If you look back on previous Windows versions, does Windows Vista come to mind? It’s perhaps one of the most unsuccessful versions of Microsoft’s operating systems, and it’s not surprising at all that the company has decided to pull the plug (meaning no more extended support) on April 11.
In other words, Windows Vista will no longer receive security updates and will no longer be supported by the mothership. If you are still running this OS, keep in mind that you will soon be unprotected and thus, exposed to the various attack vectors currently available in the wild. If you’re on Windows XP, you are also vulnerable.
Related: No More Google Chrome on Windows XP, Vista
Windows Vista’s Extended Support to End on April 11, 2017
Nonetheless, if we compare Windows XP and Windows Vista, the company’s mission is somehow easier as Vista is active on about 1 percent of systems are still using it. According to Windows lifecycle fact sheet, the end of mainstream support for Vista became a fact on April 10, 2012. April 11, 2017 is the end date of the extended support. That being said, the last security patches will be released in April.
As explained by Microsoft:
If you continue to use Windows Vista after support has ended, your computer will still work but it might become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Internet Explorer 9 is no longer supported, so if your Windows Vista PC is connected to the Internet and you use Internet Explorer 9 to surf the web, you might be exposing your PC to additional threats.
Microsoft Security Essentials, AV Products Won’t Be of Much Use Any Longer
Keep in mind that the company has pulled the plug on Microsoft Security Essentials and it’s no longer available for download on Windows Vista. “If you already have Microsoft Security Essentials installed, you’ll continue to receive antimalware signature updates for a limited time,” the company warns.
Vista users should also note that any AV software, Essentials included will have “limited effectiveness” on systems that are not patched properly.
Related: Old Computers Make Users Drink and Shout, Microsoft Survey Says
However, please note that Microsoft Security Essentials (or any other antivirus software) will have limited effectiveness on PCs that do not have the latest security updates. This means that PCs running Windows Vista will not be secure and will still be at risk for virus and malware.
The conclusion? Get ready to say “Hasta la vista” to Windows Vista!
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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