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General => Technical Help => Topic started by: Calverley Lad on Friday 14 March 14 09:15 GMT (UK)
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The last security update has just been issued, together with a formal notice that all support is to be withdrawn on 8th April 2014.
Brian
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But see Tomkin's post of a short while ago:
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=677384.msg5222788#msg5222788
Gadget
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Hang on a mo! ;D
Just because XP isn't being supported, doesn't mean it's dead!
You can continue to use XP for as long as you like - it's just that there's no more annoying upgrades?!
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Just because XP isn't being supported, doesn't mean it's dead!
I would agree. Some people have attempted to cash in on this by inferring that computers running XP will basically be useless after the cut off date. IF you use a good anti virus product and a good firewall you should be reasonably safe until such times as you really need to upgrade your hardware.
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Google chrome is continuing to support xp until 2015
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I would agree. Some people have attempted to cash in on this by inferring that computers running XP will basically be useless after the cut off date. IF you use a good anti virus product and a good firewall you should be reasonably safe until such times as you really need to upgrade your hardware.
This is exactly what I have been told by my 'computer man'. I telephoned him for advice and information about how to find a machine using Windows 7, as I was concerned I would not be secure using XP once Microsoft cut off date came. He said that providing I had good virus protection, such as Norton etc I should not be at risk. He said that most of the major virus protection companies were still going to support XP, and it was scaremongering and attempts by some to convince people to buy new computers.
However, my machine is 'old' (32bit I think as well) and does not perform as well as it should and it is so very slow (despite attempts to speed it up) and I know it is nothing to do with broadband speed where I live. In fact I have suspected for a while that it is probably on 'its last legs'. - but I do so hate change - especially to do with tech. stuff. SO I have ordered a new desktop with Windows 7.1. I did this through my computer man as it is ll possible if you are a business to still be able to buy this Version (was also told this by PC World when I asked if they could supply me with a computer using 7.) RIP windows XP reluctantly from me.
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I did this through my computer man as it is ll possible if you are a business to still be able to buy this Version (was also told this by PC World when I asked if they could supply me with a computer using 7.)
You don't have to be a business to purchase a Windows 7 PC still, although PC World haven't sold them for some time. Some of the online retailers still have them, ebuyer.com being an example and their non-business website (there's a separate one for businesses) still have laptops and desktops supplied with Windows7 (usually with a licence for an update to Windows 8 included). They won't be as cheap as some of the Windows 8 PCs but they are still available. ;)
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Hi
Whatever you do don't throw away the kit running XP.
If all else fails you can always load a linux-type operating system on it.
I have now very successfully loaded Ubuntu and Mint on a couple of Dell laptops and they work superbly.
The laptops run faster because they do not have the overhead of all the stuff loaded by windows.
Ubuntu & Mint are FREE (as are others) and took 15 mins to setup
Firefox (web browser) is FREE (and some of us heve been running it on windows, so "no chage")
Thunderbird (mail browser) is FREE (same windows comment)
Libre (office) is FREE (as are others, and same windows comment)
so, there are your basics, ALL FREE.
Haven't got around yet to see what's available for my genealogy, my knitting patterns or my cupcakes. :-D
Rootschat has some experienced "linux" users, may be they can be persuaded to list what works for them?
Ray
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I had a good look at Windows 8 machines on Saturday at a 'retail outlet' (husband's XP is on it's last legs [creaking!]) We went through a list of the software that he uses and all work. He lets me do the genealogy and I use Family Historian (on my 7 Prof OS )which does run on 8.
Gadget
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Gadget - My Windows Vista laptop gave up the ghost, so I had to get a new one. I couldn't afford the Windows 7, they were so much more expensive than Windows 8, but when we went to PCWorld, just to get a feel of the things, the staff there didn't know anything, they couldn't tell me what programs would work - apart from the type of things that the youngsters use - so in the end I e-mailed the help desks of the programs I use, like Legacy for family tree and everyone said their programs were compatible with Windows 8.
In the end I bought my laptop on line from John Lewis. I've got used to Windows 8 now, but only because I've altered it to suit me and got rid of most of the apps, which update themselves regularly using up my user time (can't remember the word I need - old age!!).
Lizzie
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Quick query ~
Are any of those with XP having masses of updates at the moment. Second day that Mr G has muttered as he's gone out of the door 'Computer's doing updates, can you keep your eye on it'
Gadget
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8 updates for XP received last week.
Brian
Including those below:
Windows XP Security Update for Windows XP (KB2929961) 14 March 2014 Automatic Updates
Windows XP Windows XP End of Support Notification (KB2934207) 14 March 2014 Automatic Updates
Windows XP Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - March 2014 (KB890830) 14 March 2014 Microsoft Update
Windows XP Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer 8 for Windows XP (KB2925418) 14 March 2014 Microsoft Update
Windows XP Security Update for Windows XP (KB2929961) 14 March 2014 Microsoft Update
Windows XP Security Update for Windows XP (KB2930275) 14 March 2014 Microsoft Update
Windows XP Windows XP End of Support Notification (KB2934207) 14 March 2014 Microsoft Update
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Looks as if they're having a closing down sale ::)
I think I'll advise him to stick with XP but keep av and fw up to date and select a new machine when his falls to bits :)
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It appears that in America Microsoft is offering XP users $50 to buy a Windows 8 or 8.1 lap-top or pad. Offers remains open until 30 April 2014. I am not aware of this happening here.
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Windows XP computers will still work, anti-virus support will continue, and (hopefully) virus creators will move on to do their nasty work on newer PCs and leave XP users alone!
Microsoft will continue to issue patches for high-level vulnerabilities through “Custom Support,” a program designed for large organizations (Not individuals, sadly). It will cost about $200 per device per year, plus extra charges for some of the important patches.
For others, Microsoft is offering a $100 discount to upgrade to a new Windows 8 machine. More at: http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/microsoft-will-pay-100-upgrade-xp/#ixzz2wm9zTx00
Or do yourself a favor and switch to Mac:)
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My local computer shop charges £150 for an update to Windows 7/8. Since my computer is about 10 years old, I don't know whether I'd be throwing money away, if it died sometime afterwards.
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Likewise, the cost of upgrading an existing XP computer is 'silly money'.
Current desktop purchased 2003 cost (including flatscreen monitor and MS Office) just 2000 pounds. :o
New desktop base machine @300pounds plus software costs.
[Desktop machine going upstairs for non internet use, using for general office work]
Leaving me to use a 12month old windows 7 laptop.
Brian
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My local computer shop charges £150 for an update to Windows 7/8. Since my computer is about 10 years old, I don't know whether I'd be throwing money away, if it died sometime afterwards.
Save your money.
Make sure your anti virus and firewall are kept up to date - an old computer running XP is quite likely to struggle under Windows 7 unless upgraded and will definitely have problems with Windows 8.
Changing from XP to either 7 or 8 will also likely require new hardware - not all manufacturers brought out drivers for printers and scanners etc hoping to force consumers to upgrade that equipment as well.
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Yes, of course - I was forgetting things like printers etc and my printer doesn't work that well now anyway! I think if I just go for an upgrade I'll be throwing money away. I might as well purchase a brand new machine.
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I am probably going to continue to use my 10 year old Sony running XP until it gives up the ghost or gets malware problems. I might be tempted to get a new PC if this one gets any slower although I know its still faster than some peoples! I certainly wouldn't consider updating present one.
I have good security and don't browse or download anything much really. I have all my stuff backed up and have a two year old laptop which gets me to places the old one won't go! But I would not like to be without a desktop machine.
Got more used to Windows 7 and now getting to grips with son's Windows 8 but so loved XP!!
Selina
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Yes, of course - I was forgetting things like printers etc and my printer doesn't work that well now anyway! I think if I just go for an upgrade I'll be throwing money away. I might as well purchase a brand new machine.
How true! My Lexmark printer (6 year sold) broke last month and needs a new print-head - these cost £36!
So I bought a new printer for £39!! ;D
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£39? bargain!
I've just spent a couple of hours researching tablets, laptops and the like on the web and I'm just as confused as ever. Brain aches now, so much, I'll have to go and lie down. :P :P
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So much for a bargain?
Comes with ink tanks 1/2 full (as do most inkjet printers), inks cost more than printer. :o
Brian
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Hi,
Try Amazon for your ink cartridges, I got genuine HP346 inks, £37.99 in Currys for £21.
Quite a saving.
Tom
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Cartridgeworld is also quite good.
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Hi Ann,
I haven't used Cartridgeworld before but they look like compatible cartridges rather than genuine cartridges. Obviously they work OK with your printer.
Tom
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Why not look at your local supermarket prices for compatible inks?
The big hitters all sell printer inks.
As**,Tes**,Sain***** and Morr*****.
Had no problems with inks supplied by above.
Brian
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Hi Ann,
I haven't used Cartridgeworld before but they look like compatible cartridges rather than genuine cartridges. Obviously they work OK with your printer. Tom
I have a HP deskjet printer and have used these cartridges for some time. No problems with them at all. I think the only thing is that occassionally a message will come up saying ink is low 'when it actually isn't' it is just because it is not the 'pucka' one.
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Just confirming there is to be a final update on 'download tuesday' for XP. :(
[Even a service pack download for 8.1]
Not the slightest bit interested in 8. :)
Brian
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Got my new computer this week. Managed to get Windows 7 by buying through my source, and he also set it all up and transf. all my old stuff over.
Obviously have got to give it a chance, but oh I do wish I could have had XP. Unfortunately I needed to get a new computer and was not an option.
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If you want to run XP and have a degree of safety from Viruses and other Malware then I think the answer is to download a Virtual Machine like VMWare or Virtual Box. If the XP machine becomes infected then you can just delete it and start afresh.
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My 'old' machine is now in bits and pieces having been dismantled. Any ideas of how to smash the hard drive.
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My 'old' machine is now in bits and pieces having been dismantled. Any ideas of how to smash the hard drive.
A hammer should do the job. ;D ;D Aim for the middle where the controller head should be as that is what allows access to the data. Although probably best to give it a wack in a number of places.
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A hammer should do the job. ;D ;D Aim for the middle where the controller head should be as that is what allows access to the data. Although probably best to give it a wack in a number of places.
. . . and then drop it onto concrete a few times for luck. That will defeat most attempts to read anything substantial on its own.
Alan
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Just downloaded the security updates for XP.
Brian
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"Any ideas of how to smash the hard drive."
I burn my old drives. (I have a forge)
We have a SEPA waste disposal site beside us. It's run by the council. It is really amazing to see the amount of computers which are put in for disposal, still with the hard drives in them. Most of them get sent to Africa for breaking up. Some people do not think.
Years ago, I bought a second hand computer. On it was files relating to bomb disposal operations. The previous owner was from the military.
Regards
Malky
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"Any ideas of how to smash the hard drive."
Years ago, I bought a second hand computer. On it was files relating to bomb disposal operations. The previous owner was from the military.
Regards
Malky
[/quote
Potentially useful?
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I've recently erased Win XP from over 20 machines at work. They were about 8 years old and ran very slowly. I installed Linux Mint 13 (with the lightweight XFCE window manager) which is a long term supported version until 2017. We now have 20+ perfectly usable office machines that are good for another 3 years at least and they positively fly with next-to-no-risk of viruses or other malware.
If you can live with one of the Linux-usable family history programs (Gramps, Webtrees, GenealogyJ for example), Mint will do most everything else e.g image manipulation, office programs, printing/scanning, web browsing, email etc etc.
http://www.linuxmint.com/
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And don't forget that if you are really stuck with a Linux machine and compatability with Windows Programs you can download and instal "Wine" which enables many but not all windows programs to work satisfactorily with Linux.
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I installed Linux Mint 13
Another enlightened user ! :)
GRAHAM
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I installed Linux Mint 13
Another enlightened user ! :)
GRAHAM
Except Graham that I did not say that. See my post immediately above. It referred to wine! I use Ubuntu.
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I installed Linux Mint 13
Another enlightened user ! :)
GRAHAM
Except Graham that I did not say that. See my post immediately above. It referred to wine! I use Ubuntu.
... and I bet you don't use Enlightenment, even if you are enlightened :D
I've never had much success with Wine or virtual boxes and I think it would be way too much hassle for the average Windows user (and I don't mean that disparagingly).
Paul
(I use Mint, Debian, Fedora and Puppy myself but I've tried almost every *nix known to mankind)
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On average I am about 30 years in advance of my time (With all due modesty!)
More seriously there is the hypervisor supplied in Windows 8 and 8.1 which is supposedly a ready means of running a virtual machine (XP or whatever) though I have never yet made it work.
Wine is a very mixed bag, and its suppliers admit this, it works fine with Gramps etc. but it has never been satisfactory with Legacy (for me at any rate)
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All computer users should realise that Microsoft is just trying to increase it's already gigantic profits, and quite probably many hardware sales-merchants are trying to cash in too.
Everyone should realise that some enthusiasts are still using computers running Windows 2K !!!!
XP will not die quickly, and it is probably the best operating system that Microsoft has produced, and that is not saying much. Vista was a disaster, Win 7 still inferior to XP, and Win 8 in the middle.
Certain points should be known:
(a) Computers don't just get slower. What happens is (i) too many programs get held in a 'ready' state, so that they chew up computer hardware time without doing anything. Including a lot of utterly stupid programs like games, and lots of completely unnecessary bells and whistles. (ii) the hard disc files become 'fragmented', that means all the files are broken up into little bits chained together, and the poor hard disc spends ages 'seeking' the bits. (iii) the thing called the 'registery' gets so knotted up it takes ages for the OS to find anything. (iv) etc, etc, etc. Most problems are software problems, hardware problems do occur, but are relatively infrequent.
(b) The solution to this is to get a program which unravelles the mess, OR re-load the operating system. That is not as difficult as it sounds, BUT you MUST have the original CD from which the OS came, and have the long, apparently meaningless 'Key' which unlocks everything. (25 digits or so). When you bought your computer, you bought that too, and you should have got it, but some hardware merchants hang on to it. Keep it in a safe place. Making one copy for archival purposes is permitted.
(c) New computers, new hardware that is, are faster, but almost always the raw speed isn't needed. It's the craze for games, HD videos on line in real-time, etc, etc, which is driving it, not the needs of family history.
So my prescription for the immediate future of XP is:
(d) Keep using it.
(e) Check the update status of your OS CD mentioned above, and make sure you have downloaded any service packs needed (ie perhaps SP3 if your CD has only to SP2 printed on it.) Microsoft will probably (I hope) issue a "roll-up" service pack eventually, they did for Windows 2K years ago.
(f) As has already been suggested, immediately download the Mozilla Firefox browser. It's FREE, and far better than Internit Exploder. Far more secure, Internit Exploder was always being patched for security reasons. Download the e-mail program Mozilla Thunderbird as well, same reason. Almost all of the computer literati, when circumstances force them to use Windows, use these programs, or something similar, instead of Microsoft's offerings.
(g) Dump Norton as soon as possible. Norton is in bed with Microsoft, and therefore not to be trusted into the future. I personally use AVG, find it very satisfactory. Their current offering includes a 'tune-up' program which solves most of the problems mentioned in (a) above. Other vendors may do the same, I haven't needed to go any further.
(h) If you don't do banking on your computer, AVG have a limited FREE version, which does everything necessary, if what you do isn't vital. I have five computers in my household, for various purposes, the two important ones have the fully paid version of AVG Security, the other three, like the one in my workshop, which doesn't do anything vital, have AVG Free installed, just in case something nasty appears on a CD or a USB device used to transfer data, or a rare access on the internet.
(i) XP won't die until other companies or organisations such as Mozilla and AVG decide their products aren't being used enough to justify support any longer. If Windows 2K is any guide, that will take many years.
(j) If you don't suffer from technology terror, by all means switch to Linux eventually, I have a dual-boot system on one of mine, using the SUSE version. Naturally, the Mozilla organisation has Linux versions of Firefox and Thunderbird available.
(k) Another interesting point. If you are rehashing your system, always partition your hard drive, into several logical drives, ie C: D: E: ..... depending on it's size, so that it looks like several hard drives. You can then fool around with drive C:, without danger. Of course, 2 or more hard drives is better, a hardware crash can still wipe everything, but it's better than nothing. The average "Computer Man", or "Computer Shop" never does this - next time, demand that he/they does/do. It's also more secure, all your personal files don't have to reside on drive C:, and the "my documents" directory is empty.