The big news in technology these days is that after 12 years, Microsoft has made the decision to stop supporting Windows XP. This was the longest supported operating system for Microsoft to date, a full two years past the ten-year standard that they normally provide. Now, as millions of XP users migrate to new operating systems, the smart ones are putting data recovery safeguards in place to protect their digital resources before, during and after any OS upgrades.
What does this mean for the end user really? There are a few choices to be considered and we will run through them briefly here:
1. What If I Just Stay On Windows XP?
The first choice would be to continue using Windows XP unprotected. We say unprotected because Microsoft will no longer be developing the vital security updates that help to keep your PC virus free and operating correctly. Even more dangerous in some cases than viruses or malware, honest developers will no longer be testing their software for compatibility with XP which opens the door to a long list of potential file corruptions. Manufacturers of scanners, digital cameras and printers will also cease to create drivers for their products on the XP platform, which severely restricts the kind of peripherals you would be able to use on an XP system in the immediate future.
2. How About Upgrading To The Newest Version Of Windows?
The second choice would be to upgrade your operating system to the latest version. This is a simple way to keep your PC running correctly and have the added advantage of Microsoft actively fixing any security leaks as they are realized. If your PC can not handle an operating system upgrade, then it may be time to consider investing in a new PC for yourself. Fortunately the cost of hardware has come down substantially in recent years, and the cost of a computer is only a tiny fraction when compare to the value of the data on it in most cases.
3. Is There Something Else I Should Consider While Upgrading?
Whenever you embark on upgrading to a new PC, hardware, software or operating system, it is of the utmost importance to back up your existing data. This way your files will be safe and secure when you are ready to access them again. Unfortunately, with any upgrade or data migration there is always a real risk of files getting corrupted or facing the infamous ‘blue screen of death’ as a result of software issues. This prospect used to set IT departments into a panic, but not anymore. Stellar Phoenix Data Recovery 6 is software that can be added in advance and automatically fixes any corrupt files while restoring your data back to new with a simple point-and-click process anyone can use! In three easy steps, you will be on the road to recovering your Office documents, Acrobat files, back up files, photos and other valuable information that was accidentally lost, damaged or deleted.
Embrace the new technology in whichever way is best for you, and know that Stellar Phoenix Data Recovery software has got your back any time you are wishing you’ve got a backup!