Are you prepared for Windows 7 End-of-Life?
Blog|by Leanne Bevan|1 November 2019

A while ago, Microsoft announced Windows 7 End-of-Life (EOL). “From 14 January 2020, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for PCs running Windows 7″.
But what does that mean for users and developers?
What does end of support mean for Windows 7 users?
After the support has ended, Windows 7 will still be active, however, you will be vulnerable to security risks and viruses as Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, security or software updates for PCs running Windows 7.
Therefore, it is advised that you upgrade to Windows 10. Features and benefits include advanced security, compatibility tools, deployment methods, and productivity.
Windows 10 is part of a wider offering from Microsoft – Microsoft 365. This also includes Office 365 and Enterprise Mobility Security.
Windows 7 Embedded products have slightly different EOL dates. See the product life cycle for more details.
It must be noted that Office 365 is governed by the Modern Life Cycle Policy whereby customers have to stay current, abiding by the servicing and system requirement for the product/service. And this includes Office 365 Pro Plus use on a currently supported Windows operating system.
Microsoft is allowing Office 365 Pro Plus customers more time, with security updates until January 2023. Bearing in mind that running Pro Plus on older, unsupported systems may result in performance and reliability issues, it’s recommended that devices are moved to Windows 10.
What does it mean for developers?
Developers need to update their applications to support Windows 10. Otherwise, they too won’t get the support and security, and they need to ensure they are providing a good, modern experience for the customer using the application. Without any issues.
Software vendors are helping developers with updating their legacy applications. For example, Embarcadero has hosted a number of webinars on Windows 10 development to help their developers with the transition. Sessions include:
- Working with Windows 10’s Windows Run Time
- Targeting Windows 10’s Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) with Delphi for Linux
- Move your Windows apps forward with Microsoft and Embarcadero
- FireDAC for Windows 10 database access
Watch the Embarcadero webinar recordings here. This will also be discussed at our upcoming Embarcadero UK Roadshow in Manchester and London in November 2019.
How to upgrade?
For help with deployment or upgrading, come to Grey Matter.
If you’re in search of a free upgrade, get Microsoft 365 Business as it offers a free upgrade for users with Windows 7, 8 or 8.1. All Windows Pro licensed devices can be upgraded at no additional cost.
Grey Matter is proud to be a Microsoft Gold Partner. We can provide you with Microsoft licensing and technical support for Windows 10, Microsoft 365 and other Microsoft products/services to ensure your applications remain compliant and secure.
We’re also an Embarcadero Master Reseller. If you’re ever in need of any licences, head to our webshop.
For more information, please email info@greymatter.com or call one of our team on +44 (0) 1364 654100.
Image by tookapic from Pixabay
Contact Grey Matter
If you have any questions or want some extra information, complete the form below and one of the team will be in touch ASAP. If you have a specific use case, please let us know and we'll help you find the right solution faster.
By submitting this form you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Website Terms of Use.
Leanne Bevan
Related News
Seamless Data Protection: The Perfect Marriage of Veeam and Wasabi
In today’s data-driven world, businesses face the critical challenge of ensuring the safety and accessibility of their ever-expanding volumes of data. As organizations increasingly turn to cloud solutions for data storage and backup, the combination of Veeam and Wasabi emerges...
Safeguarding Success: The Case for Acronis and the Advantages of Purchasing Through Grey Matter
In the fast-paced and interconnected world of business, data has become the lifeblood of organisations. The ability to securely store, manage, and recover data is crucial for business continuity and success. Acronis, a global leader in cyber protection, offers a...
Why use RAD Studio Architect Edition?
Elevate your development capabilities with RAD Studio 12 Architect, the most advanced RAD Studio edition with the broadest feature set. RAD Studio 12 Architect can enable enterprise-level data services and integrations with Embarcadero’s homegrown tools and services, like Aqua Data...
Intel product transition information
Intel upgrade options Intel® Parallel Studio XE users, please consider upgrading to Intel® oneAPI Base & HPC Toolkit to take advantage of the latest features including functional and security updates. Intel® System Studio and Intel® oneAPI Base & IOT Toolkit...