How will the "End Of Support" for Windows 8.1 on January 10th, 2023 affect your business, and what you can do to make sure your business continues to operate without interruptions?
What happens when the support ends for Windows 8.1?
When Microsoft ends support for one of its Operating Systems due to its age the effects are usually far grater than just a lack of Security Updates and new Patches. Other Microsoft applications may also be affected, as is the case here with Office 365 Apps. Should you require an update to a Third-Party software, such as Quick Books, AutoCAD, or other specialize applications, those will not be available to you until a current Operating System is used.
Does it mean that your current computers will just simply stop working all together on January 10th, 2023? No. The computers will continue to operate like they had before, however, all the software you are using will be more prone to virus and hacker attacks as new vulnerabilities are discovered creating a new set of challenges.
How will the Windows 8.1 End Of Support affect by business?
If you are a business that heavily relies on technology but got left behind running your computer infrastructure on an Operating System that is about to become obsolete, it could have potentially disastrous consequences. Lose of production, inability to provide customer support, inability to invoice for products and service, delays in payments to suppliers, and payroll processing for several days or even weeks could spell an end to your operation.
What can I do now to avoid trouble?
The ideal way to proceed would be to upgrade all systems to the most current OS, the Windows 11, before January 10th. However, we understand the challenges of such a project and know that it may not be the optimal way from a business' operational perspective, therefore, we suggest splitting the project into two or three phases:
Phase One:
Upgrade the computers that are the most vital to the operation of the business, i.e: the accounting, payroll, inventory and production tracking & management systems.
Phase Two:
Complete upgrading the rest of the system, or the less important and the least used workstations.
Phase Three:
The workstations running Legacy systems, or those that are rarely used but still needed.
How about updating to Windows 10 for now, you may ask?
It may seem like a good idea at the moment; less expensive and faster to implement are the obvious benefits. However, you have to remember that Windows 10 will also come to the End Of Support on October 14th, 2023 leaving you with less then 3 years before you are faced with the same issue.
Conclusion:
Rather sooner than later, you will be forced to upgrade to the most current OS on the market. There is no point delaying, fighting or arguing if you wish to remain in business and be profitable. We all face personal and business changes every day. Those who adapt the fastest seem to be leading their respective markets, and are the happiest in their personal lives as well.
Where can I get help?
Cimplex Solutions Inc. have done numerous infrastructure upgrades going as far back as Windows XP. We are a One-Stop-Shop for all your IT needs and can supply you with all the hardware, software and services you need to upgrade from your current Windows 8.1 to Windows 11.
If you are ready, we are here to help. Do not delay, call us now at 416-909-9176, or follow this link for more contact options - January 10th is only a few weeks away!