On Tuesday 14th January 2020, Windows 7 officially reached the end of its supported life and this has left many businesses which still use the operating system unsure of what this means for them. In simple terms, it means that you need to update to Windows 10 immediately in order to keep your PCs secure and running smoothly but read on to find out more about the update and exactly why it’s so important.
Why has Microsoft discontinued support for Windows 7?
Windows 7 has, for some time, been subject to a “cat-and-mouse” game with hackers looking to exploit vulnerability and software bugs within the operating system. Put simply, Microsoft has cut its support of Windows 7 in an effort to force users to finally adopt Windows 10 and put an end to this ongoing battle once and for all.
Why is it so important that I move to Windows 10?
Microsoft has already made it clear that, without continued software and security updates, machines and organisations running Windows 7 will be susceptible to cyberattacks – especially to viruses and malware.
When it comes to cybersecurity, it is absolutely crucial to stay one step ahead, because hackers and cybercriminals are constantly evolving their methods and finding new ways to attack your business. (Want to know more? Read our blog on the cybercrime trends we can expect to see in 2020 here.)
A real-life example…
If you’re still questioning the importance of keeping your software up to date, let’s take a look at the recent events over at Travelex…
On New Year’s Eve, currency exchange company Travelex discovered that it had been subjected to cyberattack which had infected its systems with ransomware. A criminal gang by the name of Sodinokibi claims that it has downloaded around 5GB of sensitive customer data, including dates of birth, National Insurance numbers and credit card information. The hackers were threatening to release the sensitive information into the public domain if the ransom of $6 million was not paid. They also threatened to not return the data to Travelex if the ransom was not paid.
The attack on Travelex has left many businesses wondering what they can do to prevent themselves becoming victim to a similar attack. Sodinokibi, like many cybercriminals, is known to target published vulnerabilities and so one of the most important things your organisation can do to protect itself is make sure that its software and extensions are up to date. Businesses running the now unsupported Windows 7 would make for a prime candidate for an attack such as this.
What is Microsoft doing to help?
In the spirit of increased cybersecurity, Microsoft has just announced the introduction of a new Windows 10 security update. On being asked about this security update, Microsoft has stated that “providing encrypted DNS support without breaking existing Windows device admin configuration won't be easy. However, we believe we have to treat privacy as a human right—we have to have end-to-end cybersecurity built into technology."
In practice, this means that Microsoft is stopping website requests being sent across the internet in plain text (also known as the unencrypted DNS system). This lessens the risk of users being intercepted by a cyberattack. The plain text system is easy to use but this means that interception and manipulation of website traffic is also easier for a hacker. Microsoft’s plan is to encrypt all website traffic using DNS over HTTPS (DoH).
Microsoft’s new encrypting system will ensure that user data is contained to only a few browsers and apps. Part of the new encrypting system means that local internet service providers will no longer be able to read website addresses that users send. This could pose problems to local internet service providers as, currently, they are able to block content which might be seen as dangerous. This will not be impossible under Windows 10, but it will be more difficult to implement.
Microsoft may also have to think about its cybersecurity intelligence responsibilities, as introducing Windows 10 in this way means that this intelligence may be lost to local internet service providers. Microsoft has recognised this and has said that they will allow users and admins to decide which DNS server to use by picking the network they join. It is not yet known if users will realise this, or simply leave it on the default setting.
Whilst increased security is the primary focus of the recent Windows 10 update, there are a number of other benefits to updating to the latest version. One of these is the ability to sync a Windows 10 PC to the cloud and there are a number of other perks, including speed, compatibility and better software integration.
How can EPX help?
At EPX Technical Services, it is our job as an IT Managed Service Provider to make our clients aware of industry updates such as this well in advance and to make sure that they are always protected. Our Account Managers have been actively addressing the end of Windows 7 and the latest Windows 10 update with clients in all quarterly business reviews in order to prepare them for the upgrade, which is essential in keeping their IT running smoothly.
Find out more about EPX Technical Services
EPX Technical Services has already begun updating its customers’ IT equipment to Windows 10 and has ample experience in managing and assisting in running a smooth process through this refresh. Our experienced team of technicians can answer any questions you may have on the new Windows 10 update and help you decide which options and networks are best for you. For any questions or further information, please contact EPX Technical Services on 01785 878 311, or email info@epx.co.uk.
EPX Technical Services is a Managed IT Service Provider (MSP) helping businesses with their IT systems and infrastructure. We will work as an extension of your team to resolve technical problems and ensure the appropriate IT infrastructure is always in place for your business. Find out more here.
