Where Do I Go From Here?
Answers for the Business Still Using Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2
Attention: You Aren’t Safe
Listen up: if you are still using Windows 7--or much worse yet, Windows Server 2008 R2-- and these machines are connected to a network that is connected to the Internet, that network is in jeopardy. Microsoft has retired support for both operating systems and will no longer provide crucial security updates and bug fixes making them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
What Moves Should You Make?
You need to do what you can to upgrade away from Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2.
What If You Can’t Upgrade?
If your company depends on legacy titles that are only compatible with these systems, there are things you can do to protect your network. They include:
- Make sure firewall and antivirus are up to date - There are still risks when you keep systems running these OSs connected to your network, but by upgrading firewall and antivirus you’ll have a better chance at keeping unwanted entities off of these systems.
- Update other software - Along with security solutions, you’ll want to make sure other pieces of software you run on the platform are updated. For example, Google Chrome has stated it will support Chrome on Windows 7 until July 2021.
- Take resources offline - If your Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2 systems are taken offline, they are effectively quarantined away from the rest of your computing resources.
What Are Your Options Going Forward?
You will need to upgrade. For Windows 7, you can upgrade to Windows 10 or you can look to the cloud. There are options offered, such as the Windows 365 bundle, that delivers Windows 10 Pro, customizable security, and Microsoft Office 365 for a monthly fee per user. Regardless of what you choose, you need to get crucial business computing systems off of Windows 7.
For Windows Server 2008 R2, you’ll need to upgrade to a supported version of Windows Server. Knowing that this can come with massive upfront costs, Microsoft also provides migration solutions though their Azure cloud services.
If you are still using unsupported Microsoft operating systems, you need to start planning your upgrade today! Call the IT experts at Virtual Business Solutions to get started moving your business’ critical computing resources away from vulnerabilities by giving us a call at (504) 840-9800.