Windows 7 might not be completely dead after all
You can still run Windows 7 without regular security patches - but at your own risk
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Despite theofficial life span of Windows 7 endingearlier this week, reports have claimed that the software may still live on for a bit longer.
Microsofthas apparently added UEFI and Secure Boot toWindows 7, potentially extending the life of machines still utilizing the platform without the worries of being hit by a cyberattack.
Secure Boot allows a computer to check that the software and firmware drivers it uses at boot are signed off by the manufacturer. Its late addition to Windows 7 could be a further nod to the fact that the platform remains a firm favorite for many business users who rely on the OS to run certainoffice software.
Windows 7 Secure Boot
While official support for Windows 7 ended in 2020, in recognition that many enterprise and education users were still using the OS that first debuted in 2009, Microsoft opened up an Extended Security Updates program in an effort to keep bugs at bay in its hitoperating system.
Fast forward three years, and Microsoft has now ended that program, as of 10 January 2023, which leaves many users now wondering what to do, and whether they should bite the bullet and upgrade to a newer version of the Windows operating system.
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According to figures byStatcounter, Windows 7 accounted for 11.2% of all Windows installations at the end of 2022, making it less popular thanWindows 11which accounted for a touch under 17% of all installs, though the figures suggest thatWindows 11only passed Windows 7 in terms of popularity in August 2022.
Heading up the charts, according to Statcounter, isWindows 10, occupying more than two-thirds of the Windows market, whileWindows 8and 8.1 take up just 3.26% combined.
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Joining Windows 7 in its end of life is Windows 8.1, which never gained as much traction as its predecessor, leaving computer users who want regular security patches to pick between Windows 10 and Windows 11.
ViaTom’s Hardware
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
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