Windows XP Death Watch: Microsoft Support Ends Soon

In just a few weeks, Microsoft will stop supporting its Windows XP operating system (OS).

The manufacturer will cease security upgrades and support service for XP users on April 8, 2014, making any XP system in the world be more vulnerable to hack attacks and data theft.

“If you continue to use Windows XP after support ends, your computer should still work, but it will become five times more vulnerable to security risks and viruses,” according to Microsoft. “And as more software and hardware manufacturers continue to optimize for more recent versions of Windows, a greater number of the latest programs and devices, like cameras and printers, won’t work with Windows XP.”

Naturally, Microsoft wants users to upgrade to a newer version of Windows or to buy a new computer with the current OS already installed.

There are other options, however, when it comes to operating systems. Choices include switching over to Apple, Linux or a few of the other operating systems, including the Android OS (mostly used on smartphones and tablets).

Here’s a good overview of options for XP users from TechRepublic.