As careful observers of expiration dates on food items like milk, eggs, bread and other food products, the idea of a product being past its due-to-expire date is not new.
We wouldn’t think of hiding that expired milk in some cookies! Any more than we would a couple of past-due eggs in an omelet. So when it comes to a computer’s operating system, it’s no big deal. Right?
Honestly. It’s time for a change! XP Pro is past its expiration date for support. Here are some alternatives from Microsoft for your home system.
To stay protected after support for Windows XP Pro ends, you have some options.
- The first option is to upgrade your current PC. Very few older computers will be able to run Windows 8.1, which is the latest version of Windows.
- To upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows Vista or Windows XP, you’ll need to install it from a Windows 8.1 DVD and perform a clean installation. This means you won’t be able to keep any files, settings, or programs when you upgrade.
- Windows 8.1 isn’t designed for installation on PCs running Windows Vista or Windows XP, so we strongly recommend you do the following before buying the Windows 8.1 DVD.
- We recommend that you download and run the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant to check if your PC meets the system requirements for Windows 8. If you’re running Windows XP, you need to have Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) installed to use Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant. For more info, go to the Service Pack and Update Center.
- You can also purchase a new PC. If your current PC can’t run Windows 8.1, it might be time to consider shopping for a new one.
- The new PC is more powerful, light weight, and stylish than ever before—and with an average price that’s considerably less expensive than the average PC was 10 years ago.
- Microsoft has done some shopping for you. Prove that you can get more for less by checking the handpicked devices listed on Microsoft.com starting at $249.
Happy omelet with your fresh new ingredients!