Computers running Windows 7 increase security risks to clients’ networks because security updates stopped for Windows 7 when it reached end of life in January of 2020. Windows 7 was supported for 10 years by Microsoft. A recent Kaspersky survey found that almost one quarter (22%) of PC users are still using the end-of-life Operating System Windows 7. It has also been reported that “organizations continuing to operate with Microsoft Windows 7 platforms on the network infrastructure are at an increased risk of cyberattack, according to a private industry notification from the FBI.”
Clients who are still operating computers with Windows 7 should plan to upgrade these devices immediately. JustTech has flexible payment offerings including financing these devices for 3, 4 or 5 years to provide a lower monthly payment.
In addition for the future, clients should look at a Server & Computer Refresh Strategy. In general, servers should be replaced every 5 years, laptops should be replaced every 2-3 years and desktop computers every 3-5 years. Developing a Computer Refresh Strategy with clients can allow for the clients to budget for this necessary expense and have no surprises.
Why Develop and Manage a Server & Computer Refresh Strategy?
- Preventing Hardware Failures – If you have hardware that is not supported by the manufacturer, then it is a ticking time bomb ready to shut you down for a period of time if it does crash until we can get you a brand-new device. Developing a schedule for device replacement increases uptime and productivity.
- Effective Budgeting – Knowing you are going to have an expense every year is better than being surprised by an unexpected expense. Many companies develop a strategy of switching out devices at the end of their life just so they have a handle on their budget.
- Hardware Compatibility – We are seeing new hardware (printers, scanners, 3rd party devices) that interfaces with servers & computers not be backwards compatible with devices that are end of life from the manufacturer. This causes big workflow issues.
- Security Updates – Through JustTech’s Workstation & Server Management, JustTech provides software and security updates when released by the manufacturer. When devices go unsupported or end of life, JustTech can only proactively manage the device but cannot deploy updates that are not being made. This leaves devices susceptible to attack.
- Stay Current with Operating Systems – Microsoft announced Windows 7 & Windows Server 2008 would go end of life in January 2020. Most of older hardware is still running Windows 7 & Windows Server 2008. Microsoft advises that instead of purchasing the upgrades, that users should purchase new hardware to take advantage of all the benefits of the new operating systems.
- Increased Productivity – Technology keeps getting faster and newer technology will increase productivity. Applications will open faster, computers will power on more quickly and web pages will load faster.
In addition to replacing hardware that is no longer supported by the manufacturer, organizations need to develop a comprehensive network security strategy to protect against internal and external threats. With the recent cyber attack on the Colonial Pipeline where a ransom was paid of nearly 5 million dollars to retrieve files in order to restart the pipeline, it is important that businesses of all sizes ensure their network security strategy is up to date and comprehensive. One intrusion by cyber criminals or one innocent click by an employee can cost businesses lots of money and have even shut down businesses in some cases.
Contact us for more information.
About Just·Tech
Just·Tech, a 2020 Inc. 5000 designee is a technology company and has been keeping more than 3,000 clients happy since 2006 in providing our Print Solutions, Network & IT Solutions and custom Xerox App Solutions.
Areas we support:
- Washington DC Metropolitan area including parts of Virginia & Maryland and also Southern Maryland
- Northern Virginia, Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia
- North Eastern Virginia and the Northern Neck of Virginia including the cities of Fredericksburg & Stafford
- West Central Virginia including the cities of Harrisonburg, Staunton & Charlottesville
- South Western Virginia including the cities of Lynchburg and Roanoke
- North Central West Virginia including the cities of Fairmont, Clarksburg & Elkins
- WV/KY/OH tri-state region including the cities of Huntington, Charleston, Ashland and Portsmouth
Through our Print Solutions, we offer sales and support for Xerox multifunction copiers & printers. Just·Tech is a Strategic Xerox Partner and one of the top ten Xerox partners in the country. We also provide supplies & service support for HP, Lexmark, Dell and Brother printers. Currently we are managing thousands of copiers & printers making millions of copies & prints every month.
With our Network Solutions, we provide Managed Network Services & IT Support to hundreds of small businesses, non-profits and religious organizations. We specialize in proactive support and provide onsite & remote assistance.
Just·Tech is the first Xerox certified Personalized Application Builder Authorized Developer in the United States. With our App Solutions, we create custom apps for Xerox multifunction copiers that increase efficiency and improve workflows. Just·Tech is the exclusive reseller in the U.S. of the most affordable and complete print management app solution, PrintAnyWay. There are more than 60,000 apps that we have created installed on Xerox devices across the globe.
Contact us for more information.
