Microsoft will implement one of its biggest changes ever this week and it could put millions at a heightened risk of computer bugs, viruses and devastating cyber attacks. From Tuesday, all support for the ageing Windows 7 operating system will be withdrawn meaning no updates or security patches will be pushed out to those still using it.
In a statement on its support website, Microsoft said: “If your PC is running Windows 7, it will no longer receive security updates. Therefore, it’s important that you upgrade to a modern operating system such as Windows 10, which can provide the latest security updates to help keep you and your data safer.
“If you continue to use Windows 7 after support has ended, your PC will still work, but it will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Your PC will continue to start and run, but you will no longer receive software updates, including security updates, from Microsoft.”
Although news of this end of support has been around for some time it seems many haven’t yet taken Microsoft’s advice.
The most recent stats suggest around 26 percent of all desktop and laptop PCs are still using Windows 7 which millions are putting themselves at serious risk of attack.
Time is now clearly running out with just a few days left before Microsoft brings its support ban into force.
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So what should you do if you are still using Windows 7?
The US technology firm has released plenty of advice for its users with it stating anyone with a Windows 7-powered machine should either upgrade or replace it.
Although many users have contacted Express.co.uk to say the Windows 10 update is still free, Microsoft’s official statement says its no-cost upgrade plan ran out a few years ago and users must now pay the full price if they want this software.
“The Windows 10 free upgrade offer ended on July 29, 2016. To get Windows 10 you will need to either purchase a new device or, if you have a compatible PC, purchase a full version of the software to upgrade your existing device,” Microsoft confirmed.
The Redmond firm also says many older PCs may struggle once Windows 10 is installed and that some users may be better buying an all-new machine.
“For most Windows 7 users, moving to a new device with Windows 10 will be the recommended path forward. Today’s PCs are faster, lightweight yet powerful, and more secure, with an average price that’s considerably less than that of the average PC eight years ago,” said in its advice.
If you are still using Windows 7 then the advice is clear, you must make the switch to Windows 10 to keep your device free from security issues and viruses.