Support for Windows XP to Cease

After April 8, Microsoft will no longer support the Windows XP operating system. The company will not provide hot fixes, product updates or security patches, and there will no longer be any paid or unpaid assisted support or online technical help.

Any Windows XP machine connected to the UC Merced network after this date represents a security risk to every machine connected to the network.

In an effort to be more transparent and predictable, Microsoft created a policy to support its software for a minimum of 10 years (five years mainstream support, five years extended support). But the 10 years have expired.

According to a study done by Gartner Research, in addition to Microsoft, most independent software companies won’t be updating XP programs, and most PC hardware manufacturers will stop supporting Windows XP on the majority of their models.

If you use Windows XP, IT suggests you upgrade immediately. Failing to upgrade can lead to a security risk to the network and your personal files, which could result in your computer failing to function properly.

The good news is that XP users with university-owned systems do not have to tackle this upgrade on their own.

UC Merced IT is interested in partnering with staff and faculty members and researchers who are still using Windows XP to find appropriate solutions to ensure smooth, successful transitions.

To begin the consulting process, or to request assistance on upgrading your computer to Windows 7 or 8.1, please contact the IT Help Desk either by email or by calling 209-228-4357.

If you have Windows XP on a personal computer system, IT has provided some links to useful resources on its website.

Please note: Office 2003 will also no longer be supported by Microsoft after April 8. For assistance with upgrading Office to a newer version on a university-owned computer, please contact the IT Help Desk.