Windows XP support is ending on April 8, 2014

Updated: 05/21/2018 by Computer Hope
Windows XP

Microsoft released Windows XP on October 25, 2001. Support for this operating system ended on April 8, 2014, which means that they will no longer be providing any updates, patches, or further software security.

If you are still running Windows XP, it continues to work after this date, but if a security vulnerability is discovered, it's not fixed by Microsoft.

Microsoft discontinued anti-malware support MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) for Windows XP on July 14, 2015. Most other antivirus developers have also stopped providing support for Windows XP. While this offers some protection for your computer, it still will not protect against any new vulnerabilities not yet released or discovered.

Some people argue that since Windows XP is such an established operating system, it is not likely that any new security vulnerabilities will be discovered. However, most experts recommend upgrading to a later version of Windows, at least Windows 7, if not Windows 8 or Windows 10.

If your computer does not meet the system requirements of a newer version of Windows, we suggest getting a new computer with a more up-to-date version of Windows pre-installed. Alternatively, to keep the older computer and don't need Windows, you may also consider switching to Linux distro.

Tip

If your hesitation of upgrading Windows is because you have an older program designed for Windows XP, Windows XP mode helps older programs run in new versions of Windows.

What if I still want to run and use Windows XP?

If you plan on continuing to use Microsoft Windows XP after April 8, 2014, follow the below suggestions.

  1. Don't use an administrator account - Use a limited account and not an admin account. If you use an account with limited rights, spyware, malware, and other exploits won't work or are less likely to work.
  2. Use an alternative, supported browser - Internet Explorer and Chrome are no longer supported in Windows XP. Instead, use an alternative browser that is still supported and being updated, such as Opera or Firefox.
  3. Keep your browser plugins and extensions updated - Plug-ins like Java and Flash are one of the most common methods of attacking a computer. Keep your browser and all its plug-ins up-to-date. You can find the latest version of all your plug-ins through our system information tool. If you don't use a plug-in that is installed (e.g., Java), uninstall it from the computer.
  4. Keep the computer offline - If this is a work computer that doesn't need to be online, keep it offline. Without having access to the Internet, the computer cannot be attacked.
  5. Follow all the steps to protect yourself while online. See: How to protect yourself while on the Internet.

Related questions

Can Windows XP still be installed and activated after April 8, 2014?

Yes. You'll still be able to run, install, and activate Windows XP after April 8, 2014.

What about Windows XP Embedded?

Windows XP Embedded support ended on January 12, 2016.