What does ‘End of Support’ Mean? An unsupported version of Windows will no longer receive software updates from Windows Update. These include security updates that can help protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software, which can steal your personal information. Windows Update also installs the latest software updates to improve the reliability of Windows—new drivers for your hardware and more.
What are the risks that businesses face by staying on Windows XP? Since there will be no scheduled security patches after next April, companies continuing to run Windows XP face the risk of targeted hacking attacks. SMBs are often targeted because they lack sufficient protection, and cybercriminals sometimes use them as a stepping stone to larger targets. 2012 saw a 30 percent increase in web-based attacks, and it’s possible many of these used the compromised website of a small business to attack a larger organization (Symantec study, 2012). Are there hidden costs to staying on Windows XP after the end of support date? Yes, staying on Windows XP after the end of support date means paying for:
- Virtualizing the entire OS to remain compliant with the Microsoft end user license agreement (EULA) (only valid while there’s Server 2003 support available)
- Running XP in a sandboxed environment
- Mobile Device Management
- Increased IT Support