Managing Windows XP® and Windows Server 2003 end of life
As announced several times, Microsoft stopped supporting the Windows XP® operating system on April 8, 2014. Windows XP® users are no longer receiving software updates or technical support from Microsoft. The Windows Server 2003 server operating system also reaches its end of life in July 2015.
Microsoft is recommending Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 users to upgrade to Windows 7 or 8, but this involves costs for new operating system software, and could also require investment in new hardware since the PCs (or other hardware devices) that have been used run Windows XP® for some years may be incompatible with the latest Windows operating systems.
Computers using Windows XP or Windows Server 2003 after the end-of-life date could become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses, in addition, users will find new software and hardware which is optimized for more current Windows operating systems, so that greater numbers of apps and devices may not work with Windows XP/Server 2003.
Windows XP/Server 2003 end-of-life presents some critical risks to the safe management of assets and plants operating on Windows XP/Server 2003-based solutions, a situation that also affects ABB automation and control systems.
For our customers using Windows XP or Windows Server 2003 ABB helps eliminate or mitigate the end-of-life risks.
ABB’s recommendation - Evolution: By far the best solution is to see this as an opportunity to upgrade your existing ABB automation system with new ABB products and application software. ABB has defined a product support life cycle policy for its control systems and products to help our customers’ predict support for their automation assets. This policy then forms the basic lifecycle management foundation for ABB’s Automation Sentinel program. This program enables you to evolve the existing system in accordance with your plant and business requirements, while maximizing your return on previous investments made in the system.
ABB can also provide on-site project coordination and installation services as per your service contract.
Please do not hesitate to contact your local ABB office to receive more information.