- The support sunset means any device running the XP operating system will no longer receive security patches to protect the device from viruses, spyware and other malicious software; technical support from Microsoft or software and content updates.
- As many as 23 percent of healthcare organizations currently use Windows XP, according to Forrester.
- The main concern following the support sunset is security. Windows XP was already relatively vulnerable to hackers: “If there’s one core reason we’re retiring the operating systems, it’s security issues,” Microsoft spokesman Tom Murphy told The Wall Street Journal. The lack of XP-specific security patches going forward will make devices running the OS increasingly at risk.
- Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 7 or 8. Some hospitals have found desktop virtualization makes this process easier.
- Even if a provider is not using XP on computers, it’s likely some medical devices are using the operating system.
- Gartner fellow Neil MacDonald recommends checking with the device manufacturer; there are two versions of XP for embedded systems like those found in medical devices, and one version will receive support until 2016.
More Articles on Windows XP:
Windows XP Support Sunsetting: Preparing for April 8
Upgrade From Windows XP to Remain HIPAA-Compliant
The Top 10 Game Changers in Hospital IT
