So Long, Windows 7
January 2020 will be the end of the road for Windows 7 support from Microsoft. As all good things must come to an end, so must beloved operating systems. Windows 7 has had long standing support behind it from millions of businesses who have been loyal to the OS since it’s introduction. Many have not yet made the switch to Windows 10, citing that they see no reason to leave Windows 7 behind. While there are many reasons to stick by Windows 7, none of them compare to the inevitable benefits and capabilities the next OS will offer as far as support and security for a growing business.
Come January 2020, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes to the OS, therefore pushing the end of its life. Sure, you can carry on using your beloved OS, but just be warned that you will be much more vulnerable to a cyber-attack. If that’s not a position you want to find your business in, you’ll want to begin taking the steps necessary to shift your focus over to Windows 10.
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Currently, Microsoft will still take responsibility for loss of data through their OS because they are currently still running upkeep until the termination date. But once January of 2020 hits, you’ll be using at your own risk. Cybercrime is becoming increasingly common and methods are more intelligent each day. It’s important that your business stays on top of security updates and regulatory patches to prevent a breach.
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So, now that you’re aware of the changes Microsoft is implementing and possibly feeling panicked about having enough time to make the switch to Windows 10, let’s talk about how you can focus your attention on making that adjustment for your business.
The best, and most efficient way to change over, is to seek out the help of your I.T. staff or MSP professional. This way, you can be sure that everything upgrades correctly and that your firewall and anti-virus software continue to do their jobs at optimal performance grade. Each business is different in the type of hardware and software they use, so depending on the types you’re using, you may need to take more specific steps towards moving to Windows 10 and making sure everything is compatible and will cooperate.
Check it out: How To Introduce New Technology Into The Workplace
This might also be a good time to reevaluate the hardware you currently use around the office. Are your computers and devices up to date or are you rocking the beige still? If you still have a beige computer on the desk (or anything older than 3-5 years old), use this opportunity to not only switch to Windows 10, but to invest in some newer equipment that will work more efficiently with the new operating system.
Aside from the obvious security reasons for making the switch to Windows 10, these are a few more differences between the old and the new OS.
1. Speed
Like with most new things, this new OS is much faster than the last. Startup speed and overall performance speed is improved upon. A speedier OS provides employees with greater opportunity for productivity. When your system is slower (Windows 7), you’ll spend time waiting for the system to boot up, wait for a new tab to open, wait for a video to load, etc. Cut the minutes down by upgrading to the newest OS.
2. Cortana
Why not make life easier by speaking to the technology you’re using? Cortana is there to help you keep your hands busy by interacting with your hands free. Need to keep some notes? Make a check list? Or even play some music? Cortana is there to help you and remind you of anything you may have going on during the day according to your calendar or reminders.
3. Action Center
Just like your cellphone, the Windows 10 action center shows pop up messages and notifications. Email messages, news, update notifications, weather, etc. These are examples of things you will see pop up in the action center.
4. Universal Apps
Unfortunately, Windows 7 does not have an app store. However, Windows 10 does. Through the apps store, you’re able to find programs to assist your day to day tasks. The universal aspect of the apps is that they have the capability to work across different platforms (full-screen, touch screen, or even traditional mouse and keyboard).
5. Virtual Desktop
One desktop is so yesterday. Try two desktops, maybe three? Four? Think beyond the simple tab. Sometimes, you need a whole separate desktop. Windows 10 brings the capability for users to move between multiple virtual desktops with just one tap of the task icon.
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