What Does this mean..? Microsoft have issued an end of life on the Windows 95 & 98 products
only. This means that Microsoft are no longer selling nor supporting the
Windows 95/98 product as of January 2004. Microsoft have produced a better version
called Windows XP which is a current operating system. It is no longer
viable for Microsoft to support Window 98 as it is no longer
compatible with today's technology.
:: Microsoft Announcement
How does this affect me..?
Substantially. Although Windows 98 will continue running as it has before
you will experience problems when trying to connect new technology as
drivers will only be available for current operating systems like Windows
XP.
The major setback for Windows 98 users will be when requiring support from
either Microsoft or help desks for their own in house software programs.
The first question help desks always ask is 'what operating system are you
on'. If you are on Windows 98, the help desk staff will ask you to upgrade
before trying to assist you with your problem. There is a very good reason
for this even though it may be infuriating. If help desks had to keep and
support each and every version of operating system they would go out of
business. Therefore, all companies and help desks always insist that you
are on the current operating system as well as all currently available
technology.
How do we get current and stay current..?
Having computers in your business is like owning a car. You would never
think of not insuring or maintaining your car. The same applies to your
computer's in your business. They control your livelihood and as such they
should be maintained and looked after the same as your vehicles. After
all, if you crash your car, you can repair it, or buy another one... if
your computer system crashes, its a little more serious to get all your
information back.
There are three aspects of getting a system current and keeping it
current.
1. The Operating System
Always upgrade to the latest operating system
available. This keeps your running costs down as your upgrade is
a gradual process instead of a major hit when it has to
be done.
2. Security Patches
If you are on a current
Operating System, you will have access to
Microsoft's software update feature which is imperative. There
are so many security flaws and holes that Microsoft issues
monthly patches which your computer requires in order to run
correctly and not be tampered or hacked. With our
Support Agreements, we do all
the updating for you automatically as part of the service.
3. The Hardware
Make sure you hardware is
current technology. A good example of this is backup technology.
Many people still use the old tape streamers of yesteryear,
although they still keep churning away, when was the last time
you had to actually restore from one of them. That's when you
find out how good your trusty old tape streamer was.
How do we move forward and get ourselves current..? Retail Automation should be your primary point of contact. We will
recommend the most cost effective path to
get you current and running smoothly. We also have incredible
deals on upgrading your software and hardware. We are here to
lower your cost of ownership. Don't procrastinate, it will only increase
in cost. Complete our 'Get Current Request' below and lets get moving.
