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Here’s another new blog post and another new comment about how Microsoft is ruining running our lives. This time it’s the end of life (EOL) of our beloved Windows 7. This was actually supposed to have happened already, but due to many industries with applications that do not support anything above Windows 7, the EOL date was extended. However, as with everything, the end has come.

HOLD ON, DON’T PANIC

This does not mean it is not supported. This means it is not being sold any longer. We will not be able to get new systems that come with Windows 7 or buy a Windows 7 license. As of right now support for Windows 7 is slated active until 2020.

WHAT WE KNOW

According to our Dell rep (who we meet with frequently, so if you have a gripe let us know and we’ll pass on the message), effective October 31, 2017, we will no longer be able to purchase any workstations or laptops with Windows 7 and our only option will be Windows 10. This isn’t something Dell has decided to do to make our lives miserable, but is stemming from the new line of Intel Processors not being compatible with Windows 7.

While you may not care one bit if you have to move to Windows 10, there are many line of business applications that do not yet support Windows 10, and who knows when they may have that capability. If you utilize an application within your business that can only run on Windows 7 (ex. accountants using QuickBooks 2012), and if your equipment is more than 3 years old, you may want to consider being proactive and replacing this equipment. The reason for this is to ensure you are able to fully optimize your technology if an unexpected replacement needed to occur. Wouldn’t it be bad to have a computer die, get a shiny new one, but not be able to use it with your business application due to Windows 10, which is unsupported?

If you are unsure if your legacy business application can support Windows 10, just ask. As always, we are here to help educate you on technology changes so you can make the best decisions for your business. We are happy to answer any questions or further explain, so please reach out if we can be of any service.