Protecting Your Computer on Windows 10

Microsoft’s Windows 10 has now officially stopped providing built-in security updates to users. Though it is possible in some cases to apply for a paid extension, this only adds another year of security support, after which users will be left without operating-system-level protection. This puts many users at risk, and it’s an issue that needs to be addressed seriously and proactively.

How Much of a Risk Exists?

It’s impossible to say for sure exactly how much of a risk each personal or business computer will face with the end of Windows 10 security support. It depends on the use case, the practices of the user, and the potential security flaws still waiting in Windows 10 code.

There is no way of telling when or if a system will be targeted, but it is important to note that Nigeria is a common target for bad actors in the space. This has been a persistent problem for years now, with ransomware being an especially challenging issue facing Nigerian organisations. In 2021 alone, ransomware attacks struck 71% of organisations as measured in one survey, appreciably more than the global average.

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Updating Systems

The best way to protect computer systems against additional threats is to update to Windows 11, but this option isn’t available to everyone. Updates are managed officially by following a guide and running a compatibility checking program. While some systems are supported, the hardware restrictions on upgrade mean many will be left out, so users in this situation require a different approach.

One possibility is to lean on other security tools outside of Microsoft to keep your system protected. Free apps like Malwarebytes can offer much of the same functionality, but paid services will tend to be more reliable. Just be sure you know how to install and operate these properly, since they can come with a learning curve.

Users and businesses also have the option of selling their existing systems and upgrading them to platforms that already include Windows 11 as the default. This will require a transfer of data and apps, but it might be the most reliable option for users who can afford it.

Purchasing new systems can also let users recuperate some of their losses by selling older machines, once all sensitive data is wiped. These can still be highly desired by people with less demanding pursuits, like streaming or light interactive entertainment. Online live casino games are a prime example. Titles like Super Card and Roulette Live work perfectly on less-powerful work computers, so you’ll find people happy to both pay for and collect older work systems.

If you haven’t updated your computer in a while, newer systems can also boost productivity by offering better performance at a lower price point. If you’re still operating an older rotary hard drive, going from a boot-up time of minutes to one that takes 15 seconds is an eye-opening experience. Combined with lower overall loading times and fewer crashes, upgrades can pay for themselves in saved time.

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The luckiest users might be able to go for years without running into a single security issue on a Windows 10 or older system. The unluckiest might see a problem tomorrow. To be safe, it’s best to plan for the worst and protect yourself as best you can until you can upgrade to the latest systems. Even if it just means installing free programs and running regular scans, staying diligent to protect yourself or your business is a must.