Today Microsoft Windows 7 pulls the plug and stops support. What’s next now?
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Microsoft is ending support for the following systems:
- Windows 7
- Internet Explorer
- Microsoft Server 2008 and 2008 R2
As an old saying goes, all good things come to an end – like now with Windows 7. When it first appeared on our PCs in October 2009, it was received much better than its predecessor Windows Vista. The popular operating system has sold more than 630 million licenses. It also brought a lot of improvements and a new design. However, Windows is now ending support after more than 10 years and is retiring the operating system.
In December 2019, however, Windows 7 was still open 26 percent of all Windows desktops and laptops used. The number also includes home PCs. What does the end of Windows 7 mean for those who still use this operating system?
Win 7 without updates – easy prey for malware
Above all, it means that your computer is more vulnerable than ever. If Microsoft Windows 7 is no longer updated, you will not receive important security updates or technical support from Microsoft customer service. Microsoft will not prevent you from continuing to use Windows 7, surf the web, or read mail. However, all this goes hand in hand with a much higher risk potential.
Now you could argue that you are using the latest version of a respected security solution. We appreciate your right cybersecurity habits, but unfortunately, it won’t help you if attackers find a new vulnerability in your operating system. If cyber criminals find and exploit vulnerabilities, you will be able to install all sorts of malware on vulnerable computers. These can cause chaos and cause significant damage.
What dangers you can expose yourself to
From a technical point of view, you use a computer that runs with a disused operating system that will no longer be patched in the future. The software that runs on it will probably be updated for a while, but then the update process will be stopped here as well.
As for the operating system itself, it is now becoming increasingly vulnerable to various types of malware and other threats. Examples of dangerous codes that could compromise your computer are ransomware (similar to the one that Cities in Texas last year) or spyware. Computers that use an unpatched system do not have to be victims of such attacks, but they are an ongoing target for them.
Which options you should consider when upgrading
What options do you have now? Simply put, you should ultimately consider upgrading. Biting the bullet and upgrading will save you potential damage from cyberattacks.
If you are thinking about changing the operating system anyway, now is the best time to do it. There are various options available to you. You can choose Linux, which is available under different distributions like Ubuntu or ElementaryOS (alternatively you can this article read where we introduced other distributions).
If you have a creative streak and don’t want to dive into the world of system configurations, a macOS computer would be an alternative for you. If you are an all-rounder, Windows 10 is a good operating system for you.
Unfortunately, the free switch from Windows 7 to Windows 10 is no longer possible. If you want to switch to Windows 10 with your old computer, you should go to the Microsoft recommendations scroll. As you will see, there are a few options available to you – you just have to choose the one that suits you.
More tips for affected companies and private users
- theme Cyber Insurance: Financial damage from cyber attacks can be protected. However, many insurance companies require compliance with current security standards. As of today, Windows 7 is no longer part of it. We recommend an unconditional consultation with the insurance company so that there is no bad awakening in an emergency.
- The GDPR and the end of support: The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) also requires companies to comply with the “state of the art” when processing and using personal data. Theft of personal data can result in a higher fine by the relevant authority if outdated software / operating systems are used.
Conclusion
It is the first step in the right direction when you switch from an outdated, no longer supported operating system to a new one. If you are successful with the change, you have already made good progress with Internet Security. Never underestimate the importance of regularly updating the system – this protects you from notorious dangers like WannaCryptor, Therefore: Always install a serious security solution on your computer, which guarantees your security in the internet world in the long term.
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