Even though Windows 7 is no longer supported by Microsoft, it is still a very popular operating system, and is used by more than a quarter of the computer market. Despite the fact that you can still operate a PC with Windows 7 and get a decent amount of work done, you should be aware of the security risks associated with it. Microsoft has repeatedly talked about the vulnerabilities that Windows 7 has, and hackers are already preparing themselves for the inevitable. The WannaCry attack revealed some of the vulnerabilities of Windows 7.
Many experts believe that Windows 7 is dangerous to use, and they have warned that it will only become more dangerous over time. The amount of risk associated with Windows 7 depends on the vulnerability, the severity of the flaw, and the ease of exploiting the vulnerability. There are still ways to protect your computer from these threats. Here are a few tips to make your PC safer:
What are the Risks of Using Windows 7 After 2020?
Microsoft is ending support for Windows 7, which means that no more security patches and updates will be released for it. Although more than a third of all computers in the world are still running Windows 7, that doesn’t mean that you should stop using it. Here are some risks that you should be aware of. Not only will your PC no longer receive security updates, but it will also be vulnerable to malware and other threats.
Viruses will still continue to target Windows 7 even though Microsoft will cease security updates and patches. You will be alone in the world, and this is a prime target for cyber criminals. Although Microsoft promised to continue providing security patches for its own antivirus, third-party developers are not. That means you are at risk if you’re not using antivirus software, or visiting questionable websites. Third-party antivirus developers will also eventually stop providing security updates for Windows 7.
Can You Still Use Windows 7 in 2020?
As with any product, it’s possible to run out of time before your favorite version is no longer supported. By July 2021, roughly 16% of all Windows PCs will still be running the Windows 7 operating system. That’s not a significant number, but you should keep in mind that some of these devices are likely inactive. During that time, Microsoft has stopped providing security patches, tech support, and software updates for this platform.
While Windows 10 is fast catching up, Windows 7 is still an excellent choice for many users. In fact, over a third of PC users still use Windows 7 today. The survey conducted by Which? showed that over one third of Windows users are still using Windows 7. However, according to StatCounter, that number will rise. This is a warning sign for people to upgrade as soon as possible. However, you should be aware that you may run out of time before Windows 10’s end-of-life date.
Microsoft estimates that there are around 1.5 billion active Windows users. Windows 7 users make up at least 100 million of them, while 1 billion are active Windows 10 users. So, in the future, Windows 7 might be the only operating system still widely used worldwide. And, of course, this number could increase even further, if the Windows 7 users are still a large enough segment of the market. In the meantime, the future is nigh.
Can I Use Windows 7 in 2021?
Microsoft has announced that they will no longer be providing security patches and software updates for Windows 7. This means that if you’re still using Windows 7, you’ll soon be vulnerable to malware. Microsoft recommends that you upgrade to a newer version of Windows as soon as possible, ideally before 2021. Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 10, comes with regular updates. If you’re using a Windows 7 PC, you should upgrade now!
While some are still not convinced by Windows 7, it has strong features, especially in the area of security. According to Laptop Magazine, the OS has improved overall performance and makes computing easier. It also increases battery life drastically. And PC World ranked it one of the best products of the year. In addition, Engadget noted that Windows 7 has some risks. Regardless of the risks, the operating system is still the best choice for most PC users.
The Windows Experience Index has climbed from 2.5 to 2.9 in the last few years. But despite this, Microsoft still hasn’t said when it will stop supporting the operating system. However, you can consider Windows 10 as an option if you’re not sure which one is right for you. Microsoft has also promised to make the upgrade path as smooth as possible. So, if you’re using Windows 7 today, consider upgrading to Windows 10 as soon as possible.
How Do I Keep Windows 7 Forever?
When you upgrade to a newer version of Windows, you’ll be asked, “How do I keep Windows 7 forever?” The answer depends on what you plan to do with your old computer. If you’re still using it, you can keep it and use it as a desktop, laptop, or tablet. As long as you keep your security software updated and use caution when downloading or opening emails, Windows 7 will continue to run and work for years to come.
The best way to preserve your old system is to perform a backup regularly. There are several free and effective backup routines for Windows 7. To back up your system, you need to have an external hard drive plugged in and an operating system image created. You can store this image on your computer’s hard drive or on a DVD. Windows Easy Transfer is another option to preserve your old system. To make use of Windows Easy Transfer, follow the instructions posted by Lance Whitney on TechNet.
How Can I Protect My Windows 7?
Although windows 7 is no match for macos or linux, it can still be safe for your PC. The first step to ensuring safety is to create 2 different accounts: one administrator and one user. Use the user account for everything else, and make sure the administrator account is password protected. These two precautionary steps can prevent 95% of potential threats. Security updates for windows 7 will continue until 2020. To keep your PC safe, take advantage of these updates.
If you’re worried about malware on your Windows 7 computer, try to disable administrator privileges. Administrator accounts give bad guys access to the computing kingdom, so it’s best to disable these accounts. Another way to protect your PC is to upgrade to Windows 10. If you don’t have an internet connection, you can upgrade your existing Windows 7 machine to Windows 10 for free. Once you’ve upgraded, you’ll no longer be vulnerable to attacks.
What Happens If I Use Windows 7?
If you’re still using Windows 7, you may be wondering: What happens when support ends? Windows 7 isn’t dead, but it won’t be getting any more security updates for a while. In fact, Microsoft will stop giving security patches and updates for Windows 7 users after January 14 next year. Although you can still operate your computer with Windows 7, you will be at risk of malware. And as you probably know, over one-quarter of computers still run on Windows 7. So, is it safe to keep using it?
Microsoft is planning to stop providing security updates for Windows 7 on January 14, 2020. This change will affect computers that are used on the internet. Microsoft has made a strategy of providing security patches and updates to Windows 7 for a decade after it was released, but this isn’t the best way to keep your system updated. In addition to that, you’ll risk losing your PC’s warranty. This is where Windows 10 comes in.
Can Windows 7 Still Connect to the Internet?
If your PC is running on Windows 7, you may be wondering: Can Windows 7 still connect to the internet? You’re not alone. More than a quarter of all computers are running this outdated operating system. However, if you’re wondering whether your PC is secure, you’re not alone. Windows 7 users are at high risk for malware because they don’t receive security updates and patches. However, if you have a Windows 7 computer, you can continue to use it until 2020, when Microsoft recommends users upgrade to Windows 10.
Windows 7 users can enable the LAN connection through the network settings. Navigate to Network and Sharing Center, then select Advanced TCP/IP Settings. Here, you can enable Local Area Connection. You can select IP Address, DNS suffixes, DHCP enabled, and WINS. You can change the IP address and other settings by clicking the “Advanced” button. You will now be able to browse the internet from Windows 7.
Learn More Here:
3.) Windows Blog
4.) Windows Central