Security updates and bug fixes will no longer be provided by Windows 7 after January 2020.There may still be unfixed bugs or security holes in Windows 7, as a large percentage of users still use it.Some of the options that Windows 7 users have after the end of support will be explored in this wikiHow.
Step 1: All of your important data should be backed up.
All of your important data should be backed up to a physical drive.Do not leave your data exposed on Windows 7 if you choose to continue using it.You can restore the data on Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 by going to the Control Panel.
Step 2: If you really want to, continue using Windows 7 past the end of support.
This is not recommended, but if you choose to do so, take note of the following: Antivirus does not protect your computer when it is out of support.Microsoft Security Essentials will not be as effective as it used to be, meaning you may be at risk for viruses and other forms of malware.Even though your computer will work the same, you may be exposed to more infections than on newer systems.There will be more and more apps, but Windows 7 won't support them.As developers develop for Windows 10, there will be less desktop apps and more Microsoft Store apps.These apps can't be run on Windows 7 computers.The newer hardware won't work on Windows 7 computers.The drivers may not be supported.Microsoft will not be able to provide technical support if your computer has a technical issue.If you run an operating system that is not up to date, you may run into legal issues.If you run Windows 7 after the end-of-support date, you may want to shut down your computer's wi-fi and ethernet cables.You need to be very careful with the USB drives.All Windows 7 updates should be installed before the support ends.Business users can pay for three more years of support for their version of Windows if they have a volume license.Businesses with a lot of data should use this upgrade.
Step 3: Your computer will be upgraded to Windows 10.
If you're able to upgrade, this is a safer option.Most desktop apps are compatible with both Windows 7 and Windows 10.You may have to upgrade to an earlier version of Windows 10 if your computer does not meet the full hardware requirements.The desktop apps will work.If they don't work, you can use the compatibility troubleshooter to see if there are problems with the app.
Step 4: Buying a new PC is a good idea.
It's possible that your computer is really old.You may not be able to run Windows 10 if it came with Windows 2000 orVista.There are a lot of new options for new PCs.You will be able to restore your files when you upgrade from Windows 7 to 10.
Step 5: Old apps should work on Windows 10.
Maintaining compatibility is something Microsoft has excelled at.If you have an old app on your computer, it will work the same as it did when it was first released.The Windows 10 installation will let you know if any apps won't work correctly after the upgrade.If they don't work, you should run the compatibility troubleshooter."Program Compatibility Troubleshooter" can be found in the settings under Update & Security.
Step 6: The data collected by Windows 10 is only used to improve the operating system.
Data that may be collected include PC manufacturer, hardware spec, PC type, apps installed, and Windows build.When a crash happens, unintentionally collected data, such as parts of files, are discarded.
Step 7: Don't worry about the removal of features.
Modern technology makes it possible to replace or improve upon them.Windows DVD Player will be installed if you are using Media Center.The only use of CDs in this year is for games and discs for consoles.You will be able to play DVD's on the console.You can limit the apps that guests can use on your computer with Assigned Access, even though guest accounts have been removed from Windows 10.Microsoft Minesweeper, Spider Solitaire, FreeCell, and Microsoft Solitaire Collection are all free to download in the Microsoft Store.Other games can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.
Step 8: It's not necessary for a Microsoft account to work in Windows 10.
Some features, such as paid Microsoft Store apps, require a Microsoft account.If you have a Microsoft account, Microsoft Edge will work with more features.You don't need a Microsoft account to use Windows 10 desktop apps.
Step 9: After Windows 7 end of support, you won't have to pay for Windows 10 updates.
This is a common misconception.For the lifespan of the operating system, Windows 10 updates will be free.Windows as a service means that all computers will get additional features with every update at the same time, so no computer will be missing features.You can defer system upgrades if the Windows build is still supported.There are features that will not work because of your hardware.
Step 10: Windows 7 will work as it does now.
Windows Vista and Windows XP are still working today.There are no security patches or bug fixes.If a large number of computers are affected by a virus, Microsoft may release an emergency patch.Your computer won't get any updates other than these patches.