It’s Time for an Upgrade: From Windows 7 to 10 and Beyond
Did you know that you can still “upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 and claim a free digital license for the latest Windows 10 version, without being forced to jump through any hoops?” At least that’s the case according to Ed Bott at ZDNet. Cost and hoops aside, the upgrade is the most critical part. Whether you are working remotely from your own device or running a network of systems for an enterprise, up to date often means up to defend against the cyber threats lurking around the corner. It’s also important when it’s your only option.
The End of Windows 7 and 8.1
At the beginning of the year, Microsoft officially ended support for its Windows 7 and 8.1 operating systems. In other words, users can no longer access security updates for these systems. Therefore, if you were still using Windows 7 or 8.1 on a PC, you would have to switch to Windows 10 in order to receive enhanced protective measures and assistance.
But even Windows 10 has its expiration date. Windows 10 is set to remain available through around October 2025. According to Computer World, Windows 10 22H2 will be the final version of Windows 10. Already an option and poised to take its place is Windows 11. However, this transition is likely to take some time as it is estimated that around 70% of Windows users continue to rely on Windows 10.
The clock is ticking, though. Organizations will need to evaluate how and when it is best for them to adopt Windows 11. When doing so, it will be helpful to consider its hardware requirements as well as its reported heightened attention to security.
The Importance of Upgrades
So, we go from 7 to 11. Why keep up? Other than having to in order to keep systems properly functioning to meet today’s demands, upgrades are also designed with defense mechanisms in mind. That priority is more essential than it has ever been. And of all companies, Microsoft is aware.
In a “Patch Tuesday” edition released in May, Microsoft announced that it fixed 38 vulnerabilities, including zero-day vulnerabilities. One such flaw could have potentially provided hackers access to Windows’ highest privilege level, which would have allowed them to run tasks within systems. Another consisted of a security software dodging malware risk.
Fast forward to July, and Microsoft just put out a new list of 132 security vulnerabilities. Included in this roundup is a remote code execution concern connected to Russian cybercrime group, RomCom, and a flaw that could expose the Windows SmartScreen feature. To avoid falling into the void of such cybersecurity issues, Davey Winder at Forbes put it this way: “The message coming loud and clear from security experts concerning the security rollout for July is that updates need to be applied as soon as possible.”
Sources
“Yes, you can still get a free Windows 10 upgrade. Here's how” - Ed Bott, ZDNet
https://www.zdnet.com/article/heres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade/
“Microsoft Ends Security Updates, Technical Support for Windows 7 and 8.1” - Attila Tomaschek, CNet
https://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-ends-security-updates-technical-support-for-windows-7-and-8-1/
“With Windows 10 going away, time to get serious about Windows 11” - Susan Bradley, Computer World
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3694932/with-windows-10-going-away-time-to-get-serious-about-windows-11.html
“Update Your PC Right Now to Fix These Actively Exploited Security Vulnerabilities” - Jake Peterson, Lifehacker
https://lifehacker.com/update-your-pc-right-now-to-fix-these-actively-exploite-1850423910
“Windows Users Urged To Update As Microsoft Confirms New Zero-Day Exploits” - Davey Winder, Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/daveywinder/2023/07/13/windows-users-warned-to-update-now-as-microsoft-confirms-new-zero-day-exploits/?sh=342f26625d7c