On April 8, 2014, Microsoft finally ended support on Windows XP. That means security patches are no longer offered. There have been numerous advisories with a countdown warning about the expiration. Companies have been procuring new computers in the months leading up to the end of life for XP. Some companies who refuse to migrate after all the warnings are trying to bribe Microsoft into keeping support for them.
We agree with the majority that Windows XP has been a very good operating system. Originally available in 2001, the OS has been stable, easy to use, and fast. At the time, XP was Microsoft’s gem, and probably still is. It was so popular that when Microsoft moved towards Vista in 2007, it was instant bust. Controversial due to the hardware demands, Microsoft quickly finished Vista in what we now know as Windows 7. Since 7’s arrival in 2009, it’s grown on people and become a rock solid operating system. It’s stable, easy to use, and fast….sound familiar? Windows 7 repairs better than XP, and handles resources better. Windows 8, a streamlined attempt at an OS for all devices, has also been controversial. Microsoft quickly released the 8.1 upgrade, which has been a nice improvement. Rumors persist that Microsoft has plans towards a Windows 9 that is built for the home, and a product built for businesses. That sounds good, because Windows 8 hasn’t been too business-friendly for the basic end-user.
Since April 8, there have been numerous tech articles reporting the end of XP. In the comments section of those articles, there have comments from readers saying things like “this is the final straw” and “we’re done with Microsoft…we will now buy Apple.” Consumers can do what they want, but we actually feel Microsoft is in the right for once. XP is an operating system that’s been around for nearly 15 years. It’s time to move on. Microsoft is done paying their developers millions to keep patching a system in production that long. They’d rather move those developers to new projects. And just think, if XP was good to you, imagine what these developers can make now? Technology thrives when there is progress. It’s time to look ahead. And also, some of you folks have had years to upgrade. It’s not like you could have bought a PC with XP on it in the last three years anyway. Trust Windows 7 if you don’t like 8. Microsoft seems to hit a homerun every other operating system anyway.
The real scary part is that banks have been using XP for their ATMs, teller, and banker PCs. That should make everyone nervous about their information security. Hospitals are still using XP for the staff. These organizations buy their PCs and then image them with XP images. Next time you are at the bank or doctor’s office. Raise the issue with them and let them know they are putting their customers at risk. These organizations have had years to upgrade. It’s time they spend money to protect our information.
