Microsoft has confirmed that they will be ending mainstream support for Windows XP and Office 2003 on April 14. The end of mainstream support means that Microsoft will no longer provide bug fixes or service packs for these products. Microsoft will continue to provide security updates through the year 2014, but only if Microsoft deems the flaw to be critical. Windows Server 2003, which is the basis of many company networks, is also approaching the end of mainstream support in Microsoft’s software lifecycle.
Microsoft plans to launch the next version of Windows (named Windows 7 while in beta) in early 2010. Windows Server 2008 was released last year.
Where does this move leave small businesses that run Microsoft Software? There are two choices: budget for licensing upgrade fees for Microsoft Office or consider Microsoft alternatives. Network Velocity is recommending every client give Google Apps serious consideration. Google Apps is now a viable alternative to Microsoft Office for small to medium sized businesses.
For more information on how the end of support for Microsoft products may affect your business or to learn about Google Apps as an alternative please contact us at 858-270-3595.
