Windows XP is the operating system that we have come to use.  It has been the cornerstone of most small businesses for years.  So why have Microsoft pulled the plug.  Well, they haven’t.  All Microsoft products have a lifecycle and XP has reached the end of its lifecycle, so this is no surprise and not some elaborate Microsoft plan (which some claim ).

Things you need to be aware of and should consider before opting for those downgrade rights:

The Mainstream support phase of Windows XP has now ended as of April 2009 the extended support phase Microsoft has said will run until 2014.  The extended support phase will only provide free security updates to machines on the latest service packs.  Any bugs found or problems encountered, that have to be remedied in order for you to continue working, will be charged per incident per computer by Microsoft if your local IT services provider cannot find a work around or solution

As with the last, and more than likely all future versions of Windows when mainstream support ends there is a increase in security threats and virus activity directly linked to the operating system as this is seen as a golden opportunity to breach networks and use systems that are being protected but now, not with the same support hierarchy

Windows Vista has come in for some harsh criticism over the last few months but most have had no real problems except for a change in look and feel.  Almost everything is easier to use and install and once the deployment plan is done for your network, and you have committed to moving forward and all tests have been completed, the change over should go smoothly.  The deployment into corporate networks does require more time, planning and scoping out than actually implementing, so as long as you are confident that you have it right it should be a walk in the park

We have heard a few of our clients talking about Windows 7 and that they may just hold on and move to this and miss Windows Vista altogether.  As a consultancy we understand that some cannot justify the cost of moving to a new operating system when Microsoft is already developing the replacement.  Windows 7 is still in development and Beta testing is still happening so this is not going to be appearing until at least mid 2010.  Since Windows 7 has the same foundation and hardware requirements(currently) as Windows Vista upgrading from Vista to Windows 7 will prove to be easier then moving to from XP to Windows 7.

Windows Vista, with the correct hardware is very efficient and makes life a lot less congested and this leads to better productivity in the work place.

We recommend to all our clients to consider and plan for the move to Windows Vista and we can offer through Microsoft free upgrade rights to Windows 7 when it becomes available so you don’t have to think about doing the job twice.  This can lead to an impressive saving of up to 40% per pc.