On April 13, 2010, Vista RTM will reach the end of support while on July 13, 2010, Windows XP SP2 and Windows 2000 Professional will reach the same milestone. In addition, Microsoft will be ending support for Windows Server 2000 and moving Windows 2003 from Mainstream Support to Extended Support.
The end of support means there will be no more security updates for these versions. This is in-line with our existing support lifecycle policy that has been in place since 2002.
It’s important that all customers take an action prior to the end of support date to ensure they are as secure as possible with their Windows PCs. Options include:
· For customers ready to update their PCs or OS to a newer version, Windows 7 provides the best experience today. Windows 7 is faster, easier and works the way customers want.
· Customers not ready to upgrade and continue to use Windows XP or Windows Vista should download and install the latest service pack: either Windows XP SP3 or Windows Vista SP2
Microsoft is making it as easy as possible for customers to understand what version of Windows XP and Windows Vista they’re using today and how to upgrade their PCs to the version that’s right for them
· Consumers should visit http://windows.microsoft.com/eos for information and assistance.
· For SMB customers with a Select agreement, we will continue to offer the “Up to Date Discount” program through July 2010. Visit www.windows.com/business for more information
· For enterprise customers that need to stay on the unsupported products, there is the option for them to purchase custom support, to continue to receive custom updates.
Updates that keep customers’ PCs safe are provided through Windows Update at no cost. All customers should turn on automatic updates to get critical updates automatically, and check in every once in a while to make sure they are getting all the latest improvements for your PC. This includes upgrading to Internet Explorer 8 and downloading Microsoft Security Essentials.
What a bunch of bollocks…MS why end support for Vista already??…Vista came out like 5 years after XP. Vista should be supported for another 3 years at least. It isn’t half as bad as what some people claim it to be. Disappointed!