- Cybersecurity, IT Security, Network Security

Prepare Your Security for Windows 7 End-of-Life Support

Back in 2017, Microsoft set a deadline for Windows 7 end-of-life support in the year 2020. That deadline is almost upon us, and many organizations’ systems are not ready. The most essential thing to know right now is not to panic; computers running on Windows 7 are still going to work. Microsoft is also going to continue to offer security updates for the operating system whose life ends on Jan. 14. The problems begin to arise when we consider the security threats that haven’t shown their faces yet.

Across the world, Windows 7 is one of the most used versions of Windows. This fact alone makes it a ripe target for hackers and most kinds of internet hazards. In the past, Microsoft would respond to every newly discovered weakness with a new patch. As the attackers found new loopholes, the experts at Microsoft would close it up behind them, limiting the damage and ensuring others would not be able to use the same methods.

As managed security support for Windows 7 ends, new threats and dangers won’t be addressed. New vulnerabilities won’t be automatically patched, and your systems will be left without their adaptive security guard. The worse news? Cybersecurity attackers pay close attention to these kinds of announcements because it lets them know whom to target. As the years go on, Windows 7 is only going to become more vulnerable and easier to invade.

My Business Uses Windows 7—What Can I Do?

This drop is security patches is a big deal, but it’s not a hopeless situation. For many organizations, the Windows 7 to 10 upgrade is something they want to do, but can’t afford at the moment. Upgrading Windows 7 to Windows 10 is not just a simple download. Even if you can afford it, there are still challenges in a transition like that. You have to be sure all your current applications will transfer and still function well on the new operating system.

Your company also has to have precautions in place so no data is lost in the transition. Depending on the applications and services you use, keeping Windows 7, for the time being, might be the best option. To know the correct path for your operations, you need an expert at your side. Outsource My IT is the perfect partner to manage your move to Windows 10.

Make Outsource My IT Your Managed Service Provider

Long-term hurdles like this require a service company that offers more than your typical break/fix strategies. Outsource My IT is a managed service provider (MSP) that understands the changing landscape of technology and is prepared to craft a unique solution for your organization. We will work to get to know the details of your operation, business objectives, and budgetary limitations.

Then, our team will build recommendations on what will build the brightest future for your company. As for the Windows 7 issues, we have the tools and expertise to help you maintain the security of your systems. We can also aid you in upgrading to Windows 10 without risking the integrity of your data.

Managing Your Windows 7 to 10 Upgrade Smoothly and Efficiently

In some cases, you can actually pay extra for a customized extended support plan from Microsoft. However, this strategy will become costly and is not the best way to manage your system for the future. Many small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) or even enterprises will end up paying these fees to cover themselves during the transition. Outsource My IT is equipped to manage your upgrade quickly and efficiently.

Our team will make sure all of your applications will still function correctly on the new operating system. If you’re taking advantage of cloud services, we will ensure all of your data remains actionable and secure. Once you’ve hired us, you will also have access to our other services, including disaster recoverydata backup, and email security. Features like these will strengthen your security posture during this time of transition.

While we manage the transition, we will take this opportunity to streamline your operations by removing any unnecessary devices or legacy software that’s still hanging on. We run through this process of optimization so that, once you’ve made the move, your organization will be equipped to hit the ground running better than ever before.

To learn more about how we can help you upgrade your operating systems, reach out to Outsource My IT today.