Microsoft Windows 7 Support Ends Jan. 14 – Upgrade to Windows 10

By Lisa Stage
Dec. 12, 2019
To: Faculty, Staff, DCCs, and Students Using Windows Computers
From: University Information Technology Services
Subject: Microsoft Windows 7 Support Ends Jan. 14 – Upgrade to Windows 10
Date: Dec 12, 2019

Microsoft is ending support for the Windows 7 operating system Tuesday, January 14. They will no longer provide new security updates, software updates, or technical support.

IMPACTS TO YOU

  • Malware and viruses: After January 14, Windows 7 computers will be more susceptible to attack. Although antivirus software will continue to prevent some malicious activity, Microsoft's security updates provide an essential line of defense.
  • Software and devices not working: Application and hardware manufacturers will continue to upgrade for more recent versions of Windows. Over time, Windows 7 machines will not be able to run new/upgraded apps or peripheral devices.

CAMPUS POLICY

Campus policy requires that devices connected to the network run software with security patches installed. After January 14, computers running Windows 7 will no longer be in compliance and vulnerable.

A compromised computer that is negatively impacting the campus network may be blocked from the network to protect other users. [UA Information Security Policy (ISO-100) and UA Minimum Security for Networked Devices (IS-S602)]

UNIVERSITY-OWNED MACHINES

Your departmental IT staff should ensure any University-owned desktop or laptop computers (workspace, classroom, computer lab) are upgraded to Windows 10. These Windows 10 licenses are covered under the University's Microsoft Campus Agreement.

PERSONALLY OWNED MACHINES

Install Windows 10: If your home desktop and/or laptop is running Windows 7, upgrade to Windows 10 in order to receive regular security updates that will protect both your computer and anyone you connect to on the internet from malicious attacks.

Faculty/Staff

Purchase Windows 10 OS and install it. You can search online to find discounts below full price.

If you need assistance installing your new OS, the 24/7 IT Support Center can help:

Students

You are eligible for one free download of Windows 10 for Education.

QUESTIONS AND SUPPORT

If you have questions about or need help with a University-owned machine, please check with your department's IT support staff.

For personally owned computers, contact the 24/7 IT Support Center, (520) 626-TECH (8324).

INFORMATION RESOURCES

Which Version of Windows Am I Running?
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/13443/windows-which-version-am-i-running

Can My Computer Run Windows 10?
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-specifications

Microsoft Windows 7 End Announcement
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4057281/windows-7-support-will-end-on-january-14-2020

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