Q: How long will windows 7 function? I don’t like windows 10. ~ Terry Breffle, Aurora
Tech+ Technically, Windows 7 will function until your hardware conks out — or your machine gets eaten by a virus or malware.
According to Microsoft, mainstream support of Windows 7 ended Jan. 13, 2015. Its extended support for Windows 7 with service pack 1, ends Jan. 14, 2020.
Extended support means that you may have to pay hourly for help, but it can include security updates at no additional cost. Some details are here (search for “Who can receive support in the Extended Support phase?”): dpo.st/windowslifecycle
Come 2020, there won’t even be extended support. The problem with no support is that no one is watching out for that version of Windows anymore. Microsoft isn’t making any promises that your system is safe or that it will fix old software if someone hacks Windows 7.
The other thing about using an old operating system is that it was built for older software. Windows 7, after all, launched in 2009, making it 8 years old this year. As any Windows operating system ages, it seems to get slower as it’s trying to process today’s technology or other new software.
This may not be a concern for you though if you find that Windows 7 works for your needs and you can’t imagine doing more on your computer than you do today.
Besides, you’ve still got more than two years!
To check your Windows’ end-of-life dates, here’s a list of dates courtesy of Microsoft: dpo.st/winendoflife
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