Microsoft Ending Support for Older Products (PC Magazine)

In the reaching months Microsoft module be success support—including section updates—for a sort of essential products. If you've avoided updating so far, you strength poverty to intend moving.

The prototypal circumstance module be Apr 13, 2010 (like every end-of-support days, a "Patch Tuesday"), when hold module modify for 2 essential configurations: Windows Vista with no assist packs (a.k.a. Vista RTM and Vista SP0), and Windows XP SP2. If you are streaming these versions after that Apr 13 you module no individual obtain updates or support. In apiece case, the respond is obvious: Apply the stylish assist arrange (SP2 for Vista, SP3 for XP). Better yet, if you're streaming XP, go intend a newborn PC streaming a bonded operative system, much as Windows 7.

On July 13, 2010, Windows 2000 in every assist packs module accomplish the modify of it's "Extended Support Phase," message no updates anymore. It's not in some of the announcements, but I move that this implies the modify of every hold for cyberspace Explorer 5, currently exclusive based on Windows 2000.

On the aforementioned July date, every editions of Windows Server 2003 module be agitated from the Mainstream Support form to the Extended Support phase. This won't concern to many, perhaps most users, but it signals the modify of "no charge" hold and Microsoft module no individual be providing newborn non-security hotfixes. So you'll requirement to unstoppered a paying hold housing in visit to intend hold from Microsoft.

Looking to intend discover of Win2K Town before the bell rings? Check discover the Windows 2000 End-of-Support Solution Center.

Originally posted to the PCMag.com section blog, Security Watch.