(January 17, 2014) — Microsoft announced yesterday that it will continue to provide anti-malware for Windows XP through July 14, 2015. However, it’s still important to note that after April 8, 2014:

• Microsoft will technically stop supporting the Windows XP operating system.

• They won’t provide automatic updates, service packs, or any type of official Microsoft technical support for XP.

In April 2014, Microsoft will stop publishing Windows XP patches.  They’ve named this date,  “Zero Day Forever.” Zero-day refers to vulnerabilities hackers use to attack your operating system.

Those using Microsoft’s Security Essentials will still receive some anti-malware information. According to Microsoft:

“For enterprise customers, this applies to System Center Endpoint Protection, Forefront Client Security, Forefront Endpoint Protection and Windows Intune running on Windows XP. For consumers, this applies to Microsoft Security Essentials.”

But then Microsoft went on to say:

“Our research shows that the effectiveness of anti-malware solutions on out-of-support operating systems is limited.” 

Microsoft still advises businesses and consumers to upgrade from Windows XP before April 8, 2014.  But, if you decide to continue running Windows XP, you should apply regular security updates to the software and run up-to-date anti-virus software to help to prevent infections.

What does this mean for your business using Windows XP?  For answers contact CAT-TEC at (416) 840-6560 or by email at: {email}   We can help to ensure your business stays protected from malware and other threats.