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Microsoft XP is Saying Goodnight – Are You Ready?

According to NetMarketShare, 29% of computers across the globe are still running on Microsoft Windows XP. Forrester Research estimates that of North American and European corporate computers the number is 20%. Are you one of them? If so, April is not only personal tax return time, it’s also time to consider your computing options. On April 8, 2014 Microsoft’s longest living operating system Windows XP, Small Business Server 2003 and the popular Office 2003 will reach their end of life. Now that doesn’t mean your computer will just stop working, but there are some serious consequences that you must consider if you don’t make a change before then.

Not only will Microsoft no longer offer technical support but more importantly, after April 8 Microsoft will no longer be issuing security patches for Windows XP systems, leaving you highly vulnerable to security and compliance risks. Additionally, the line of business software that you run may no longer be supported if it is operating on Windows XP.

So what now? Obviously, the easiest answer is that it is time to upgrade. Depending on how old your equipment is you may be able to upgrade your current system to Windows 7 (which will be supported until 2020) or the newer Windows 8, although you will probably have to purchase an entirely new computer. Upgrading your technology has upsides – you’ll have enhanced security and compliance capabilities, your overall IT cost will be lower and you and your employees will be more productive. If you decide to stay will your current system, at the very least make sure your IT service provider will be able to help you should you have a problem, because most won’t – including the big box stores like Best Buy.

Along with your phone, your computer is probably your most important tool that you own to run your business. Please don’t ignore this deadline, conducting your business safely and effectively is at stake.

Mythos Technology is an IT consulting and management firm. For more information, please visit www.mythostech.com  or call (951) 813-2672.

Written by Stefani Laszko

Mythos Technology is an IT consulting and management firm. For more information, please visit www.mythostech.com or call (951) 813-2672.

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