Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Microsoft To Stop Release Patches For Windows XP

Windows XP was one of the all time favorite operating systems of millions of users across the globe. It was the first operating system from Microsoft with numerous features and a simple user interface. For years, it remained on the top spot in the list of popular operating systems. Even Windows Vista that came with much hype could not make it to the first position and it was Windows 7 that was released after two years that took up this title.

However, Microsoft has decided that it is time to stop support for Windows XP. The software giant has made it clear that Windows support for the operating system will no longer receive windows updates or support after April 8, 2014. This date will mark the end of support for the operating system, which still remains one of the favorites of many users.

Windows XP was released 12 years ago on October 25, 2001. Since then, the operating system had ruled the market with its wide range of features. Microsoft also released three service packs for the operating system. The last service pack was released in 2008. Users were able to download and install various Windows updates for the operating system on a regular basis and this is going to end by 2014.

The decision by Microsoft is not a surprise as the software giant has already released four other operating systems since the release of Windows XP. These include Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1. Even now, studies show that 20 percent of the computers around the world still use Windows XP. It maintains the second spot next to Windows 7. This has forced Microsoft to end the Windows support for the operating system and with this, Microsoft hopes that more users would migrate to one of the latest operating systems.

With the end of support for Windows XP by 2014, Microsoft would stop releasing security updates and other Windows updates for the operating system. This means that the computers with Windows XP installed in them will be vulnerable to online attacks. This can pose great security issues, especially if your computer has sensitive or important files.

Therefore, it is a good strategy to migrate to any of the latest operating systems. You have many options to choose from. If you do not wish to upgrade to a Windows operating system, you can go for a Linux operating system or any of the operating systems from Apple.

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