For those still holding tight to Windows 7, you’ve probably gotten the word by now that the 2009 release is about to go dark. Windows 7 is set to reach end-of-life on January 14th, 2020, leaving millions of individuals and businesses (30 percent of all Windows users) wondering how to move forward.

Microsoft first announced the end of mainstream support in January 2015 but offered extended service up until the official end-of-life date. This meant that businesses could continue using Windows 7 with minimal risk for a few more years. Today, however, companies that fail to migrate in time will be saddled with high fees for further support from Microsoft.

Our team has started to receive an uptick in questions about this major change as the end-of-life date draws near. And while making the switch may seem daunting, there’s no need to panic. There are a variety of solutions available for home and business users that need to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10.

How Will the End of Windows 7 Support Affect Your Business?

After over a decade of service, Microsoft is discontinuing its support for Windows 7 to focus on developing newer technologies. This means that your company will no longer receive security patches for Windows 7 after January 14th, 2020. Until that date, Microsoft will be finishing out its complimentary “extended support” phase for current Windows 7 users. Therefore, you may still receive security updates and paid support for the time being, but Microsoft will no longer offer feature and design updates in any capacity.

If you still run Windows 7, Microsoft recommends upgrading all business computers to Windows 10 before the January 2020 service cessation date to avoid situations where support is no longer available. Operating without official Microsoft support leaves your network open to a variety of security risks, such as malware, viruses, data breaches, and more. And if you run a business, this could put your customers at risk as well.

Fortunately, by upgrading to Windows 10, you can receive active support and protect your business against digital threats. And with NerdsToGo’s business IT solutions, making the switch is simple!

How Will the Windows 7 End-of-Life Affect Your Web Browser?

The end of support for Windows 7 also means the discontinuation of Internet Explorer (IE). Because IE was a component of earlier Windows versions and has followed the same lifecycle through Windows 7, Microsoft Edge is now the recommended web browser for Windows 10.

What to Keep in Mind When Updating Your Operating System

Many IT teams are busy trying to keep up with daily compliance requirements and on-site computing needs. Therefore, taking on another project like updating operating systems may tax their departmental resources. However, keeping a few of the following considerations in mind can help everyone prepare for the switch:

Important Files – When upgrading your business computers, one of the first things you will be asked is whether or not you want to keep all of your files. While you most likely will, it’s still necessary to complete a full-system backup prior to updating.
Windows 10 License – Before you can make the switch, you’ll need to purchase a Windows 10 license. However, it may still be possible to find a free Windows 10 upgrade.
Available Time – The upgrade process may be time-consuming – especially if you’re working with older computers. Plan to spend about one hour updating each device.
Storage Space – Storage capacities and needs have changed a great deal over the past decade. Therefore, devices with a 32GB hard drive (or devices that have reached maximum capacity) may need additional space to complete the Windows 10 upgrade.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by any aspect of the upgrade process, reach out to NerdsToGo. Our Nerds can help you and your business manage this important update. The best part? We’ll travel directly to your business, so there’s no need to lug your devices to an alternate location.

Does Your Business Need Help Managing the End-of-Life for Windows 7 and Internet Explorer?

It’s never a pleasant experience to switch operating systems. You likely worry about the time and money it takes to upgrade your devices. Luckily, NerdsToGo is here to help! Our Nerds will visit your location, assess your current network and devices, and assist you throughout the entire upgrade process. With our talented team in your corner, you can rest assured that making the switch to Windows 10 will be as fast and painless as possible.

For more information about how to upgrade business computers to Windows 10 or to schedule computer repair in Hampton and Portsmouth, NH, York, ME, Newburyport, MA, and nearby, contact us today!