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Cessation of support for Windows 98 and Windows Me
The Authority for Computation announces that starting July 2006 it will no longer support the operating systems: Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, and Windows Me. (Folowing Microsoft's simmilar announcement ).
Any computer connected to the network must maintain a standard level of security including system updates and an updated anti-virus.
With Microsoft retiring support for these products, these operating systems will be even more vulnerable to security risks, and customers will get blocked from the network if a security breach is detected on their computer.
Already now the lack of compatibility affects university users, for example:
- In some of the old computer, the anti-virus, MacAfee, for which the university bought licenses, drastically slows down the system.
- New additional services that the authority offers, such as Tango, are not fully operational on older systems.
Upgrading the operating system
Due to these and future difficulties, Microsoft (and us) recommend that customers who have Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, or Windows Me, upgrade to more advanced operating systems like Windows XP as soon as possible. The newer systems are user friendly, incorporate an improved security system, improved performance and other capabilities.
Please note, that in many cases, computers that now have Window 98 installed will not be compatible with XP, due to hardware requirements, and not always will an upgrading of the motherboard and/or memory will be economic.Please consult with a computer technician or computer coordinator before upgrading the computer and/or the operating system.
It's very important to backup all personal documents before the upgrade, see complete upgrade instructions in Microsoft's website.
Upgrading Office
Similarly to Windows 98, Office 97 is no longer supported (for awhile already) by Microsoft. In addition, Office 97 and earlier may cause problems when run on Windows XP, it is therefore recommended that clients upgrade to Office 2003. There is no need to upgrade Office 2000 and later.
It is important to backup personal documents before the upgrade from Office 97 to Office 2000 and later may cause changes in some files (mainly in tables, forms, and hierarchal lists).
Academic staff can buy licenses for upgrade in the Computer Authority's Microshop.
Protect your computer
After installing the operating systems and/ or Office, it is vital to ensure that the computer is well protected. Follow the instructions for security upgrades, anti-virus installation, dealing with advertising and spy-ware, choosing passwords and more.
Last updated:
27/07/2011
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