Millions of computers from around the world still run on Windows XP. But Microsoft says it is withdrawing all support and security updates for computers using Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows 2000 operating systems.
With all those cyber gangs controlling the botnets that steal data and hijack online back accounts, infected corporate PCs are high in demand. This decision by Microsoft raises the risk profile of all those corporate networks who continue to use these operating systems.
According to a Qualys estimate, about 50% of Windows XP machines used by businesses are SP2 machines. Qualys is the company that takes care of computer upgrades for more than 4,000 private and government owned organizations worldwide.
The deadline given by the software giant is July 13th. Experts opine that this could mean that all those machines become susceptible to attacks from malicious software.
However, upgrading to the latest service pack is not easy for most organizations, especially for companies that have their computers all over the world and thus not easily accessible.
Fortunately, it is said that most home-based customers in the United States use Service Pack 3, as they usually enable Windows auto update, which upgrades automatically. So basically, it is the companies that will be affected.
Microsoft is not willing to give an estimate of how many Windows XP SP2 and Windows 2000 PCs are still being used globally; but recommends that customers either buy the new Windows 7 PCs or Windows XP users install Service Pack 3.
Tags: Microsoft, Windows XP
