You’ve been using Windows 7 (Win7) forever, it seems. Over time it’s become like an old friend — one that irritates you from time to time but with whom you’ve had a great relationship overall. Now you don’t want to let that friend go. You’re concerned about hanging out with a younger kid who — since nearly Day One — has been making waves in the media for its misbehavior.
Trust us. We get it. Windows 10 (Win10) has had its share of unfortunate headlines. Nevertheless, the hard reality is that no operating system (OS) is 100% perfect, 100% of the time, by default. (That’s one of the reasons astute business owners hire folks like us — to help them keep their technology healthier and safer.)
So you say to yourself, “How do I know that keeping Windows 7 won’t be just as safe — or even safer — than moving to Windows 10?”
Why Windows 7 Must Go
Over the past year, we’ve shared a lot of information with our readers about the Win7 to Win10 migration path and about the built-in support — including critical security and code patches — that are ending for Win7. To us, that’s a pretty persuasive argument, but we realize it’s not very specific. So, let’s break it down.
System Compatibility: The recommended PC refresh cycle is 3-5 years for a reason. Older systems are less efficient, fast and stable, and they break more often than newer ones. Why? Two main culprits are software — applications and the drivers of peripheral hardware — Wi-Fi modems, printers, monitors and other equipment. If your computer is older than 3-5 years, our Best Laptop and Desktop Choices for Microsoft Windows 10 Migrations brochure might be helpful in determining replacement options.
Manufacturers racing to beat their competition now update their code very frequently, but it’s unlikely they will be releasing any more updates for Win7. The result will be ongoing crashes and serious, hard-to-diagnose issues.
Cloud Computing: The world is moving to the cloud, and it’s likely you already have a myriad of software or devices that interact with cloud-based services or systems on a regular basis, whether you know it or not. Win10 was built from the ground up for modern cloud computing. Win7 wasn’t, and that matters.
Streaming Video: Streaming video, from remote conferencing to company videos playing in your waiting area, is becoming a common productivity tool, whether companies have five employees or 50. Win7 wasn’t built for streaming video, especially the connectionless, HTTP-based protocols that since 2015 have been taking over the market. With no more patches, it will perform even more poorly or simply crash.
Security: The Final Word
If these reasons aren’t enough to persuade you, consider this one: security. You may have heard that Microsoft is offering users of Win7 “security fixes” for a yearly fee. The bad news is that it’s only for firms using Win7 Enterprise edition, which the vast majority of small to midsized businesses are not running.
But hasn’t Win10 had its share of security hiccups? Yes, because all operating systems do, but Microsoft has addressed them promptly. Finally, pundits can argue around the clock whether Win7 was inherently more secure than Windows 10 out of the box, but one thing is certain…
Any operating system that is no longer getting security patches is, by default, the least secure option.
It really is time to say goodbye to that old friend and watch them sail off into the sunset. If you are still not convinced, please give us a call. One of our specialists will be happy to discuss your current systems with you under absolutely no obligation. Armed with hard facts, you will be fully equipped to make the call that’s right for your firm.
