What is end of life software?
End of Life (EOL) is a term used to describe computer software that has reached the end of its life cycle. Meaning, there will no longer be marketing, sustaining and (in most cases), selling of the product in question. So, you know those annoying popups on your computer asking you to upgrade to the latest version of whatever? Those are messages notifying you of EOL software on your computer. If you’re like me, and most other people, you just click “Ignore” and carry on living your life. So, you probably wondering, what’s the problem with that? Well, as it turns out, not upgrading your software could have major implications for your business.
What are the risks?
Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support and, more importantly, they will not provide updates to the operating system. There’ll be no more automatic updates or patches. If security vulnerabilities are discovered, they aren’t fixed, leaving your computer and network a prime target for cybercriminals to perform cyber attacks and install ransomware.
Who is being targeted?
Any desktops that use the following list of EOL software are being targeted. Upon retirement or end of support, there’ll be no new security updates, non-security updates, free or paid assisted support options or online technical content updates.
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What are the solutions to EOL software?
Ensuring your business has patch management in place. Patch management is the process that repairs vulnerabilities and fixes bugs or security flaws. It also enhances application features performance. It’s imperative that businesses have patch management automated in order to remain up to date with the most recent patch releases from the application software vendors. IronTree offers automated patch management as a feature of its new Version 2 cyber security solution, giving you and your company peace of mind that you’re IronTree protected. The platform also offers backup (as a 2-in-1 solution) and both are managed from a single console.
The other option is to host your entire IT infrastructure on a virtual private server (VPS) in the IronTree cloud. This virtualised environment is accessible with internet connectivity via your dedicated private network. A virtual private server has automated patch management and multiple layers of protection against malware attacks, and is therefore a much more secure setup than a local server housed in a cabinet in your office. Gone are the days when you have to rely on legacy machines and server infrastructure stationed inside your office.
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