‘67 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 fastback, ‘71 Plymouth Hemi Cuda, ‘57 Chevy Bel-Air: Cars that motor heads may have in their garage, but probably don’t drive every day. Can you imagine the gas mileage you would get on those cars versus a new shiny 2013 that is enviro-conscious?
Look, I’m not suggesting that it wasn’t a good run. It was. Maybe it’s time to put Windows XP in the garage, or even create a monument to it in the corner, as a reminder of what once was? XP is around 12 years old, and technology has passed her by.
You haven’t been able to buy a PC with Windows XP for several years, and with good reason. Technology has far surpassed the capabilities of XP, and now is the time to make a change. There are several reasons that you may or may not have already considered:
1.
SECURITY
Is there any better reason? Windows XP is very old, and has several holes which have been addressed in Windows 7 and Windows 8. Once Microsoft ends “extended support” on Windows XP on 4/8/2014, there will be no more security updates, leaving you susceptible to security risks. Hey, at least you don’t have to do Windows updates anymore on XP, right? No. That’s like installing a screen door when you need a steel door.
2.
STABILITY
Running Windows 7, I can’t remember the last time I received the blue screen of death. Another great reason to upgrade!
3.
COMPATIBILITY
Most software / hardware now functions on Windows 7 or Windows 8. If it doesn’t, consider Windows XP Mode as a potential workaround in instances where legacy software will not run on Windows 7 or Windows 8.
4.
SPEED
Windows 7 and Windows 8 are fast. Assuming you have hardware that is supported for use with Windows 7 or Windows 8, you’d be surprised at just how fast it is! After you’ve used Windows 7 or Windows 8, Win-dows XP almost seems unusable. If your hardware is relatively new, you may be able to upgrade to Windows 7 without purchasing a new PC.
5.
FACELIFT
You can make Windows 7 look like Windows XP, but why would you? If you’re concerned that moving to Windows 7 is going to be a huge change from a usability perspective, it’s not. Windows 7 controls are VERY similar to Windows XP, and you can set Windows 7 to use a Windows XP “style”. Windows 8 has a little different look with the addition of the Modern or “Metro” style, but still is very user friendly. If you’re not ready to make the jump to Windows 8 just yet, Windows 7 is still available on some manufacturers’ business oriented product lines.
6.
MONEY
It’s going to cost you money to stay on Windows XP. With the costs of fixing Windows XP due to security issues such as spyware, virus’, and general malware, why not spend those dollars on a new car instead of driving your clunker? Besides, a PC running XP is probably several years old, which means it has a much higher likelihood of a hardware failure than a newer system. Hardware failures can be time consuming and expensive to repair, along with the time needed to reload software and restore data.
Microsoft XP: I Love You, But It’s Time to Say Good-Bye
Most of us love an old car, but put it in your garage and drive it on Sundays. Drive your new shiny car with the top down…you’ll love it soon enough!
ABOUT KARMAK
Karmak, Inc. is a leading provider of business management solutions for the commercial transportation industry. With more than 30 years of heavy-duty experience, we offer a unique approach combining innovative technology, strategic advice and best practices. Our success programs produce measurable results by improving ROI, mitigating risks and achieving operational excellence.
Serving more than 1,800 locations across North America, Karmak is an employee-owned company with headquarters in Carlinville, Illinois.