January 2020 Newsletter – Windows 7 Support Expires
The End of an Era: Windows 7 Support Expires
It’s been ten years since the first release of Microsoft’s Windows 7. Now as the decade comes to a close, so does support for this popular operating system. For anyone who has purchased a PC in the last 5 years, most likely, your system runs on Windows 10, but for those who opted for the older software, January 14th, 2020 will be the last day you can receive support.
What does that mean?
No need to fear! Just because support is ending, doesn’t mean your computer won’t work. Computers running on Windows 7 will still be functional; however, Microsoft has announced they will no longer provide the following services:
- Technical support
- Software Updates
- Security Updates
If I Can Still Use Windows 7, Why Should I Care?
Even though your operating system still runs, without continued software and security updates, your PC is vulnerable to viruses and malware. By upgrading to Windows 10, users ensure the best way to keep their information secure.
And while it is possible to install Windows 10 on your older device, Microsoft highly recommends new hardware in addition to the software upgrade. Just because the operating system will install correctly doesn’t mean it will run smoothly with old hardware.
One such software example is Office 365 ProPlus. After Jan. 14th, Office 365 ProPlus will no longer be supported on Windows 7. Because Office 365 is governed by the Modern Lifestyle Policy, it requires customers to stay current as per the servicing and system requirements for the product/service. But there is good news for anyone using Office 365 ProPlus! Even though Windows 7 will no longer be supported, security updates for ProPlus will continue for the next 3 years. This is to allow the transition from Windows 7 to a supported operating system. However, Office 365 ProPlus will not receive any feature updates as long as it’s running on Windows 7.
What Does That Mean for My Office and Equipment?
Very likely your organization’s I.T. department has already upgraded your computer to Windows 10 or it is scheduled. Now it is time to ask yourself if your peripheral devices will be affected. For example, any scanner that starts with Fi-5xxx or lower does not have drivers compatible with Windows 10. This means that as soon as your computer is upgraded to Windows 10, it is very unlikely your document scanner will be anything more than an expensive paper weight.
Similarly, Kodak Alaris, Canon and other scanner manufacturers have the same issue with certain models of their discontinued scanners. To learn which models, you can email us at [email protected]
What Can I Do to Prepare Myself?
If you have any scanner equipment and you’re concerned about how the new software updates will affect your workflow, give us a call! We’re more than happy to walk you through what the end of Windows 7 means for your organization and how we can help with your transition. At Graphic Imaging Services, we have relationships built on experience with key industry experts to help your organization find new and innovative business solutions.
Call our office to learn more. Graphic Imaging Services, Inc. 702 222-3590 or visit www.graphicimaging.net. To learn about all models, please email [email protected] .