My Computer Mechanic

The Time Has Come to Replace XP

It's familiar, like an old friend. You know it, and it knows you. I'm talking about Windows XP. Since 2001, Windows XP has graced many PCs. We've seen it grow into a capable & reliable operating system. But that was nearly 10 years ago, and the time has come to say goodbye to Windows XP for good.

The bottom line is that Windows XP simply isn't as secure, nor is it as reliable as Windows 7. (We can forget about the mistake that was Vista. All is forgiven, Microsoft.) Windows 7 is more secure, offers better hardware support, & is more reliable than Windows XP. The #1 reason individuals bring us a PC is a virus. Windows 7 has better built-in features to protect you against these viruses. Additionally, Internet Explorer 9 is available only on Windows 7 (and Vista, but we're forgetting about that). Internet Explorer 9 has some nice upgrades to security that will help prevent viruses. Of course, I also have to recommend you use the Google Chrome browser for anything that doesn't absolutely require Internet Explorer. The Google Chrome browser is faster, easier to use, and more secure.

Windows XP is being left behind by Microsoft. It's not going to receive big updates anymore. Unless there's a massive issue with Windows XP, all efforts are on Windows 7. This means you're working with an operating system that is withering away. Microsoft wants you to forget about it. Moreover, all the new hardware is designed for Windows 7. Printers, scanners, cameras, etc. all want to run on Windows 7. Windows 7 knows how to talk to these devices and offers some true plug and play. Whereas Windows XP could be lost without a driver CD, Windows 7 can easily tap into an online database and download the necessary drivers for your peripherals. (Windows XP's version of this is flaky.)

Windows 7 is handling errors better than XP. As an example: When transferring a large quantity of files, Windows 7 can skip files that cause errors. Windows XP will give you an error and simply quit. Now you have no idea where Windows XP left off copying those files, so you have no idea where to start. These additions make Windows 7 a time saver. Windows 7 crashes less often and takes better advantage of today's newer hardware. Do you want more than 3.5GB of RAM in your PC? You're going to need Windows 7 64 bit. Windows XP 64 bit? Don't even try it unless you love inflicting pain upon yourself (you can't even buy it anymore!). Do you need the most powerful video card? You need Windows 7. Some peripherals don't even offer Windows XP drivers anymore.

For your safety, for your sanity, and to save time, you need to step up to the plate and start replacing those Windows XP machines. As a business, this could be a bigger step in terms of buying new software and ensuring everything is compatible. But if you're an individual with one or two PCs, the time has come to bite the bullet and move on. As a small business, consult with us and we can check your system over for compatibility issues. Either way, Windows 7 needs to be the new operating system standard for you.