On January 14, 2020, Windows 7 lost Microsoft support, meaning Windows 7 devices are currently exposed to major security vulnerabilities. In a recent announcement, Microsoft has released Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 7 devices.

Starting immediately, Accellis can extend Windows 7 support for a full year, providing businesses much needed time to properly plan workstation replacement. With a worldwide processor and IT services shortage, this news couldn’t come at a better time.

For protection, businesses should immediately consider the Windows 7 Pro 1-year Support ESU (Extended Security Update) license for $61/device/year, and Accellis will install it for free. The Extended Security Update from Microsoft will allow un-supported Windows 7 devices to continue to receive critical security updates.

A few prerequisites:

First, businesses will be required to replace the devices sometime next year;  Accellis offers a plan to properly spread out replacements through Q2-Q4 2020. Second, Windows 7 devices must be a Pro or Enterprise OS (not Home OS).

Server 2008, SQL 2008, and Exchange 2010 still needed to be replaced by January 14, 2020. Businesses can receive three years of free extended support for Server 2008 & SQL 2008 by migrating to Azure. Exchange 2010 should be migrated to Office 365 immediately.

Finally, extended support for your operating systems is never a replacement for a good security plan. Ask our cybersecurity team how Accellis works to build an ongoing cybersecurity strategy for 2020 and beyond. Email Accellis’ Director of Cybersecurity, Tom Fazio, at tfazio@accellis.com with cybersecurity questions.