Panel – choose Settings, and go to Windows Updates from there. If there is an update ready to install, you will see it in your Windows Control Panel.
50% of Us will Get Hacked this Year!
Be Protected from Hackers
With any discontinued support such as the January 2020 Windows 7 conclusion, hackers know anyone still using the unsupported software are left vulnerable. This will make you an easy target for any number of targeted assaults! It’s predicted that as many as half of all computer devices in America get hacked annually, and much of the time it’s due to the lack of updated software security patches or people clicking on malicious links.
We ensure all of our Managed Services clients have the most updated version of their software and operating systems as part of our monthly services.
Please call us if you have any questions about updates, backing up your system, or antivirus protection – we are here to help!
To learn more about the latest features of the Windows 10 Update, check out this article.
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