So Long Windows 7; Hello Windows 10!

In 2014 you may recall our big initiative was to upgrade or replace computers using the Windows XP operating system. Microsoft was no longer issuing security upgrades for the old operating system and Penn State could not accept the risk of attacks to critical university systems by allowing old operating systems on our network. In 2015 we helped all college employees into the Duo 2-Factor system. In 2016 we deployed Office 2016, and in 2018 we upgraded computers to the Office 365 applications and migrated everyone's email to Outlook 365.

Well then….what to do to avoid being the Devil's playground? It is time to follow-up on the 2014 Windows XP project by introducing the initiative to upgrade or relocate Windows 7 computers….upgrade to Windows 10, or relocate the device to Lion Surplus. Upgrade the upgradable, or replace the non-upgradable. Why? The same answer as in 2014 - Microsoft is ending support for this version of Windows, and we can't ignore the security risks of deprecated/abandoned software. As we move into the last of 2018 and enter the new year you will see more and more information on this project. One big advantage that we're seeing this year is that the process to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 is easier and faster than the XP to 7 migration.

If you are interested in getting ahead of the crowd, there are things that you can do today!

• If you would like to upgrade any Windows 7 computer that you manage to Win 10 today, we can help! Just contact your department's IT Consultant, or contact Ag IT Support!
• If you have responsibility for replacing computers, inventory your oldest computers and, if you find antiques, begin to budget for replacement. Need some advice on how old is too old? Just contact your department's IT Consultant, or contact Ag IT Support!
• If you use older specialty software that may not work with Windows 10, find out if a Windows 10 compatible version is available and if it is in your budget to upgrade. Need some advice on finding the developer? Just contact your department's IT Consultant, or contact Ag IT Support!
• If you use specialized equipment on a computer running Windows 7 make contact with your device manufacturer to see if your devices will work with Windows 10 and get their advice for upgrading. Need some advice on asking the right questions? Just contact your department's IT Consultant, or contact Ag IT Support!

Watch for more information as we move forward.