XP Support is Down, but Not Out

The news that Microsoft no longer supports Windows XP, one of its most successful operating systems, was a great blow to many who loved the software. The greatest blow, however, will likely prove to be hackers, who will be able to break into the system now that Microsoft is not providing security patches.

Perhaps the most incredible part of this decision is that it actually happened. Considering how many XP machines are in the world, it's hard to believe that Microsoft would put a halt to its support. Unfortunately, those using the XP machines have to make a choice – somehow compensate for the security vulnerabilities to deal with hackers, or upgrade to a newer operating system.

If you are using Windows XP for your business, you don't want to take any risks when it comes to the safety of your records. Either way is going to be an expense, but SMART Services is here to help you figure out what the best choice for your company is, and the best way to go about implementing this change.

Why Not Fly South for the Winter?
Birds may be driven by instinct, but if you have the means to move to a warmer, nicer part of the world, why wouldn't you? The same can be said about people upgrading from Windows XP. However, the problem lies in that some companies don't have the means to upgrade. Others simply didn't take the transition seriously because, well, let's face it; XP was Microsoft's most popular operating system to date. Why pull the plug on its life support?

Some companies are unwilling to upgrade because they use applications that can only be run on XP, or their expensive equipment doesn't have available drivers for anything beyond Windows XP. This can hold some companies back, especially those who invested in hardware years ago and can't afford to buy new equipment.

SMART Services can help you move your data to new equipment. We've been working with companies all throughout the Detroit area, to get them up to speed with their operating systems (and we can do the same for you!).

What If I Don't Want to Upgrade?
For companies that can afford it, Microsoft is offering to produce security patches after April 8th. This custom support will be extremely costly at about $200 per system for the first year alone. Afterwards, it will double in price for each year you don't upgrade. It's almost like Microsoft is trying to get people to stop using Windows XP.

However, it should be noted that Microsoft has threatened to cease making patches once before in 2011, so what is stopping them from doing so again? It is likely your company will have more reliable protection by upgrading to a newer operating system. SMART Services can help you adjust to your new operating system with all of the remote technical support you may need. You don't want to play around with your company's security. SMART Services's trusted IT professionals can handle all of the details. Let us take care of your IT support while you worry about your own business.

There Are Other Options
There are some third-party companies that claim they can offer protection. A French company called Arkoon+Netasq is offering a service called ExtendedXP, which looks at the overall threats to your system and suggests ways to eliminate them. You can also try disabling Java, Flash, and other plugins, but these may cut down on your company's productivity significantly. Using an Internet browser such as Google Chrome that is continuously being updated could prove beneficial, but it should be noted that as long as you are connected to the Internet, your company will be at risk. Therefore, the best way to protect your XP machines would be to disconnect them from the Internet and network, but how productive can you really be without an Internet connection?

We know how attached you are to Windows XP, but honestly, the costs of continuing to use XP far outweigh the benefits in the long run. We highly recommend giving SMART Services a call at 586 258-0650 to discuss how you can upgrade your company's computers to a newer operating system.