Oh but you should, is my reaction nowadays. I did not always think that way it has become an understanding over time. With, the advent of cyber Cryptoware and the complexity of Windows my point of view has really changed.
Cryptoware ware is malicious software that once executed will encrypt your entire hard drive and then make you pay a ransom for your files you did not backup.
However, it is not even the Cryptoware that really bothers me. There are things you can proactively do to prevent it from getting into the system and locking you out of your PC. A layered defense strategy is needed. If you are in need of that kind of help, call me my number is on my website www.arnoldconsult.com.
These things called zero day exploits are what really bother me. These are errors in the Windows code that nobody thought could be an error. Hackers are always testing Windows to see what code they can get to break and allow access into the system without appropriate credentials.
When hackers find these errors in the code, they are unknown to the developer. When the developer finds out about it, they put out a patch or send out an update. However, the key is finding out. Some hackers keep these errors now called exploits to themselves, others sell this information to entities on the dark web only findable by an IP address.
Windows 7 is not going to be patched any more by Microsoft – The operating system is end of life. That means the individuals that are holding these exploits are actively planning on using them in the near future. They understand that Microsoft is not putting any more resources into Windows 7 patching or development. They also understand there will always be some percentage of Windows 7 systems on the internet because, “I am still using windows 7 and it works great, and I’m not going to stop.”
Because it is an embedded operating system burned into ROM chips, some manufacturers have no choice but to run Windows 7 on these automated machines, and that is where a layered defense comes in. Some still use it because well it still works, and why should someone get a new computer when this one still works great.
However, what these folks do not understand, who are not compelled to use it, is their data is at risk from these zero day exploits, and the Cryptoware infections that come with them. What is doubly bad is very few people backup their computers and save their data somewhere else rather than on premise.
So, just because it still works … Why put your data at risk? The risk is much bigger using an Operating system that is End of Life.
Arnold Consulting can help with this issue we build desktops that are based on an ultra-durable Gigabyte mother board solution, our builds compared with other companies are about 15% lower with labor included for move in time with windows 10 loaded. Take a look at our new computer posting on our web site https://www.arnoldconsult.com/current-specials/special-03/
Sincerely,
Rick Arnold – Arnold Consulting