Today - Tuesday, April 8 - is the official deadline for user technical support for the Windows XP operating system (OS). After 12 years of being available to the general public, Microsoft is pulling the plug on the widely popular OS, which will leave computers still running on the now outdated XP vulnerable to cyber attacks and viruses.

No longer offering any security upgrades or fixes, the tech company has been encouraging users to upgrade to the newer Windows 7 or Windows 8 systems. While there continues to be some resistance, Microsoft has reported that more individuals are making the switch. But that does not mean potential issues down the road will not present themselves.

According to a recent article on CNN's website, 95 percent of bank ATMs still run on XP, as well as hundreds of thousands of computers in offices across the country. This leaves the financial information of an untold number of people vulnerable to thieves, as well as sensitive corporate information.

"It's literally everywhere still," said Ryan Permeh, a chief scientist at cyber security company Cylance. "Every point that's running XP is ripe for worms. They haven't been much of a common occurrence in modern times, but any new vulnerability could result in mass infection with very little remediation."

With Windows XP computers increasingly likely to develop a virus or be infiltrated by hackers, Microsoft is strongly urging all users to make the upgrade to a newer system. Even if you are resistant to the change, it will benefit your computer in the long run.

By shopping with PortableOne, you will be able to choose from our extensive selection of electronic devices, including up-to-date laptops with windows. Upgrade to a new Microsoft OS with a brand new computer!