6 Outdated Tech Tools That Have or Soon Will Lose Vital Security Updates
Today, we live in a world where technology performs many functions. With the advent of technology, it is not surprising that a technological tool that was once popular can fade into thin air the next minute, and another occupies its position.
With software security, there are severe consequences that you can face when you keep making use of hardware or software for your business when your vendor no longer provides support. Using software that has gotten to its End of Life (EOL) is always dangerous.
When the software reaches its end of life, the vendor will no longer be able to fix anything that pertains to it. As such, when there is a vulnerability in the system, that allows a hacker to exploit the code.
People tend to get attached to their technology and may use operating systems and software far after the end of support date. For example, even though Windows 7 hit its EOL more than two and a half years ago, 13% of computers are still using it.
It is widespread for software companies to discontinue their technical support for older versions and focus on the current and future iterations.
Let’s take a look at some of the tech that is now outdated and can leave your devices at risk should you still be using them.
1. Windows 7
Microsoft made it clear to its users that the Windows 7 will no longer be supported after January 14, 2020. This means that computers running the Windows 7 operating system are like sitting ducks for hackers because they no longer receive security patches or updates.
Additionally, many of the newer software and PC peripherals will not support Windows 7, leaving users with very limited options.
2. Smartphones that made use of Windows OS
Since iOS and Android phones have gained ground on the market, the Windows OS phone could just not survive. Microsoft ended support and security updates for this short-lived mobile OS back in December of 2019.
Dissatisfied customers did not accept the phone’s features compared to their Android and iOS counterparts. Customers’ satisfaction led Microsoft to discontinue developing new features for the Windows phone.
To further bolster their point, Microsoft announced to the general public that users should switch to a supported iOS and Android phone. To this effect, a smartphone that used Windows OS is now obsolete.
3. D-Link Devices
Home Wi-Fi routers do not inform users of their EOL in the way that software developers do. So, how will you determine when one has reached its end of life?
Wi-Fi routers run on software the same way operating systems and smartphones do. The software that runs hardware is called “firmware.” If you fail to update your firmware to the latest version, you will be exposed to many risks.
In recent times, it was discovered that there were numerous vulnerabilities with the D-Link devices. This vulnerability affects a lot of its routers. If you examine a good number of these devices, you will find that the vendor no longer supports them.
Some ways such a router can impact security include making your network vulnerable to various attacks, redirecting your bank’s information to attack-prone sites, and other activities you don’t expect to happen.
4. Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer (IE) was formerly used as a browser on Windows devices. It ruled the internet in the early 2000s. But at some point, Microsoft announced that it was making plans to kill its support for the browser.
Since then, Edge, which was introduced over five years ago, has replaced IE as the main Microsoft browser that comes pre-installed with Windows. Internet Explorer was officially discontinued on June 15, 2022.
5. Standalone MP3 Player
When iPod was introduced in the 2000s, it changed how many people accessed music. MP3 players were prevalent at the time and regarded as powerful devices even though they were tiny.
But, with the introduction of smartphones, MP3 players vanished as smartphones provided a personalized playlist on their phones where people could easily access music with the aid of mobile applications. If you have any old MP3 players with internet connectivity, there is a good chance that it poses a risk to your network.
6. Adobe Flash Player
Adobe Flash Player is another software that ruled the early 2000s. It was used widely for websites to provide animations and for early versions of online games. But with the advent of more sophisticated technology, Adobe pulled the Plug on Flash at the end of 2020.
This browser plugin is no longer receiving support of any kind, including security updates. Because it is a browser plugin, it could be harder to find than other software. If you’re unsure whether your PC still has Flash installed, look in your browser settings to remove it.
Get Help Keeping Your Systems Updated & Secure
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Feel free to reach out to us at 423-467-7777.