One year since the death of Windows XP

By Anthony Cowie

The death of Windows XP can be seen as something very positive since  the default security level in the new Windows 8 platform is so much more advanced thanWindows XP that you can’t even compare them.

Despite its death on 8 April 2014, apparently as a much as 12% of PCs globally still run Windows XP. This means that individuals using Windows XP are missing support and updates, as well as having an inferior security level compared to the later operating systems. Running this old software puts them at potential risk. Microsoft has also clearly stated that: “An unsupported version of Windows will no longer receive software updates from Windows Update. These include security updates that can help protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software, which can steal your personal information.”

Security in business can no longer be taken lightly. Organized criminals, hacktivists and even governments are spying on companies and looking into their confidential data. Business security has to be taken seriously – any company can be a target of opportunity.

The reality of Windows XP was that the absence of patches exposed companies to risk. Companies should not only focus on security concerns but also compliance obligations.

Continuing to use Windows XP is considered to be not only a threat to its users but also to others. Recent tests have shown that as little as 10-15 minutes online with one XP machine can result in as many as 800 malware items being found a month later in a scan. These items can then unwittingly very easily be transferred to other computer users, potentially causing great harm.