Windows 7 is still extremely popular with enterprise and individual users.
Sources indicate that nearly 50% of all PCs equipped with Windows and 43% of all PCs in existence are still using Windows 7.
Why is Windows 7, first released in 2009, still so popular? One reason is simply the tendency of people to stick with what they know. Many people never made the switch to Windows 8. Many others went back to Windows 7 after trying, and rejecting, Windows 8. In fact, the total share of PCs using Windows 8 or 8.1 never exceeded 6%.
Many users and businesses felt Windows 8 made too many changes to the look and feel of the system – complaining, in particular, about the removal of the familiar Start button. Others argued that Windows 8 and 8.1 had few clear benefits over the more familiar Windows 7.
Whatever Happened to…?
There was no Windows 9. Instead, Microsoft skipped ahead to Window 10 – now steadily gaining share and set to overtake Windows 7.
The End of Support
Mainstream support for Windows 7 ended in 2015. Extended support will end in January 2020*.
When extended support ends, you’re basically on your own. Windows 7 will continue to work, but will not be supported. Without updates, you’ll be vulnerable to virus and other intrusions.
Even now, third party vendors no longer must test products for compatibility with Windows 7 and Microsoft will not fix any problems that emerge. So, if you get the latest versions of QuickBooks or MS Office, you may find that they do not work with Windows 7. Similarly, your brand-new printer may not come with a compatible driver.
Make the Switch
To avoid problems, now is the best time to upgrade to Windows 10. Windows 10 combines the best qualities of Windows 7 and 8 — the desktop features of the former with some of the touch-friendly aspects of the latter. Thus, it’s easy to use with a keyboard and mouse, as well as a touchscreen.
We Can Help
If you have a lot of devices and software packages, all on different lifecycles, it can be a challenge to track and plan for end of support. That’s where Future Link IT can help. We can plan, manage and update your Windows products so that you can focus on growing your business.
*There are two phases of support for Microsoft products – Mainstream and Extended.