Microsoft Kills Windows 7 extended security updates

Microsoft has published a reminder that it will terminate all extended security updates for Windows 7 Professional and Enterprise editions on January 10, 2023. All systems using these versions of Windows will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes, exposing users to potential risks. The Extended Security Update (ESU) program was the final lifeline for customers who still needed to run legacy Microsoft products beyond their end of Support.

Several products will reach their end of Support in 2023 - discontinuing updates (security or non-security), as well as free or paid assisted support options, or online technical content updates.

Product Retirements

The following products, governed by the Modern Policy, will retire in 2023.

Microsoft will also begin moving the following products from Mainstream to Extended Support in 2023 before ending Support for good. Extended Support includes no-cost security updates and paid non-security updates and Support. 

If you are still using one of the systems mentioned above, it’s time to upgrade. Not only will upgrading bring you many more features, but it will also provide you with tighter security. Using an old operating system puts your data at risk since it doesn’t have the latest security patches and updates to protect against malicious software or viruses. This leaves any information stored on your system vulnerable and could lead to a data breach or theft.

Lastly, older versions of Windows are less compatible with modern software and may not support some applications that require more advanced features. This means that some applications will not run properly on older systems (or not run at all). 

Note that Microsoft will end Support for Windows 10 in 2025. So, consider upgrading to Windows 11 if you are about to make the jump. If you have questions about upgrading your operating system, contact our experts today — we’re happy to help!