[AccessD] Future of Windows XP

Hi Brad,
I wouldn't worry a lot about WinXP not being supported. Just make sure you
have good entry and end point security in your business. Eliminate any
internet use where not absolutely needed. Where needed, quite using IE8 and
move users to Firefox or Chrome. If possible only access the internet via a
virtual machine on the PC.

Windows 7/8 both require more RAM than XP. While I have upgraded older XP
PCs to Windows 7, it is rarely a long term, cost effective thing to do. I
suggest a budgeted migration to new PCs over a sustainable period of time.
Replace the computers for those who use them the most rather than by
position or seniority. (Never goes over to well ego-wise but makes the most
sense business-wise.) Start with the tech savvy users who will learn the
differences and help others when they get their new one.

The standard business computers I work with are:
Dell OptiPlex 3010  - Intel Core i5 i5-3470 3.20 GHz - Small Form Factor - 4
GB RAM - 500 GB HDD - DVD-Writer - Intel HD 2500 Graphics - Genuine Windows
7 Professional 64-bit w/3yr NBD warranty. Right now I'm paying less than
$550 per unit. You can ramp up a bit to the next level of OptiPlex for a
couple hundred bucks but this seems to be the best price/performance and
suits my customers well. I have never had an issue with an OptiPlex. They're
like the tanks of the PC world.

I would strongly suggest thoroughly testing the applications on Windows 7/8
(whichever you decide to move to in the future). Since you have purchased
applications, I would refer you to the publisher as to whether or not they
are compatible. In house A2007 should be if they are Access only. But I
would personally test every aspect of them to be sure. You're going to have
to move to a new version eventually so this will give you insights as to
what needs to be changed if anything. Worst case is you run your apps in a
virtual XP machine within Windows 7/8.

HTH
John B

-----Original Message-----
From: accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com
[mailto:accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com] On Behalf Of Brad Marks
Sent: Monday, August 19, 2013 2:08 PM
To: Access Developers discussion and problem solving
Subject: [AccessD] Future of Windows XP

All,

I work part time for a small manufacturing firm (about 50 employees) with a
very limited IT budget.

Currently there are about 20 older PCs running Windows XP (SP3).  There are
two purchased application systems and a number of Access 2007 applications.

It is my understanding that Microsoft is dropping all support (including
security updates) for XP in April of 2014.

My background is primarily in application development and database
administration.  In the past, I have relied on fellow employees for
"Operating System issues".

I have some dumb questions.

How serious is the issue of Microsoft dropping all support for XP next
April?

What are most firms migrating to?  Win-7?  Win-8?

I would guess that either Win-7 or Win-8 will need more horsepower than XP
and neither will run very well on older PCs.  True?

Will Access 2007 applications run Okay with either Win-7 or Win-8?

Thanks,
Brad

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