Computers running Windows 7 and below are considered unsafe to use online, that includes Windows Vista and XP. The same applies to Apple computers running High Sierra or earlier. But these computers may work perfectly fine so why are they dangerous to use?
If we go back to the start of how a new operating system is born, the software is initially written by a team of hundreds or even thousands of programmers, writing millions of lines or programming code. They work for years on prototypes, release these for testing and then re-write the code time and time again to improve it. When the operating system is deemed ready it is released for us to buy and install.
The software development doesn’t stop there, the team of software programmers continue to listen to feedback and write modifications and improvements. Sometimes problems are found with the code and these are known as bugs. Bugs can easily be fixed by re-writing the bit of faulty code and then released as an ‘update’; you will certainly have seen updates installing every now-and-then.
Sometimes these software bugs can affect your computer’s security. A bug might allow a hacker to gain information about you or take control of your computer. Once this security bug is identified, the team of software programmers will release an update to fix the problem, known as a ‘patch’, and your computer will be safe again.
When an operating system or app reaches the end of its maintenance life the company who built it will stop spending money on the software programming team, and they will be moved into new projects. Any new bugs or security holes will remain un-fixed and that is when the danger starts. When a product is retired like this we call it ‘End of Life’ or EOL.
Windows 7 has been EOL since January 2020 and in the 22 months since there have been a few major security holes found that remain unfixed. Running good antivirus software can help but in most cases the best option is to upgrade or replace your computer.
Furthermore, using older OSes can be a big security issue when using online services, such as banking or other secure services. I’ve heard rumours that banks could refuse to pay-out against scams if users are found to be using an unsafe operating system, so if you have Windows 7 or Vista or XP, or Apple MacOS High Sierra or earlier then you really should upgrade asap.