This article is just a heads up for anyone out there who is currently using the Microsoft Windows Vista Operating System. Microsoft has officially discontinued support for Windows Vista as of April 11, 2017.

What does this mean?

As of April 11, 2017, Windows Vista customers are no longer receiving new security updates, non-security hotfixes or other online updates from Microsoft. Microsoft has provided support for Windows Vista for the past 10 years and they have decided to discontinue supporting this product to spend more time on new technologies.

Will my computer stop working?

Do not be alarmed, this does not mean that your computer will cease to function or that you will lose any data currently on your computer, it simply means you are past due for an update to your operating system. You may continue to use Windows Vista, but you do so at your own risk. As Microsoft says:

“your computer will still work but it will be more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Internet Explorer 9 is no longer supported, so if your Windows Vista PC is connected to the Internet and you use Internet Explorer 9 to surf the web, you might be exposing your PC to additional threats. Also, as more software and hardware manufacturers continue to optimize for more recent versions of Windows, you can expect to encounter more apps and devices that do not work with Windows Vista. ”

How do I know if I am running Vista?

Check out this article that shows you how to identify if you are running Windows Vista:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/22882

What should I do if I am running Windows Vista, or another older operating system like Windows XP or Windows 2000?

First look at the minimum specs needed to run Windows 10 found here. If you meet or exceed the requirements needed to run Windows 10, you only need to purchase a copy of Windows 10 and install it on your current machine. If you find that you do not meet the requirements for running Windows 10, a whole new machine may be the most practical choice. Any new machine will come with Windows 10 already loaded and you’ll be all set.

I do not understand any of this. Can you explain it to me or help me further?

If you are in any way unsure of what this means to you, concerned your PC may not be secure any longer, or debating whether or not it is time for a new machine altogether, feel free to email us anytime or call us at (262) 423-6267 for additional support!