By now you should be aware that Microsoft will stop supporting Windows XP and Office 2003 as of April 8th, 2014.
For those organizations still using Windows XP in particular, this presents a significant security and operational challenge. If your organization has not started the process to a modern desktop, you should seriously consider beginning that process now. According to Microsoft’s historical customer deployment data, the average enterprise deployment can take 18-32 months. It is vital to your business’s security and technical integrity to begin planning and testing immediately to ensure you are able to deploy before Microsoft withdraws its support.
We have also created a short “What’s Up in Tech: Business Edition” video explaining the Windows XP End of Service deadline and some of the dangers associated with not making the transition properly. It features Claris Networks CEO, Aaron Sherrill, and Product Development Specialist, Dan Thompson. If you would rather read this information for yourself, just skip the video and see below.
What effect will this have on me?
There will be no new security updates, no non-security hotfixes, no free or paid support options, and no online technical content updates. Essentially, any machines using Windows XP will be dangerously vulnerable to Malware attacks and data breaches.
- Security & Compliance Risks: Unsupported and unpatched environments are vulnerable to security risks. This may result in an officially recognized control failure by an internal or external audit body, leading to suspension of certifications, and/or public notification of the organization’s inability to maintain its systems and customer information.
- Lack of Independent Software Vendor (ISV) & Hardware Manufacturers support: A recent industry report from Gartner Research suggests “many independent software vendors (ISVs) are unlikely to support new versions of applications on Windows XP in 2011; in 2012, it will become common.” And it may stifle access to hardware innovation: Gartner Research further notes that in 2012, most PC hardware manufacturers will stop supporting Windows XP on the majority of their new PC models.
The one exception
This week, Microsoft announced that it will be extending a limited component of its support through June 2015. However, it will only provide signature updates to the anti-virus engine in XP.
“Enterprise customers will get the updates through System Center Endpoint Protection, Forefront Client Security, Forefront Endpoint Protection and Windows Intune. Consumers holding onto their aging XP computers will get the updates through Security Essentials.” – Antone Gonzalves, CruxialCIO
Does that mean I have an extra year to upgrade?
Sorry, but no. If you are still using XP after April 8th, 2014 you can still expect a significant increase in network and device intrusions. The best thing to do is to transition systems as soon as possible.
Learn more on Microsoft’s website by clicking here.
If you would like help transitioning your organization to an updated Operating System, click here to reach out to us.
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