Windows XP was, up until recently, Microsoft's greatest success as a desktop operating system. It is, however, time to retire Windows XP from the workplace network.
It's still a fine operating system, and will be around for many years to come on embedded devices and single-purpose workstations. My argument is that, due to its vulnerabilities as an internet-browsing platform (and especially internet searching), it's simply too much of a liability on the corporate LAN. If you have an employee who spends a regular amount of time on the internet (especially on Internet Explorer), it's time to consider putting a Windows 7 PC at their desk.
Our team of engineers spend quite a bit of time cleaning up workstations which have become infected. In the last quarter, every one of those infections (except for one) was on a Windows XP computer.
Why doesn't my anti-virus software protect me?
This is a common question I get asked. Because of the way modern infections work, and specifically, how they work with Internet Explorer, by the time you have clicked a malicious link, it's too late. As far as the anti-virus software is concerned, you are installing legitimate software downloaded from the internet. The current malware authors (primarily trying to steal credit card numbers by installing fake anti-virus software), use sophisticated techniques to stay one step ahead of all the major anti-virus companies. Think of it like this: your AV software updates itself with new definitions, but the hackers out there write a new version of their viruses every day. No one can keep up.
Why is Windows 7 so much better?
There are numerous technical reasons, but, for the most part, it boils down to the UAC (user account control) built into Windows Vista and Windows 7. Before anything can be installed or updated on one of these systems, the user is forced to click "yes or no" on a popup box. As much of an annoyance as this might be when you are getting a PC set up, it's worth the trouble when it keeps your PC from getting compromised.
What can I do to protect myself?
If it's not in your budget to replace a bunch of perfectly operational Windows XP computers, consider implementing OpenDNS . It's a great way to keep your users from accidentally getting to malicious internet sites. Also, instead of Internet Explorer, try using Google Chrome on your users' desktop. It's inherently more secure, as most internet exploits are written to be executed using Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Finally, use Google to search the internet, and be careful to only click on search results that are maked as safe with a green checkmark. This last measure requires you to use AVG's safe search feature (other anti-virus vendors have similar tools, and we will be glad to help you get your PCs set up properly).
Is now a good time to buy new PCs?
Actually, with the current economy, it's quite the buyer's market. Solid desktop PCs with Intel's newest processors can be had for under $500, and the laptop market is no different. Feel free to ask us about our recommendations for any type of computing device that you need (home, work, laptop, tablet).
Posted on February 10 2012 by Dallas Harmon