Windows XP Support Ends April 8, 2014

Between planning an upgrade, purchasing the licensing, and deploying the software, it can take 18-24 months to roll out a new operating system in a business environment. Since Microsoft support for Windows XP ends April 8, 2014, this is a good time to get started if you haven’t already.

As a reminder, when Microsoft no longer supports a product, neither do other software developers. If you’re waiting for Windows 8, the anticipated release date is October but you can still start your planning process now.

If you’re ready to proceed with an upgrade to Windows 7, you may find the free Microsoft Deployment Toolkit useful. It migrates your data in place during deployment and removes the need for disc imaging.

Some other tools from Microsoft to help make your move from Windows XP to Windows 7 easier include:

• Automating the Migration from Windows XP to Windows 7 End-to-End
• Migrating User Files and Settings from Windows XP to Windows 7
• Windows XP to Windows 7 Migration Guide
• Windows 7 Application Compatibility List for IT Professionals (No Longer Available)
• Video: Windows XP to Windows 7 Migration Using Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2010
• Video: Migrating from Windows XP to Windows 7 Using the User State Migration Tool (USMT)
• Windows 7 Installation, Setup, and Deployment forum