With the end of security patches and updates for Windows XP its time to consider upgrading because Hackers are constantly coming up with new methods of compromising users’ systems, and a lack of security updates from Microsoft will only make it easier to do so. There may be independent XP from the security community, but tech-savvy users generally migrated away from Windows XP (at least as their primary system) a long time ago.
The easiest way to avoid security vulnerabilities after XP’s updates slip quietly into the night will be to upgrade to a newer version of Windows. Unfortunately, the system requirements on newer versions of Windows are considerably higher than those for XP. Vista and Windows 8 in particular are notorious resource hogs.
Even if you choose not to update, there are still a number of ways to protect yourself from security vulnerabilities. Be sure to stay current with Windows Updates until April 2014, and run regular anti-virus and malware scans after that. Stay away from suspicious websites and email attachments. Even on older systems, a judicious application of common sense will prevent the vast majority of system exploits.
For business users and others with lots of sensitive data, general caution and hoping for the best is probably not the best strategy. It may be time to invest in a new OS. If your desktop can’t run it, then it’s time to save up for a new computer.
For a system and software review, contact the CCS Retail Systems Support Depart Department at 800.672.4806 or email us.
-Bryan