Just because a company feels that a product has come to the end of its natural life doesn't necessarily mean it is doomed. Microsoft has always made a commitment to support products long after they are no longer sold. For example, security updates
are still available for Windows. 2000, an even older operating system than Windows XP.

Confirmed what we had'found on Microsoft's website that support for Windows XP will continue until 8 April 2014. This support comes in two forms. Mainstream support will to replace it. But if Vista is better than XP, why is there any reason not to upgrade? If you are getting a new PC, then we last until 14Apri12009. This includes updates that add new features to the operating system, such as the Windows Firewall that was added to Windows XP with Service Pack 2. When this support ends, Microsoft will not develop any more extra features for Windows XP.

But since it's not exactly short on features and there's plenty of free software available from other sources, this shouldn't cause users too much of a problem.
The last major update for Windows XP was Service Pack 3. Unlike previous service packs, it did not add many visible features. For example, it doesn't install Internet Explorer 7, which has to be done separately. However, it does include updates that make it easier to connect with Windows Vista computers over a network, as well as support for the most secure form of wireless networking, WPA2.

Windows XP Service Pack 3 can be downloaded from www.tinyurl.comI6k9zo3 or by running Windows Update (left-click on the Start Button, then All programs and then Windows Update). After this support ends, there , is a important security updates that are needed to stay safe online. It will also continue to provide further help and information on the Microsoft Knowledgebase. However, non-security related updates will not be created. ;Anyone who wants support during this time, other than security updates, will probably have to contact the computer's man.ufacturer rather than calling Mictosoft direct.

During the period of extended support, there will still be the opportunity to buy support from Microsoft - but it's not what you'll call a bargain. An 'incident' can include several calls until the problem is fixed. The Microsoft Support Centre will be able to tell you if the problem is covered by free support or if a charge is required. See http://sllpport. microsoft.comlgplpersfaq for more information.

By the time all support is withdrawn, Windows XP will have clocked up nearly 13 years of existence, having been released on 17 October 2001. This is quite impressive, as we will see when we compare the support other companies offer users of their operating systems.