Microsoft Windows XP users will no longer receive software updates after April 8, 2014, which will leave their computers vulnerable to security risks. These include security updates that can help protect their PCs or computers from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software, which can steal their personal information and/or hijack their computers.
The following messages will be displayed on the computer screens of Windows XP users, warning them of the deadline:
- "Windows XP End of Support is on April 8th, 2014. Click Here to learn more"
- “On April 8, 2014, Windows XP support will end. Keep your PC protected”
Microsoft has provided support for Windows XP for the past 12 years. But, they said that it is now the time for them, along with our hardware and software partners, to invest their resources toward supporting more recent technologies so that they can continue to deliver great new experiences.
As a result, after April 8, 2014, technical assistance for Windows XP will no longer be available, including automatic updates that help protect your PC or computer.
Microsoft will also stop providing Microsoft Security Essentials for download on Windows XP on this date. (If you already have Microsoft Security Essentials installed, you will continue to receive antimalware signature updates for a limited time, but this does not mean that your PC will be secure because Microsoft will no longer be providing security updates to help protect your PC.)
If you continue to use Windows XP after support ends, your computer will still work but it might become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Also, as more software and hardware manufacturers continue to optimize for more recent versions of Windows, you can expect to encounter greater numbers of apps and devices that do not work with Windows XP.
It is recommended that you upgrade to Microsoft Windows 8.
If you want to upgrade from Microsoft WinXP or Microsoft Vista to Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows 8, please click here.