Cybersecurity is a problem that affects both large and small companies. Several of their computers run outdated operating systems, such as MS Windows 8.1. Staff might use these devices occasionally. Or the company may run customised software that won’t operate on newer OS versions.
The concern is that when the OS becomes outdated, the system is open to cyberattacks. Whenever Microsoft or another developer retires an OS, it means it will no longer be supported. No more feature updates and security patches for newly found vulnerabilities.
The latest operating system to lose all support is Windows 8.1. Microsoft released the OS in 2013, and it was officially retired on January 10, 2023. Microsoft issued the following warning for companies:
“Continuing to use Windows 8.1 after January 10, 2023 may increase an organization’s exposure to security risks or impact its ability to meet compliance obligations.”
Here are some facts you should know about Windows 8.1 retirement.
It will still be possible to use the OS technically
When an operating system reaches its end of life, it doesn’t just stop working. Many companies continue using it without realizing the security risk. Technically, the OS will work as it did the day before retirement. But it's less safe due to support loss.
Your System Will No Longer Receive Security Patches
Software and OS vulnerabilities are sought out and exploited constantly. This is what hackers do for a living. The vulnerability cycle usually begins with hackers finding a software “loophole.” They then write code to exploit it that allows them system access.
Usually, software developers learn this after a system has been breached by hackers. They write code to fix that vulnerability. Developers then send the fix to users via an update that they install. As a result, the device is protected from one or more hacker exploits.
When an OS reaches its end of life, these fixes are no longer made. The developer has moved on to focus on its new products. So, the vulnerability remains. It leaves a device vulnerable to hacks for days, months, or years afterwards.
There are approximately 61% of security vulnerabilities in corporate networks that are over five years old.
There are several options for upgrading
You have two options for upgrading to Windows 8.1 if you have an older computer: Windows 10 or Windows 11. It is possible that your computer may not meet the requirements for one or both of these if it is running such an old operating system. In this case, you may need to buy a brand-new device altogether.
According to Microsoft, Windows 8.1 is not compatible with Windows 10 or 11. Upgrading has several advantages, including:
• Enhanced security features
• Improved processing speed
• Addition of modern features (such as facial recognition).
• Increased accessibility
• Updated productivity tools (such as snap layouts in Windows 11)
How will you be affected if you don't upgrade?
Compliance & Security Issues
Your data security is at risk if you stay on Windows 8.1. Any vulnerabilities won't be patched if you don't install security updates. This leaves your system highly vulnerable to breaches. One hacked system on a network can also cause breaches or malware infections to spread to new devices.
If you have to comply with a data privacy regulation, like HIPAA, you’ll also run into issues. Data privacy rules require reasonable efforts to protect data. Using a device with an outdated OS poses a threat to meeting compliance.
A reduction in productivity
The older the system, the slower it becomes. People who work with outdated software often complain that it hinders their productivity. Employees surveyed expressed frustration with outdated technology in 77% of cases. It is also possible that employees will quit if they are dealing with ineffective systems. The likelihood of them leaving and working somewhere else is 450% higher.
An outdated operating system can hold your staff back. They miss out on modern time-saving features. It is also possible for them to run into problems with bugs that will no longer be fixed.
Compatibility issues with newer tools
Software and hardware developers aren’t looking back. Once Microsoft retires an OS, they don't put any emphasis on its compatibility. In fact, some may not want their product to be compatible with it because of liability.
When you have issues using modern software and hardware, it hurts your business. You become less competitive and fall behind. Staying on an outmoded OS keeps you stuck in the past.
We can help you upgrade your Windows
We can help you smoothly migrate from an older Windows OS to the latest one. Our team of knowledgeable professionals can help you find the best value for your updated system. Give us a call today to schedule a chat about upgrades and security. Give us a call today.JTNDZGl2JTIwaWQlM0QlMjJzbGlkZUJ1dHRvbiUyMiUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIyc2lkZS1idXR0b24lMjIlM0VHZXQlMjBJbiUyMFRvdWNoJTNDJTJGZGl2JTNF
