If Your Computer Is Running Windows XP, You Need to Upgrade Your OS by April 8, 2014

After April 8, 2014, there will be no new security updates or technical updates for Microsoft's venerable Windows XP operating system.

If you've been running this old reliable operating system for the last decade (like we have, on at least one computer), it's time to think about migrating to System 7 or 8.1, or some other operating system like Linux, if your hardware will work with it. (Windows Vista will be supported for a couple more years as well, but this OS is generally derided. Windows 7 is recommended if you don't have a touch screen.)

If you keep running XP, Microsoft says your computer will become vulnerable to security risks, and eventually some software may stop working.

Unfortunately, when you migrate to a new operating system, some of your old applications may not be compatible.

Alas, older computers may not support the newer, memory-hogging operating systems.

This means you may have to buy a new computer, or see if your old one can be upgraded. (There is software that helps you do that.  Here's the story of the upgrade of a 2005 laptop.)

If you are a big organization and have to migrate a lot of computers, you have to get started right away because it's a glitchy process.  Here's some advice for you.


If you don't know your operating system, right click on "My Computer" or "Computer," then click on "Properties."

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