When software reaches ‘End of Life’
Even software has a use by date. So what should you do when software goes EOL?
With the constant cycle of updates and incremental new versions of our favourite software, it’s understandable that not every version can remain supported forever.
The process of putting a piece of software out to pasture is known as ‘End of Life’ or EOL and essentially means that the creator will no longer publish updates or release patches for that program.
Microsoft for example no longer support Internet Explorer version 8, 9 and 10 on Windows 7, 8.1 or 10. “No updates, no patches, no fixes”.
So what exactly does EOL mean?
No updates, no patches, no fixes, no new versions and no support options if things go wrong. From operating systems to browsers and all manner of applications it’s a fact that some software will no longer be supported or updated. It’s just not possible to span a finite amount of resources to look after the ever increasing versions of software.
As and when this happens to software that you are using, it basically means that YOU need to drop it as fast as you can. Malware is being delivered via your web browser regularly these days, security updates via patches, fixes and new versions stay on top of these threats, when this software is no longer supported, by continuing to use it, you are putting yourself at risk.
It’s important to stay as up to date with your updates as possible on your software.
What can you do?
Here are some basic tips on ensuring you’re using up to date software, and what you need to do when moving away from software that’s no longer supported:
- Always ensure you have a good up to date Internet Security product installed and working at its optimum level.
- Check your operating system (OS) and where possible make sure you’re using the latest OS possible.
- Before moving completely to a new application make sure you test everything to ensure there are no compatibility problems.
For more information on the Internet Security packages offered through Smart Protect, get in touch.
If you are in doubt, give Smart Computers a call, we’d be happy to help.
