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 [email protected] or call one of our team on +44 (0) 1364 654100.