Can Windows XP be used in 2024?

Windows XP is one of the most popular versions Microsoft operating system. More than 10 years after it was discontinued, more than 5.1 million users worldwide are still using it. This got us wondering if it would be possible to install and use it as our operating system in 2024.

Before you begin this mission, you should know that Windows XP It does not have any official support. When Microsoft began its extended support period in 2009, the operating system was installed on more than 75% of computers. Five years later, the tech giant has stopped offering security updates, although it has been forced to release several patches to address vulnerabilities such as the WannaCry ransomware that surfaced in 2017.

Every year at the end of the year, dozens of users brag Reddit which are supported on Windows XP because no need to migrate. Despite the vulnerabilities and the small number of compatible applications, many remain faithful to this version. After all, Windows XP is one of the friendliest operating systems Microsoft has ever developed.

Why use Windows XP in 2024?

To be honest, there is several reasons why you should use Windows XP in 2024. If you’re a retro fan and have a computer from 15 or 20 years ago, you’ll probably want to install a compatible operating system on it. While many recommend choosing a lightweight Linux distribution, it doesn’t allow you to access classic software as easily.

Windows XP is easy to use and part of the success of Windows 7 and Windows 10 is that they were inspired by this version. A blue taskbar with a giant green start button and a distinctive wallpaper or customization option. skins Windows Media Player is a good reason to return. Games like Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Generals of command and conquest or NFS Porsche on the loose They are impossible to run on modern hardware or require a lot of work.

The only downside to this ease of use is the difficulty of making it work in 2024. Windows XP has a lifespan of over 23 years, so Accessing the installation disk may be difficult. Add to this that Microsoft removed the official files from their website four years ago and Digital River’s servers are no longer operational, so you’ll have to look for the ISO on the Internet Archive or download Delta Edition.

The dangers of using a vulnerable operating system

If you manage to get it, the first thing you should do is install antivirus and latest updates through the system or Legacy Update. It is advisable to have a clean flash drive with the antivirus installer (Avast), Pale Moon Browser or Legacy Update, as well as hardware drivers. Trying to use Internet Explorer without protecting your computer will result in malware infection in a few minutes.

A few months ago, cybersecurity expert Eric Parker ran a test by connecting a Windows XP computer to the Internet. After 10 minutes, there was already a suspicious process on the computer and a Trojan that created a user account. Even if you’re navigating XP carefully, you should always check the list of processes in Windows Task Manager.

Another issue you’ll run into is compatibility. Most of the apps you used 20 years ago are gone or no longer supported.. Some have stopped supporting this operating system a long time ago and the latest version is extremely vulnerable.

While it is technically possible to use Windows XP in everyday life, the time required to set it up takes away the simplicity that once defined it. You can install it on a virtual machine to test its functionality.as long as you do it with proper precautions. Some clients, such as VMWare, enable side-channel mitigations by default, which protect against attacks, although at the cost of performance.

The days when Windows Messenger, Winamp and Kazaa reigned supreme will never return. It’s better to preserve those memories than try to install a broken operating system in 2024.