They're fantastic, wish I would have started using them sooner!Michael C., Memphis, TN
Attention all PC users, Microsoft is preparing to end its 10-year product support cycle for Windows 7. The change is scheduled to happen on January 14, 2020, rounding out a decade since the product’s original release in October 2009. After this date, software updates from Microsoft Update will no longer be available for this product, potentially putting your PC at risk. That is why Microsoft is strongly urging its Windows 7 customers to upgrade to a Windows 10 version of the product before the deadline. So if you are a Windows 7 user, what does this change really mean for you? And, more importantly, what measures can you take to make sure your technology is supported and protected? Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Windows 7 support below.
Windows 7 Support FAQ
I use Windows 7, what does this mean for me?
If you’re still running your PC on Windows 7 after January 14, 2020, it will no longer receive security updates. That means it's important that you upgrade to a more modern operating system – such as Windows 10 – that can provide the latest security updates and help protect your data from risk. But it doesn’t just stop at security. Technical support for Windows 7 will also be ending on that above-stated date, while any other related services will continue to be discontinued over time. For instance, games such as Internet Backgammon, Internet Checkers as well as the Electronic Program Guide for Windows Media Center are also scheduled to be cancelled in January 2020.
What should I do now?
Let’s face it, today’s PCs are faster, lighter and more powerful than their older counterparts. These newer models are more secure and also considerably lower in average price than the computers dating from ten years ago. That is why, for most Windows 7 users, upgrading to a new device with Windows 10 is the most effective solution for moving forward. While a new PC with Windows 10 will allow you to take full advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, there does exist an alternative. All compatible Windows 7 PCs can also be upgraded to Windows 10 by purchasing and installing a full version of the software. The new software will set you back $139. You can read about Windows 10 upgrade FAQ to find more information.
What should I do now?
Let’s face it, today’s PCs are faster, lighter and more powerful than their older counterparts. These newer models are more secure and also considerably lower in average price than the computers dating from ten years ago. That is why, for most Windows 7 users, upgrading to a new device with Windows 10 is the most effective solution for moving forward. While a new PC with Windows 10 will allow you to take full advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, there does exist an alternative. All compatible Windows 7 PCs can also be upgraded to Windows 10 by purchasing and installing a full version of the software. The new software will set you back $139. You can read about Windows 10 upgrade FAQ to find more information.
Can I get a free Windows 10 upgrade?
Sadly, the answer is no. It’s true, Microsoft did offer a free Windows 10 upgrade, but that offer unfortunately expired back in July 2016. That means to get Windows 10 you either have to purchase a new PC or – if your device is compatible – buy and download a full version of the software to upgrade your existing one. Just be warned, it is not recommended to install Windows 10 on older devices. That’s because certain older models running on Windows 7 may not be compatible with the newer version and could suffer from a reduced availability in features as a result.
Can I keep using Windows 7?
So do you absolutely have to go through with the upgrade? Well, there’s not really a straightforward answer. True, your PC will still technically work if you continue to run Windows 7 after support has ended, but it will no longer receive important software security updates from Microsoft. As time goes on, this will make your computer increasingly more vulnerable to security risks and viruses.
Can I still activate Windows 7 after January 14, 2020?
Microsoft strongly suggests that you use Windows 10 instead of Windows 7 going forward. With that being said, Windows 7 will still be available for install and activation after the end of support date. It will, however, be at an increased risk and vulnerable to security risks and viruses due to the lack of proper security updates.
Will my Internet Explorer still be supported on Windows 7?
As a part of Windows, Internet Explorer follows the “support lifecycle” of the Windows operating system it is installed on. Like other services, support for Internet Explorer on Windows 7 devices will also be discontinued on January 14, 2020.
Can I move my existing programs to a new Windows 10 PC?
Holding on to outdated software may not be in your best interest. For optimal performance, it is highly recommended to freshly install all your programs and apps on a new Windows 10 PC. You can find a ton of third-party apps available for download on the Microsoft Store by simply opening the Microsoft Store on your Windows 10 PC. To do so, just click the icon on the taskbar or search for "Microsoft Store" in the search box within the same taskbar. If you are looking for software not currently available on the Microsoft Store, try going directly to the company’s official website and downloading an updated Windows 10 version from there. Just keep in mind, there may be some websites that have yet to offer an updated version.
Is my PC still protected by Microsoft Security Essentials after end of support?
Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) will continue to receive signature updates after January 14, 2020, but the MSE platform will no longer be updated. If this pertains to you, click here to learn more about Microsoft Security Essentials.
What if I'm running my business on Windows 7?
If you are using Windows as part of a work environment, you should consult with your IT department or see Windows 10 deployment support to learn more.
How will the change affect my current Microsoft Office apps?
This will differ greatly from person-to-person depending on what Office version you are running. All updated versions of your favorite Microsoft Office apps can be found and downloaded from the Microsoft Store on any Windows 10 device. For more information on this, see Windows 7 end of support and Office.
Why am I getting notifications?
To bring attention to this important change, Microsoft is sending out reminder notifications through the end of the 2019. The company is deploying a handful of such alerts, so if you’ve received one, you can read more about their recommended actions before the support end date. Hopefully, this information will answer any questions you might still have during the transition period. However, if you’re not interested in any additional information, simply close out the notification window.
You can also learn more about end of support here.
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