There are a large number of people still using Windows 7. This old operating system still has a market share of 36.9%. That’s a huge percentage when you think that the main support for the operating system was pulled back in 2015. Since then, Microsoft has run an extended support program, but this too is coming to an end in January 2020.

Microsoft will end support for Windows 7 from January 14, 2020. This does give a fair amount of time for users to move onto pastures new and ensure they continue to get support as and when they need it. Windows 10 still has a bad reputation, but it has improved since it was first released.

Windows 7 will continue to work after the support stops but it will not be maintained, resulting in an operating system that is very out of date but more importantly, insecure. Security is vital for businesses of all sizes, which is why making a move to a newer operating system needs to be on the cards.

Option to Pay for Continued Support

Microsoft may continue some support for a few individual cases, such as government entities, however, this will cost the business a huge amount. When Windows XP support ended, the US Navy paid Microsoft over $9 billion in order to continue receiving updates. Should anyone want to pay out for custom support they will still have a set amount, with an extended date of 2023.

If you’re still using Windows 7, we recommend updating sooner rather than later. There are options available for those businesses set on avoiding Windows 10. These operating systems vary on price and you’ll have to check that they are able to manage all your critical applications necessary for running your business. You may find the jump to other operating systems more challenging than simply moving on to the latest OS from Windows.