So, has Windows XP really had its moments in the spotlight – its last hoorah? The technology marketplace is crying foul – or wolf, among other things – and ordering customers to UPGRADE IMMEDIATELY! But you must keep in mind who earns what in this industry. After all, technology is about sales, sales, sales.
The twisted truth is that every ATM in the USA runs Windows XP…the same as every cash register as well, if it is locked and keyed off the internet. But, Microsoft being the corporate entity it is, Windows XP is generally safe. And it is NOT ending user support for major companies. Why? Because that’s where Microsoft’s clientele really lies.
Keep in mind, in not-so-technical terms, that a successful company has its retainer clients, long-standing partners and financiers. Beyond that, a company tries to win popular support by becoming a mainstream hot potato. Microsoft as a corporate company can afford to alienate its popular user-base, as long as the big clients pay. Look at IBMI!
It’s important to state this so you understand Microsoft does not care about its end-user. Will you be fine with Windows XP if you refuse to upgrade to Vista/7/8? As an IT owner that operates an IT consulting company? Technically, the answer is yes, provided you do not go to the seedy, dark corners of the Internet and download things you do not understand.
As for corporate clientele, you need only look at CNN’s article on the issue of 200,000 ATMS machines out of 210,000 operating on Windows XP. Also remember all the banks in the United Kingdom are buying Microsoft’s end of life support.
If you ask a tech person how to be cautious on the sale and avoid upgrading, I personally recommend Windows 7. I am not blown away by Windows 8. Or the ever-approaching Windows 9 coming in 2015-2016. I have built one desktop with Windows XP…it all depends on how safe you like to play it. The best thing to do is switch from Internet Explorer as a default browser. The alternatives are Google Chrome, Firefox and Opera. These browsers have longer life support than XP. They are also far more secure than Internet Explorer.
The life support for Windows 7 is ending in 2020. So, if you’re operating Windows 7, you have six more years. In the end, the user should be both cautious and skeptical. Media hype is just that – hype! It’s always about connections with sales.
