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  • XP Support Is Gone: Here Are Your Options
Technology Articles > Software > System Utilities > XP Support Is Gone: Here Are Your Options

Today marks the day that Microsoft is no longer providing support for Windows XP. If you are still using XP, this news could mean that you’ll have to buy a new computer. What else does it mean? Here’s a breakdown.

No More Support

XP will no longer be updated with bug fixes or patches. In addition, Microsoft will no longer provide technical support for XP users. This means that it will become a lot easier for hackers to tap into systems that are still running on XP. Hackers will be targeting all of the computers out there running XP.

This doesn’t mean that your current anti-virus program won’t work or that you won’t be able to run the same security program that you’ve always run. It does mean that your system will be more vulnerable to attacks.

What can you do now that Microsoft has left you in the dust? You have a few options. The first is to upgrade to Windows 7 or Windows 8. The second is to buy a new computer. Some systems will have a tough time when it comes to compatibility and upgrading to Windows 7 or 8.

If you aren’t sure, Microsoft has set up a little test for you to check out on the main Microsoft website – just look for ‘Upgrade Assistant Tool.’ Run the test, and see if your current system can support Windows 7 or 8. If not, you may have to buy a new computer.

If you do decide to upgrade to Windows 8, though, be forewarned that this OS doesn’t come with a ton of positive reviews.

Why People Hate Windows 8

It’s really all about the ‘Metro’ interface. Switching to Windows 8 means leaving everything you knew about Windows behind and focusing on this new interface called Metro. Metro aims to make touch-usage simpler, but it also makes desktop usage useless. You can skip the new interface and revert back to the old Windows, but why bother?

Those that do upgrade to Windows 8 find it really tough to use, and it’s not hard to see why. If you’ve been an XP user for a long time, I strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 7 instead of Windows 8. If you have a lot of patience, you might be able to adapt to Windows 8. But, most people still using Windows XP are more likely than not the non-adaptable type.

What if you have to buy a new computer in order to upgrade to Windows 7? In that case, it might be a good idea to check out the reviews on this site. You can also stay tuned for some additional comparisons of budget desktops (if you’re still going that route), laptops, and tablets.

If you are considering a new computer, think about a tablet. Tablets have largely taken over the laptop and desktop market, and can often provide you with everything that your desktop once did – especially if you’re just using your new tablet to send emails and surf the web.

Are you stuck with XP? What will you do?