Windows 7 users have just a few days left before the operating system becomes obsolete.

Microsoft’s official support for the old Windows 7 system ends on January 14., After that date, PC owners running the desktop operating system will find themselves at an increased risk of being hit with malware.

Microsoft will no longer be actively rolling-out updates or patches for Windows 7, so any glitches that are causing problems with your PC, incompatibility issues with other hardware in your home, or dangerous malware released by cybercriminals to steal your credit card details will not be fixed.

Despite it being labelled in many places as “Windows 7 end of life,” it doesn’t mean the system becomes unusable or simply expires.

Problems can arise because Microsoift will no longer issue software and security patches – exposing your computer to vulnerability and spammers.

According to NetMarketShare, an online web analytics company that measures internet traffic to monitor the technology used by consumers worldwide, around 26 per cent of PC users were still operating Windows 7 as 2020 dawned.

A spokesman for Microsoft said: “Microsoft made a commitment to provide 10 years of product support for Windows 7 when it was released on October 22, 2009.

“The specific end of support day for Windows 7 will be January 14, 2020. After that, technical assistance and software updates from Windows Update that help protect your PC will no longer be available for the product.

“Microsoft strongly recommends that you move to Windows 10 sometime before January 2020 to avoid a situation where you need service or support that is no longer available.”

“When this 10-year period ends, Microsoft will discontinue Windows 7 support so that we can focus our investment on supporting newer technologies and great new experiences.”

If you are still, operating Windows 7 and need advice, please call UK Business IT  on 01782 264455.