On January 14, 2020 Microsoft will end extended support for Windows 7. While the operating system won’t stop functioning on that date, it will quickly become less secure as Microsoft stops releasing updates that protect it from being compromised by cybercriminals. Similarly, in 2014, Microsoft retired Windows XP and within just a few months, cybercriminals developed dangerous exploits specifically targeting businesses running Windows XP. If your dealership is using Windows 7 and continues to do so then you are putting your business in imminent danger of falling victim to cybercrime. Rest assured, cybercriminals will be looking to exploit businesses that don’t migrate off of Windows 7.
Windows 10 is Microsoft’s replacement operating system for Windows 7. Windows 10 is a major advancement for Microsoft since it’s designed to leverage the cloud and offers more security than its predecessors. Microsoft’s investment in the Windows 10 operating system and its cloud integration will greatly enhance its security capabilities. As the incidences of cybercrime steadily rise, this innovation comes at an opportune time. With Windows 10, patching cannot be blocked, only deferred for a brief period. This required patching will force industry software vendors to keep their applications updated and thereby more secure.
Helion has a validated plan which we are rolling out and presenting to each of our clients. For PCs 5 years or older, we are recommending that the PC be replaced since Windows 10 does require more system resources to run effectively.
Large-scale software and hardware replacements are a tremendous task. As the largest IT service provider focusing specifically on the unique needs of dealers, Helion is well prepared for this challenge. However, please keep in mind that time is of the essence. January 14, 2020 will be here before you know it and if you’re not on Windows 10 before that point then you are at risk of a cybersecurity breach. Helion will be performing the upgrade/replacement projects on a first-come, first-served basis. Helion clients can expect their Client Technology Manager to be in contact with them shortly to discuss a migration plan – if they haven’t already been in contact with you. For those who aren’t Helion clients, if you need help, please don’t hesitate to let us know.