Windows 7 support has ended
Since 14th January 2020 Microsoft has ceased supporting Windows 7.
Any machines still using Windows 7 are now unsupported. This means that Windows 7 machines will have no further updates and no new features. But most importantly, they will have no security updates. “It means you’ll be cut off from security updates, which puts you and your data at greater risk”, says Microsoft.
Does it matter?
Vyacheslav Zakorzhevsky, head of anti-malware research at Kaspersky Lab, a cybersecurity firm, says, “When someone is using an outdated version of the operating system, this increases their risk of being attacked through an exploit: a program, piece of code, or even some data designed to take advantage of a bug in an application. Whenever a new vulnerability is discovered, the operating-system vendor usually delivers security patches only to the supported versions.”
Currently, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 are the only versions of Operating System supported by Microsoft. These versions receive security and other updates on a regular basis. This gives you peace of mind about your computer security. It also allows you to take advantage of other improvements as they become available.
What should I do?
If you are not using one of these supported versions, now is the time to act.
Microsoft have released a simple checklist for SMBs detailing their advice about what to do.
Download Microsoft SMB checklist here.
Following the simple steps in the checklist should help you decide on the best action to take next.
What if I need more advice?
Think datamills. 
We at datamills are experienced at upgrading, to keep you working and secure.
We will be happy to take your old machine in and put a new, supported operating system on it.
Alternatively, we can help you choose a new machine or other option.
Whatever your requirements and budget, give us a call on 0114 287 0510 to discuss the best way forward for your business.