If you are running a version of Windows that will soon be unsupported, you need to be aware that once an operating system is no longer supported there will be no further Microsoft Updates issued for that operating system. If you are running XP SP2, or running Vista with no Service Packs installed, be forewarned that those unpatched operating systems will soon become prime targets for malware infestations unless you take steps to bring them up to date by installing the required Service Pack for your system.
What Does End of Support Mean?
Support for Windows Vista without any service packs will end on April 13, 2010. To continue support, make sure you've installed Windows Vista SP2.
Support for Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2) will end on July 13, 2010. To continue support, make sure you've installed Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3).
IMPORTANT: The above mentioned Service Packs should only be installed on a malware free computer.
NOTE: 64 bit Windows XP SP2 will still receive security updates as there is no SP3 for 64 bit XP.
Support for Windows XP SP1 ended on October 10, 2006.
So, if you haven't updated to the latest available Service Pack for your operating system, DO IT NOW!
Jane Edwards, MS-MVP
Consumer Security 2006 - 2011
