Bad news for Windows Vista hold-outs! This month, Microsoft announced they will no longer support Vista after April 11. What does this mean? You shouldn’t worry that you’ll suddenly lose access to files stored on a PC with Vista installed – the system will continue to work just fine. You definitely should, however, stay off the internet if you’re still using Windows Vista! That’s because Microsoft will no longer provide security updates for the OS, leaving your computer extremely vulnerable to attack.
To put it mildly, this version of Windows – which followed a smashing success in XP – has a checkered reputation. Even so, Windows Vista was installed on hundreds of millions of computers, and we know not all of those PCs have been upgraded or properly disposed of. Do you still have a PC with Windows Vista installed? It’s time to upgrade! Keep reading to learn about your options!
Upgrade to Windows 7
Upgrading an Operating System is rarely a walk in the park, but it’s worth the effort to keep your files and personal information safe. And, for those who prefer the look & feel of Windows Vista, Windows 7 will be a perfect fit. Windows 7 offers a more refined version of the interface introduced in Windows Vista. Microsoft will also continue to support this version into 2020, so you’ll have a few more years of reliable computing if you choose this route. Although it is a few years old, you can still find perfectly legal copies of Windows 7. You can expect to pay about $100-$140 to buy the software today, but we’ve occasionally seen prices go as low as $75.
Upgrade to Windows 10
If you want to keep your old computer in tip-top shape, we’d absolutely recommend upgrading to Windows 10. For as little as $10 more than you might pay for the considerably older Windows 7, you can get the newest and best version out there. And, for a slightly higher price, you’ll have an OS that will be fully supported for years to come. Windows 10 brings significant improvements in features, efficiency, and security, so we think it’s the best choice when upgrading your OS from Windows Vista.
Not sure you’ll fall in love with new interface that comes with Windows 10? Don’t worry! If you don’t like it, you can downgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 7 within a month of upgrading.
Upgrade your Computer!
If you’d like to revive and secure an old computer that has Windows Vista installed, go for it! But, as many of these computers are now 10 years old, it’s a great time to upgrade your hardware, too. Soon, your old hardware won’t be able to keep up with modern software (even websites!). When you need to upgrade something major like an Operating System, we recommend you spend a little more and invest in a computer that will be with you for the next 10 years – and the OS upgrade will come with your new computer!
We have a great selection of desktop computers and laptops to suit your needs, and we’re always here to help if you have any questions about upgrading your Windows Vista PC!
