There is just over a year to go until Windows 7 expires. Here's what you need to know...
Why is Windows 7 expiring?
Windows 7 will expire in early 2020, which means if your are still using it now you have just over a year to decide what to do when the software isn't supported.
At that time, Microsoft will implement its process for Windows 7 'end of life'. This means all support (including paid support), updates and security updates will be discontinued.
“Every Windows product has a lifecycle”, Microsoft says. “Knowing key dates in this lifecycle helps you make informed decisions about when to update, upgrades or make other changes to your software.”
When will Windows 7 expire?
The critical date for Windows 7 'end of life' is 14th January 2020. By this time, Windows 7 will have been around for more than 10 years; it was released on 22nd October 2002. At the time of launch, Microsoft committed to providing 10 years of support for the product.
Between now and January 2020, the operating system is in a phase called ‘extended support’. Microsoft will still offer paid support before the product is withdrawn entirely, but it won't provide the free support that comes with the licence.
Microsoft will also continue to provide security updates, but not any feature or design updates. Microsoft has publicly said it will support Windows 7 until January 2020, but they can block support for any machine at any time. In fact, they began blocking support for older devices using Pentium III in June this year, so users of Windows 7 should prepare ahead of the deadline.
Once Windows 7 is finally discontinued, Microsoft will focus investment on supporting newer technologies and in creating new ones.
What can I do to prepare?
To avoid a situation where you are still using Windows 7 but Microsoft doesn't support it, they strongly advising moving to Windows 10 before January 2020. Windows 10 is the most current of Microsoft's personal computer operating systems. It was launched in July 2015 and replaced Windows 8.1.
If you need to make the move to Windows 10, Core can help you upgrade with our Desktop as a Service. We can provide users with a full-featured, secure Windows 10 desktop environment which can be accessed from any device, in any location. Our Desktop as a Service is charged on a per user per month basis, which makes it cost-effective, too.
Why else should I move to Windows 10?
Here are a few more reasons to upgrade to Windows 10. You can find out how to make your transition a smooth one, here.
There are also a number of other Microsoft products that are nearing end of life in 2020, including Office 2010 and SharePoint 2010. A sure way of future-proofing your software is by upgrading to Microsoft's online platform, Office 365.
Office 365 is updated regularly by Microsoft, with new features being added all the time. It includes a whole suite of features including productivity tools like Word and PowerPoint, email, SharePoint and social tools like Teams and Yammer. You can find out more about the benefits of Office 365 here.
Microsoft end of life dates
Here are the key Microsoft end of life dates that you need to be aware of:
