4 Things To Do When Microsoft Ends Support for Windows 7 / Server 2008
Microsoft is ending support for Windows 7 and Windows Server® 2008 on January 14, 2020.
After this, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, patches, fixes or support for devices running these operating systems.
If you continue to use one of these operating systems, newly released viruses or malware, capable of causing major issues in the operating system, will be able to exploit your system vulnerabilities and you will have no recourse for support. Your systems will be virtually defenseless against any and all new threats being released every day.
These are the 4 things you need to do to prepare.
1. Understand The Stakes
What does this mean for your business?
- Increased exposure to major vulnerabilities and cybersecurity attacks on systems, databases, and applications.
- Discontinued support for many commercial software applications and tools.
- Lack of compliance with government regulations (HIPAA, PCI, GLBA, etc.) If you have a breach as a result of continuing to use the devices running these operating systems, you could be subject to fines, civil suits and potential loss of business.
2. Take An Inventory
For computers, gather details into a spreadsheet for all workstations. Leverage this template to help you get started. If you need help, there are third parties, like The Solutions Team, who can help.
Servers are more complicated. If you have them, we recommend working with a third party to help gather all the specifications for your server(s).
3. Determine Upgrade vs. Replacement
The least expensive option is upgrading the software, but that may not be the best decision. Just like old smartphones get slower with every upgrade, new software can cause older PC’s and servers to slow down enough that they hinder workflow within your business.
If your devices are no longer under warranty, then they are older. Replacing them may not cost much more than upgrading the software and could give you much better performance now and for several years.
4. Evaluate Replacement Strategies
Should you purchase new computers, or utilize a program such as The Solutions Team’s IT+PC program to preserve cashflow? Should you buy a new server, or move to the cloud? Is this going to involve changing practice software platforms altogether?
These are the kind of questions that get ignored until the last minute. And that’s a huge problem.
Begin formulating your strategy now and plan to execute this strategy in the third or early fourth quarter of 2019 to avoid a last minute rush and associated errors.
Blog provided by Azalea Health Partner, The Solutions Team. To learn more about The Solutions Team visit
www.MySolutionsTeam.com/Healthcare/
To learn more about The Solutions Team’s partnership with Azalea Health:
https://mysolutionsteam.com/an-aspirin-for-your-ehr-headaches/
