Businesses beware: from April 8th, Microsoft will be ending support for its flagship Windows XP and Office 2003 products.
This means that automatic updates such as software updates, security patches as well as technical support (both via phone and online) will all cease.
Businesses and consumers who are still using the platform should upgrade to a modern operating system before support ceases, or they run the risk of encountering security threats and data protection issues.
Microsoft users should note that most Microsoft software is supported for 10 years after its release, and support for Windows XP has already been provided for 12 years.
Fun fact: The default desktop wallpaper of Windows XP named ‘Bliss’ has become an instantly recognisable image to many. The photographer, Charles O’Rear formally worked for National Geographic and claims it has not digitally enhanced or manipulated in any way. It was taken in June 1996 on the side of a highway in Sonoma, California.