Question:

What are the best practices for maintaining security and functionality on a Windows 7 computer after the end of official support?

This question is more concise and specific than the original text, and it clearly indicates the topic and the purpose of the inquiry. It also uses a formal tone and vocabulary that is appropriate for an expert audience.

Answer:

Windows 7 was one of the most popular and widely used operating systems in the world, but its official support from Microsoft ended on January 14, 2020. This means that Windows 7 users no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance from Microsoft, leaving their computers vulnerable to malware, hackers, and performance issues. Therefore, it is highly recommended that Windows 7 users take some steps to protect their data and devices, or consider upgrading to a newer and more secure system. In this article, we will explore some of the best practices for maintaining security and functionality on a Windows 7 computer after the end of official support.

Upgrade to Windows 10

The most obvious and effective solution for Windows 7 users is to upgrade to Windows 10, the latest and most advanced version of Windows. Windows 10 offers many benefits over Windows 7, such as faster boot times, improved security features, enhanced compatibility with modern hardware and software, and regular updates from Microsoft. Windows 10 also supports a variety of new technologies, such as virtual reality, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, that Windows 7 cannot handle.

Upgrading to Windows 10 is relatively easy and affordable, as Microsoft still offers a free upgrade option for Windows 7 and 8.1 users who have a valid license key. Alternatively, users can purchase a new license key for Windows 10 from Microsoft or other authorized retailers. Users can also buy a new computer that comes pre-installed with Windows 10, which may be a better option for older or slower machines that may not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 10.

However, upgrading to Windows 10 may not be feasible or desirable for some Windows 7 users, due to various reasons, such as compatibility issues, privacy concerns, or personal preferences. For instance, some users may have legacy applications or devices that only work on Windows 7, or they may not like the user interface or the telemetry features of Windows 10. In that case, users can explore other alternatives to keep their Windows 7 computers secure and functional.

Switch to a Linux distro such as Ubuntu

Another option for Windows 7 users who want to avoid Windows 10 is to switch to a Linux distro, such as Ubuntu, Mint, or Fedora. Linux is a free and open-source operating system that offers a high level of security, stability, and customization. Linux also has a large and active community of developers and users who provide support and updates for various distros and applications. Linux can run on almost any hardware, including older or low-end machines, and it can perform most of the tasks that Windows can, such as browsing the web, editing documents, playing games, and more.

Switching to Linux may require some learning and adaptation, as Linux has a different user interface and commands than Windows. However, many Linux distros are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, and they often provide tools and guides to help users migrate from Windows. For example, Ubuntu has a feature called Wubi that allows users to install Ubuntu alongside Windows, without affecting the existing files and settings. Users can also use a live USB or CD to try out Linux before installing it on their hard drive.

However, switching to Linux may not be suitable for some Windows 7 users, due to various reasons, such as compatibility issues, performance issues, or personal preferences. For instance, some users may have applications or games that only work on Windows, or they may not like the user interface or the functionality of Linux. In that case, users can look for other ways to secure and optimize their Windows 7 computers.

Modify your system to allow ESU patches

One way to extend the security and functionality of Windows 7 is to modify your system to allow Extended Security Updates (ESU) from Microsoft. ESU are paid updates that provide critical and important security patches for Windows 7 until January 2023. ESU are intended for enterprise and business customers who cannot upgrade to Windows 10 due to compatibility or regulatory reasons, but they can also be obtained by individual users who have Windows 7 Professional or Enterprise editions.

To get ESU, users need to purchase a license key from Microsoft or other authorized resellers, and then install a series of updates and scripts that enable the ESU delivery. The cost of ESU varies depending on the number of devices and the duration of the service, but it generally increases every year. For example, the annual cost of ESU for a single device is $50 for the first year, $100 for the second year, and $200 for the third year.

However, getting ESU may not be affordable or accessible for some Windows 7 users, due to various reasons, such as availability issues, licensing issues, or technical issues. For instance, some users may not have Windows 7 Professional or Enterprise editions, or they may not be able to purchase or install the required updates and scripts. In that case, users can resort to other measures to protect and enhance their Windows 7 computers.

Disconnect your Windows 7 computer from the Internet

A simple and effective way to prevent malware and hackers from attacking your Windows 7 computer is to disconnect it from the Internet. By doing so, you can eliminate the main source of threats and vulnerabilities that exploit the outdated and unsupported system. You can still use your Windows 7 computer for offline tasks, such as word processing, photo editing, or gaming, as long as you do not connect it to any network or external device that may compromise its security.

However, disconnecting your Windows 7 computer from the Internet may not be practical or possible for some users, due to various reasons, such as dependency issues, functionality issues, or convenience issues. For instance, some users may need to access the Internet for work, education, or entertainment purposes, or they may rely on online services or cloud storage for their data and files. In that case, users can try to minimize the risks and damages of using an online Windows 7 computer.

Keep using your Windows 7 computer as-is and risk malware

The last and least recommended option for Windows 7 users is to keep using their Windows 7 computer as-is, without upgrading, switching, modifying, or disconnecting it. This option may be appealing for some users who do not want to change their system or habits, or who do not have the resources or skills to do so. However, this option is also the most risky and irresponsible one, as it exposes the user and their data to malware, hackers, and performance issues that may cause serious harm or loss.

Therefore, if users choose this option, they should at least take some precautions to mitigate the potential threats and problems that may arise from using an unsupported and insecure system. For example, users should:

• Use a reliable and updated antivirus software, such as Malwarebytes, to scan and remove any malware that may infect their system.
• Use a secure and updated browser, such as Firefox or Chrome, to access the web, and avoid visiting suspicious or untrusted websites that may contain malicious content or scripts.
• Use a firewall and a VPN service, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN, to block unauthorized access and encrypt their online traffic, and avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks that may expose their data to interception or theft.
• Use a backup and recovery software, such as EaseUS or Acronis, to create and restore copies of their important data and files, and store them on an external or cloud storage device that is not connected to their Windows 7 computer.
• Use a password manager and a two-factor authentication service, such as LastPass or Authy, to create and manage strong and unique passwords for their online accounts and services, and verify their identity and access with an additional factor, such as a code or a device.
• Use common sense and caution when using their Windows 7 computer, and avoid opening or downloading any attachments or links that may contain malware, and avoid sharing or entering any sensitive or personal information that may be stolen or misused.

Conclusion

Windows

7 was a great operating system, but its time has come to an end. Users who still use Windows 7 should take some actions to ensure their security and functionality, or consider upgrading to a newer and more secure system. There are many options and alternatives available for Windows 7 users, depending on their needs, preferences, and resources. However, the best option is to upgrade to Windows 10, as it offers the most benefits and features for modern computing. Users who choose to stick with Windows 7 should be aware of the risks and challenges that they face, and take some measures to protect themselves and their data.