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By Don Reisinger on 2011-11-15
When Microsoft launched Windows XP at the turn of the millennium, no one was sure what to expect. Would the operating system become a mega-hit like Windows 98 or would it disappoint customers the way Windows Vista did? Now over a decade since its launch, Windows XP is widely considered one of the best operating system versions to ever hit store shelves. Companies around the globe are still running the operating system, even though two successors have launched. But the time has come for every company to finally cut the cord and ditch Windows XP. Yes, it’s a fine operating system that supports all your accessories and applications, but it’s really past its prime. And with an outdated design that many employees find tedious at this point as sleeker, easier to use competitors hit the market, it’s about time you ditch XP in favor of another operating system, such as Windows 7 or even Mac OS X Lion, that can deliver all the features you need – rather than settling for having only some of them. Flip through the following slides to find out why Windows XP, after a long tenure in your office, needs to go.
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1. It’s OutdatedThere’s no doubt that you’ve kept all your Windows XP installations up-to-date and working as well as possible, but no matter what you do, Windows XP is outdated. From its design to its sluggish performance, even on new computers, it’s time for XP to be put aside for something new.
2. Think About SecurityNow that Windows XP is running Service Pack 3, it’s far more secure than it was. However, it’s still not as secure as Windows 7 or even Mac OS X Lion. If security is one of your top priorities -- and it should be -- think seriously about ditching XP for something new.
3. Windows XP Mode in Windows 7Many companies say that they want to keep XP because it works with all the applications and accessories they use. However, with the launch of Windows 7, that’s not a good reason anymore. As long as you deploy Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise edition, you’ll get a virtual version of XP included. Say good-bye to incompatibility.
4. Don’t Get Locked Into Windows 8The last thing you want to do is wait too long to deploy a new operating system and get caught with Windows 8. Right now, we know that Windows 7 is a winner and a worthwhile enterprise option. But the jury is still out on Windows 8.
5. Employees Are Used to Newer Operating SystemsNow that Windows 7 has been out for a couple years, chances are, your employees are well-versed in how to use it. That’s a good thing. Because of their knowledge, you shouldn’t need to worry about training or seeing a drop in productivity.
6. Maybe Mac OS X Is a Better OptionIf you don’t need Microsoft’s OS conduct business, think seriously about dropping XP for Mac OS X Lion. Apple’s system is more secure than XP, well-designed, and thanks to its App Store, supports many of the applications you need. At least keep it in mind.
7. PCs Are AffordableToo often, CIOs have limited budgets, and can’t invest in everything they want. But with the PC market slumping, it’s a good time to make deals. Vendors like HP, Dell, and Lenovo are trying to attract new customers with good prices. Ditching XP now might just be less costly than you think.
8. Windows Vista Isn’t a ConcernIf you stuck with Windows XP to avoid Windows Vista, you don't need to worry. Windows 7 is not Windows Vista. It’s a high-quality operating system with several features you’ll like. Don’t lose sight of that.
9. The Competition Is Moving AwayAs a CIO, you need to think about the competitive landscape and what your company’s chief counterparts will do next. They’re likely thinking about deploying a new OS in their operation because of all the benefits new software offers over XP. The last thing you want to do is give them an advantage. And sticking with XP is doing just that.
10. It Future-Proofs YouThere’s no telling what the future holds. But if anything is certain, Microsoft is moving forward, and developers and accessory makers will move with it. By ditching Windows XP now, you can future-proof your business no matter what products come along.
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