How to Handle Microsoft Windows 7 End of Support
As Windows 7 faces imminent retirement, we thought we’d explore the many reasons why proactive migration to Windows 10 makes the best business sense.
Did you know that one of the most popular operating systems in the world, Windows 7, is set to reach it’s “end of support” phase on January 14th, 2020. “End of support” is a term popularized by Microsoft that means, once that date is reached, the company will no longer provide patches to fix new problems or security vulnerabilities.
With Windows 7 soon gone, now is the time to start planning your migration to the newest version, Windows 10. There are many good reasons for a business to make the switch from Windows 7 to 10 on time, here are some of the most important ones.
Windows 7 Will Soon be a Major Security Liability
In hacker terminology, a “zero-day vulnerability,” is a newly discovered software flaw or loophole that can be exploited to install malicious code or steal data. Because of the dark web, these vulnerabilities can be promulgated across the underground quicker than ever before, a situation that has contributed to a sharp rise in cyber attack against small and mid-sized businesses.
Once Windows 7 is no longer receiving security patches or updates, any new security flaws will essentially go unaddressed by Microsoft, which means any business still using it past the January 14th deadline will be much more vulnerable to cyber attack.
In contrast, Windows 10 has been designed from the ground up with security in mind. This includes a new, biannual update schedule to better account for the latest threats, three methods of login for greater security, and a stronger, more robust Windows Defender (now renamed Windows Security) that unifies Microsoft’s new network security tools in a single location.
Proactive Migration Saves you Time and Money
A system migration from Windows 7 to a newer operating system is inevitable. The best way to deal with this situation is with a head-on, proactive approach, in which you and your staff start the process early and allow ample time to make the transition a smooth one.
Why does proactive migration make the most business sense? Here are a few reasons.
Migration planning takes time
Migrating all your PCs to a new operating system is a time-consuming task that must be approached carefully over the course of several months. Many organizations haven’t done a wide-scale operating system upgrade before and lack the people and processes to make the transition efficient. Starting early allows you to build out those processes, delegate responsibility, and train users in the new system without hurting company productivity.
Accounting for software updates
Windows 7 was such a success that many companies have built their entire network around it, including 3rd party applications and custom software. These may not be immediately compatible with Windows 10, and may require significant updates or even replacement. For these reasons, the migration process should involve a careful analysis of all your applications to determine how each system will be affected. Failing to properly analyze your line of business applications can easily lead to IT downtime or problems that cost your business valuable productivity.
Post-Migration Testing
Many organizations will choose to pursue a “phased migration” strategy, that migrates PCs and servers to the latest operating system in groups. Even with this approach, you should plan for an ample testing stage to ensure that employee data is intact and accessible, application data has all been imported correctly, and that the migration hasn’t disrupted system stability.
Windows 10 is Built for Modern Productivity
Migrating from Windows 7 to 10 isn’t just about security and stability. Windows 10 has been designed to help businesses take advantage of the latest developments in workplace productivity, which means companies who make the transition will enjoy streamlined efficiency, stronger collaboration, and many other benefits.
Below are a few ways that Windows 10 can help small and mid-sized businesses work faster and with greater flexibility.
- Improved end-user performance
Everything from boot-up time to the transition between applications has been optimized on Windows 10, providing a faster, more efficient user experience without upgrading hardware. Improving technology performance over an entire organization helps speed work and improves employee morale. - A strong foundation for cloud computing
Deep integration with the latest generation of productivity applications — like Microsoft Office 365, OneDrive, and SharePoint — means businesses that make the switch to Windows 10 position themselves for cloud computing success. That means stronger, more secure data sharing, greater mobility, and more. - A single interface for all devices
Unlike Windows 7, Windows 10 has been built to work on a variety of devices, including tablets and laptops. Once you’ve upgraded, your employees can switch between devices easily without having to figure out a new interface during already stressful moments, like presentations or speeches.
Want to Migrate from Windows 7 to 10? INCTech is Here to Help
With over 20 years helping small and midsized businesses in Los Angeles manage their network technology, INCTech understands the stress and worry that an operating system migration can cause. If you want an expert to ensure your migration goes smoothly, our friendly and reliable experts are here to help.
Contact us any time with your questions or concerns, at either 800.33.2989 or info@inctech.net.
We look forward to speaking with you!
