Windows XP support is discontinued - what to do?
Microsoft will end support for Windows XP on March 8th, 2014. There will no longer be any important security updates, nor will professional help. Find out what you should do here.
What happens if I keep Windows XP?
If you don't want to part with patout from Windows XP, you can of course stay with the old operating system. However, an outdated operating system carries some risks:
- Viruses and malware: Microsoft offers from 8.3. no more security updates for Windows XP. As a result, your computer is no longer adequately protected against malicious software.
- No support: The telephone and online help for Windows XP will be completely discontinued.
- Software problems: Sooner or later software developers will require new operating systems. You will then no longer be able to use many programs.
What alternatives do I have?
If you don't want to stick to Windows, you can use the Linux or Mac OS operating systems. However, this usually means buying a new computer. Upgrading to Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 is a lot cheaper.
Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1?
With Windows 7 and Windows 8.1, Microsoft has launched stable, powerful and user-friendly operating systems. Windows 8, however, has brought some difficulties to users.
- Windows 7 is based on the desktop surface familiar from XP. A change should be easy here.
- Windows 8 and 8.1 have a new tile surface parallel to the desktop surface, which may take some getting used to at the beginning, but also offers many new possibilities.
- Use the Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant to find out whether your computer meets all the requirements for Windows 8 or 8.1.
Learn how to convert to Windows 8 here. You can install Windows 8.1 as an update if you have installed Windows 8. You can find out how to do this here. The instructions for converting to Windows 7 can be found here.