What to Do Now That Windows XP Support Has Ended

Microsoft Windows XP logo

On April 8, 2014, Microsoft shut down support for their Windows XP operating system (OS).

This doesn’t mean that your home computer will “blue screen” and quit working; but it does mean that you have a decision to make if you’re currently running XP on your computer.

How does XP support ending affect me?

What the end of support means for you is, there will be no more “Windows Updates” for XP. This includes the security updates that protect you from viruses, spyware, or malware (malicious software), which puts you at risk for losing your personal information.

Also, other companies that make software programs you may use no longer have to make sure that their products work on XP. So some commonly used programs, like the list below, may quit working on your computer.

  • Accounting programs like Quicken
  • Photo editing programs like Adobe Photoshop
  • Video games

It also means no more “bug fixes,” which are all those little annoying things that sometimes go wrong with your software and annoy the daylights out of you.

What do I do next?

At this point, you really only have two options:

  1. Upgrade the operating system (OS) on your current computer(s) or,
  2. Buy a new computer

If you choose to go with Option 1, upgrading the OS on your current computer, you’ll want to make sure it meets the new OS’s requirements. Thankfully, Microsoft makes this one pretty easy for you with a “Compatibility Checker.” This program will scan your hardware and software and tell you what will and won’t work if you upgrade your current system.

If you choose to go with Option 2, buying a new computer, be sure to back your data up before moving it to the new system.

And as always, we’re here to help or answer your questions. If you’re stuck or have any questions, we’re just an email or phone call 1-888-863-3033 away!

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