Vista's end of life and what to do about it

MadmanRB

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This topic is targeted at Vista users mainly who may visit here only for Vista support.
On April 11, 2017 support for Vista will officially end meaning that there will be no more security updates, no more official support from Microsoft period and you will be left with a unsecure OS.
I highly doubt Vista will get the same lifeboat that XP has as XP is still unofficially supported.
So what will a vista user do, for me there are three answers I can give you who are not sure what to do next after vista stops being supported:

1: Try Linux

Now I know what you are going to say "What is Linux?"
Linux is a alternative operating system to windows and unlike buying a copy of windows again Linux is free to use and try.
Its tragic that the mainstream user doesnt know what it is but yes there is another OS out there that doesn't conform to Microsoft or apple.
The easiest Linux i can recommend that will be on par with vista in terms of interface is Linux Mint

https://www.linuxmint.com/

Its current incarnation is 18.1 and comes in two main flavors, MATE and Cinnamon plus there are other interfaces offered like KDE and XFCE.
All of these options seem confusing I know but each one of these choices offers something for someine.
KDE and Cinnamon are more for people who like a more modern look and feel while MATE and XFCE are more for older hardware.
If your Vista machine caan run its graphics then KDE and Cinnamon would be the best option

https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php

Now yes linux isnt compatible with cerain software but I know vista holdouts only use it as it has certain softwares they like that cant be found in later versions.
But the good news is that you can dual boot, still use Vista for some of your software and use linux for your browosing needs to remain secure in todays cyber crime filled market.


2: Go to windows 7

Now why would I put a windows solution under a linux one?
Well cost really, I know buying a new OS is pricey for some folks so with money on the line this is the second choice.
For the most part however if you can use vista you can use Windows 7, I know its interface is different but you have to learn some time a new interface if you buy another computer anyhow.
The biggest issue with & is getting a licence as it too isnt being fully supported by Microsoft anymore but 7 would be the next logical choice for a Vista user.

3: Go to windows 10

I am placing this option last as I know many have privacy concerns with Windows 10 but its also an option.
In terms of interface 10 will be a departure from Vista but since its Microsofts current obsession it would be easier to buy a licence for this over 7

4: Buy a new computer

Dead last is this option as yes buying a new PC isnt on the list for some users.
But you could get a preowned machine with perhaps something more up to date.
E bay is a good option for buying old computers that still work just be careful and it will be fine.

In any case this is a tough decision but the window of support for Vista will end soon
 
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The UI in Win7 isn't much different at all from Vista... I feel no pity for Vista users, they had a free upgrade chance to Win7 in a lot of cases if I am not mistaken.

As for those still on Vista, chances are if they didn't upgrade their computer to run Vista efficiently, it would be pointless to go to Win7, they would be better off buying a new desktop with Win10 pre-loaded on it.

Also, a LOT of software has officially ended support for Vista already, that includes support for Server 2008 sadly, even though that's still widely used.
 
Linux is perfectly viable to windows.
Plus its free

Maybe if you are browsing the web and a few small odds and ends. But wait till Typical Joe writes up a massive report for work, at home, saves it using the default file format, takes it into work and Office 201X can't open it because Joe saved it using a default file format native to Libre or OO.

Most people that will see this thread however will be in one of two groups, those that don't know anything about computers, and those that do. Those that do shouldn't need guidance, and those that don't know anything will just have to buy a new PC with Win10 on it and get over the "Data security" issue. If they are that worried about privacy, they need to disconnect from the interwebs.
 
Maybe if you are browsing the web and a few small odds and ends. But wait till Typical Joe writes up a massive report for work, at home, saves it using the default file format, takes it into work and Office 201X can't open it because Joe saved it using a default file format native to Libre or OO.

Most people that will see this thread however will be in one of two groups, those that don't know anything about computers, and those that do. Those that do shouldn't need guidance, and those that don't know anything will just have to buy a new PC with Win10 on it and get over the "Data security" issue. If they are that worried about privacy, they need to disconnect from the interwebs.

+1
I use both, but im a techy.. I dont know a single non-techy that would jump to linux, they wouldnt have a clue how!


vista to 7 or 10 is a good idea
 
7 would be the next logical choice for a Vista user.

vista to 7 or 10 is a good idea

I disagree. There is no reason to upgrade to Windows 7 anymore. Windows 7 is already outside of mainstream support. Windows 7 extended support (true EOL) is 2020. Why spend $ upgrading to Windows 7 for 3 years more support when Windows 10 is roughly the same cost?

Lifecycle fact sheet

Consumers that are still using Vista need to either check if they meet requirements using the Windows Anytime Upgrade tool to upgrade their current machine to Windows 10 or to buy a new computer with Windows 10.

I recommend buying a new Windows 10 machine. It will look nicer, run better, be more future-proof, and designed for Windows 10. Plus everyone loves new toys.
 
I like how you've disregarded Windows 8.1... I'd have done the same!

I can only recommend Linux/Windows really. Even my large company laptop builds have gone to Windows 10 now... (they went from XP, skipped Vista, moved to 7, skipped 8, now 10)

The OS works well and I haven't had any significant issues with it. It's what 8 should have been.
 
I disagree. There is no reason to upgrade to Windows 7 anymore. Windows 7 is already outside of mainstream support. Windows 7 extended support (true EOL) is 2020. Why spend $ upgrading to Windows 7 for 3 years more support when Windows 10 is roughly the same cost?

Lifecycle fact sheet

Consumers that are still using Vista need to either check if they meet requirements using the Windows Anytime Upgrade tool to upgrade their current machine to Windows 10 or to buy a new computer with Windows 10.

I recommend buying a new Windows 10 machine. It will look nicer, run better, be more future-proof, and designed for Windows 10. Plus everyone loves new toys.

This++++

Was going to post exactly that Win7 is ending support soon as well.
 
Well I only suggested 7 as a logical stepping stone for those afraid of new interfaces or the Linux option.
The interface of Windows 7 and Vista are near identical.
As for people buying new machines I understand that some people dont have the money for that thus why buying just the OS may be a good idea or giving Linux a try.
Those people who need Microsoft office can still get it for linux via WINE which is quite easy to install and use
 
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