Windows XP Migration Service

Twelve and a half years after being introduced to the public, Windows XP will no longer be receiving support from Microsoft as of April 8, 2014. There will no longer be customer service, free updates or security patches available for XP. With many small-businesses still running Windows XP, there are going to be a wide range of problems when the software support for XP is no longer available. What business owners need to be aware of is that once support ends for this famous Microsoft operating system, it will very quickly be subject to attack by hackers. The lack of updates will mean that security patches are no longer being applied and backdoors and those with malicious intent will eventually find loopholes. The best way to protect your business and remain efficient in the 21st century is to update the operating system you’re using and migrate to a newer one like Windows 7 or 8.1. These new operating systems provide enhanced security, increased productivity, and improvement in management capabilities, which results in a lower total cost of ownership and noticeably increased efficiency. Migrating to a new operating system will also provide an immediate benefit to the mobile workforce by providing a wider variety of devices to choose from. It’s important to note that all the support for Office 2003 will end at the same time.

After April 8, 2014, it’s important that your business take the necessary steps to prevent or mediate any of the issues caused by the lack of Windows XP updates, patches, or support. Currently, the security patches provided by Microsoft fix any security vulnerabilities in the OS.  Without the security updates, any XP vulnerabilities will eventually be discovered by malware and user data has the potential to be stolen.  Upgrading or migrating to a newer OS like Windows 8 will not only keep your data safe but also your clients’ data safe, since it will be receiving regular security updates from Microsoft.

Whether you’re an enterprise customer or a small business, there are options available for you to migrate off Windows XP to a new operating system.

Enterprise customers or large corporations with over 500 employees receive special help from Microsoft and will be provided a migrating service by Microsoft or one of their certified partners.  On the other hand, small- to medium-sized businesses have to go through this process themselves or with the help of an IT company.  Boot Networks provides the help and services a small business would need to migrate their operating system.

Any small businesses that are still using old computers and Windows XP will have to begin using modern PCs with the latest Microsoft software if they want to experience increased productivity and better security measures. Windows 7 Professional or Windows 8.1 Professional are the operating systems that business can choose from.  Migrating is a difficult and intense process with a lot of room for error.  While it may be cheaper to attempt a migration from Windows XP to a newer operating system yourself, it’s highly recommended to use an IT company that offers the services you need. Boot Networks offers an operating system migration service, with expert help available and representatives standing by to deal with your concerns.  The services these companies provide are imperative to guaranteeing a smooth installation and preventing any future problems from arising.

If your company or small business has decided to keep using Windows XP, you should be aware of the potential risks you could run into. Security will be the biggest problem that XP users experience once support ends. Without important Windows XP updates, PCs become much more vulnerable to viruses, harmful spyware, and a range of malicious software. These programs steal your private data and can damage your business.  While there are anti-virus programs available, they will also be unable to offer protection once Microsoft support ends. They no longer have any incentives to keep updating their software for an outdated operating system. Another risk of not migrating to a new operating system is that businesses using Windows XP will no longer be able to satisfy compliance requirements. There are regulatory obligations that businesses are legally required to follow. These regulations guarantee a standard of quality in the industry and require businesses to keep up-to-date software and technology. Support for many other software programs running on Windows XP will also run out. Once program developers are no longer able to receive security updates they will no longer provide their services for business running on outdated software. Finally, PC manufacturers will also stop providing support for Windows XP on the hardware they sell. Any new hardware businesses want to use after support is over could experience driver problems and not be compatible.

While you will still be able to use Windows XP after April 8, 2014, you will not receive any support or updates from Microsoft; however, activations will still be required on all new XP installs. If you are migrating to a new operating system, you need to understand that it is a large and complicated process. Many businesses will simply continue to use Windows XP, but that will open them up to a variety of technical issues and security problems.

To replace your aging system, it’s important to use a company that can deliver specialized and high-quality IT services.  Boot Networks is a California corporation that strives to deliver the highest standard of service in the industry. Boot Networks provides advanced technology support solutions for any complications your small business might experience. If you’re looking for an easy and affordable Windows XP migration service, Boot Networks can satisfy all your requirements.

Need to find out what Operating System you are running?  Click Here for instructions.