BizTech: The XPocolypse is coming

Posted by Bernie Orglmeister on April 2, 2014

"XPocalypse” is almost here. Microsoft Corp. is ending support for the well liked — make that “most loved” — Windows XP operating system and Office 2003 on April 8 when Microsoft releases its final security updates for XP. What does that mean for you as a consumer or as a business?

The basic answer is that there will be no more security fixes, software updates or technical support. Microsoft will, however, still provide some anti-malware support for MS Security Essentials for another year. This means we will most likely see hackers working overtime to find security breaches with XP that can be exploited for financial gain. Windows XP is going strong, powering 27.69 percent of all worldwide PC usage during the month of March, according to stats from Netmarketshare.com, of which 15 percent consist of businesses.

For home users running XP, you will more than likely experience an uptick in hacks, viruses, and other vulnerabilities to your system and data. As a precaution, be sure to back up and protect your data. Carbonite is an example of a backup service. The cost is typically $59.99 per computer per year. Install an active antivirus program. Microsoft’s Security Essential works relatively well and is free, but there are other programs that require a fee.

Businesses who are still running XP will experience the same issues as consumers. But, if their systems have issues due to XP, they could be subject to additional headaches. For example:

Compliance with oversight of 3rd party regulatory parties such as HIPAA, SOX, etc. may be an issue.

But why are people so resistant to upgrading from XP? For some, it’s a budgetary issue – but can you afford not to upgrade?

For others, many do not want to turn to Windows 8, mainly because of the changes in the desktop with the tiles. And many believe that Windows 7 is no longer available. However, companies who are partners with OEMs like Dell or HP are still able to purchase Windows 7 business grade. Windows 8 and 8.1 computers do mean a steep change in how the desktop looks and feels, and are mostly built for touch screens. Business software and work-processes are not yet mature enough to incorporate those changes.

When Microsoft stops supporting Windows XP, it will also stop supporting Office 2003 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook) which is “pre-ribbon.” If you’re still using Office 2003, it too can invite viruses, malware, and other issues into your environment. Alternatives to Office 2003 include Office 2013 (Home & Student version is $139.99 one-time fee for 1 PC) or Office 365, Microsoft’s cloud solution ($99.99/year for 5 PCs or Macs plus up to 5 tablets). http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/buy/compare-microsoft-office-products-FX102898564.aspx

If you’re still running XP, it’s like driving a car knowing there are no replacement parts. It may run for a long time but, if a part breaks, you’re stuck. Businesses may be out for days or weeks, depending on their contingency plans.

XP was one of the best operating systems released by Microsoft – it had the security features, the compatibility, the user friendliness, and the business domain integration. But the world evolves and new requirements and more sophisticated vulnerabilities demand that we upgrade. Windows 7 is very user friendly, and Windows 8 is.... well, let's hope for an awesome Windows 9, expected late this year.

About Bernie Orglmeister

Bernie Orglmeister is President & Senior Project Engineer at SkyViewTek An Information Technology (I.T.) consulting firm, SkyViewTek is dedicated to providing professional services or strategic solutions for businesses and organizations, from one to 100 employees, since 2007. You can trust us to deliver the level of managed services your business needs, ensuring a stable and secure I.T. environment. Our proactive services model will eliminate business disruptions and give you peace of mind knowing that your networks are secure and operational. As a result, you get to focus on your core business while we handle the technology challenges and opportunities. Contact us at 610.590.5006 or info@skyviewtek.com.