END OF WINDOWS XP WITH SERVICE PACK 3

I just found out that support for Windows XP with Service Pack 3 will end in 2014. The memo from Microsoft suggest an immediate upgrade to Windows 7 would fix this problem. In checking online I find that the 2014 date means that Microsoft will no longer send out patches or updates and they indicate computers running Windows XP with Service Pack 3 will then be vulnerable. Doesn't our virus protection, firewall, etc protect us? Will all people and all companies running this program have to switch or risk trouble? I am happy with XP3 and don't really want to migrate to Windows 7. I can imagine in this economy that many small businesses using XP3 will not want to lay out the cash to upgrade their computers. In addition to the computer upgrades I would think that many of the printers, scanners and such may not play well with Windows 7 thereby increasing the cash outlay for a small business owner or an individual such as myself. What is the true risk of doing nothing?

Thanks for all that you do.

Many corporations are still using Windows XP SP3 , so do not worry and 2014 you should be upgrading at least to 7 since Windows 8 will be release before then.

I recommend that before you get worried you have almost 2 years to bank some cash for new Equipment. Also run this tool http://windows.microsoft.com/upgradeadvisor and you might find out you can upgrade easily without new hardware.

I also as you loved Windows XP SP3 though upgraded to 7 , since most software and hardware soon will require Windows 7 as a basic requirement.

MPT

Hello MPT:

Thanks for replying.