https://www.xperience-group.com/news-item/the-implications-of-the-windows-xp-end-of-life-policy/
Following the Windows XP end of life announcement from Microsoft, Xperience Group, Microsoft gold partners, urge small businesses to consider migration plans.
From April 2014, when the Windows XP operating system reaches end of life, there will be no new security updates, non-security hotfixes, free or paid assisted support options, or online technical content updates for Windows XP. Businesses that have not upgraded their operating system by the time XP reaches end of life could be exposed to security risks and prevented from capitalising on new and future technologies.
“With the date of the XP and Office 2003 end of life drawing closer, Xperience are advising businesses using XP or Office 2003 to seriously consider upgrading their systems. Many organisations fail to realise the security risks faced by remaining on the Windows XP operating system after April 2014.” comments, David Bullock, TotalCare Business Manager at Xperience Group. “Although windows XP systems will continue to function after April 2014, businesses that have not upgraded will be exposing themselves to Malware, Viruses and Trojans, which could be detrimental to operations.”
Microsoft pulling the plug on support may also have a negative effect on business applications and hardware. From 2012, many independent vendors (ISVs) removed support in new versions for Windows XP.
Businesses still using Windows XP should have begun plans to migrate already. Businesses without plans to migrate from Windows XP should begin application testing and immediately in order to reduce business risk.
If you are a user of Windows XP or Office 2003 consider the Xperience Group’s IT Audit to support your planning.