Windows 7 users who don't upgrade to Windows 10 will no longer be able to get Microsoft's security updates or technical support, leaving your computer at greater risk for viruses and malware.
Windows 10 Download Instructions for Those Still Running Windows 7 Despite End of Life
RIP Windows 7. Support for Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows Server 2008 ended on January 14, 2020. If you are still using Windows 7 or 8, your PC is vulnerable to security risks. What this means is that there is no more technical support or security updates for Windows 7. Simply put, Windows 7 is now unsafe to use.
Recently, the FBI issued a private industry notification warning that it had observed cybercriminals targeting outdated operating systems and recommending that companies update to the most recent versions in order to reduce risk.
According to ZDNet's latest report regarding this FBI private industry notification, "Continuing to use Windows 7 within an enterprise may provide cybercriminals access into computer systems. As time passes, Windows 7 becomes more vulnerable to exploitation due to lack of security updates and new vulnerabilities discovered," the FBI warning says. “With fewer users able to maintain a patched Windows 7 system after its end of life, cybercriminals will continue to view Windows 7 as a soft target," the FBI warns.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to switch to Windows 10. When Windows 10 was first released in July 2015, Microsoft offered a unique free upgrade offer for Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 users, that still works for many people.
Image courtesy of Microsoft/ZDNet
Roughly 200 million PCs worldwide will still be running older Windows versions, mostly Windows 7.
Will an upgrade to Windows 10 work?
How old is your PC you’re looking to upgrade? We don’t recommend upgrading a six year old computer from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Windows 10 uses more of your computer’s resources – i.e. RAM, hard drive and the processor all need to be taken into consideration. If the machine is old the upgrade will likely impact performance.
If the machine is still under manufacturer warranty, then performing an OS upgrade can be a great option. If the manufacture's warranty has expired, then it’s time to get a new computer. To get the best Windows 10 experience and take advantage of key unique features, you'll want to purchase a new Windows 10 PC with current hardware components.
Lastly, prior to upgrading to Windows 10, make sure any software or hardware you have installed on your computer is compatible with Windows 10.
Windows 10 computer specifications and systems requirements can be found on Microsoft’s website. You can also take steps to free up additional space on your hard drive on your own. For more information, see Free up space to install the latest Windows 10 update
If you’ve decided to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10, follow these simple steps.
Here's how to get Windows 10 for free, if you're currently running a licensed and activated copy of Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 Home or Pro:
- Go to the Download Windows 10 website.
- Under Create Windows 10 installation media, click Download tool now and Run.
- Choose Upgrade this PC now, assuming this is the only PC you're upgrading. (If you're upgrading a different machine, choose Create installation media for another PC, and save the installation files.)
- Follow the prompts.
- When the upgrade is complete, go to Settings Update & Security > Activation, and you should see a digital license for Windows 10.
If you’re looking for IT services in the Tri-Cities and Yakima, Washington or Bend, Oregon areas, or simply want to learn more, give us a call at 541.848.6072 in Oregon or 509-396-6640 in Washington.
