Security Updates Stopping for IE

Author: Craig Pollack Date: Jan 12, 2016 Topics: Cybersecurity

Security Updates Stopping for Internet Explorer 10

After today (January 12, 2016), Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for older versions of Internet Explorer (anything below IE 11). Security updates patch vulnerabilities that may be exploited by malware, helping to keep users and their data safer. Regular security updates help protect computers from malicious attacks, so upgrading and staying current is important.

What is end of support?

Beginning January 12, 2016, only the most current version of Internet Explorer available for a supported operating system will receive technical supports and security updates. Internet Explorer 11 is the last version of Internet Explorer, and will continue to receive security updates, compatibility fixes, and technical support on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.

What is the potential risk?

Security: Without critical browser security updates, your PC may become vulnerable to harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software which can steal or damage your business data and information.

Compliance: Businesses that are governed by regulatory obligations such as HIPAA should conduct due diligence to assess whether they are still able to satisfy compliance requirements using unsupported software.

How long will IE 11 be supported?

Internet Explorer is a component of the Windows operating system and the most current version will continue to follow the specific support lifecycle policy for the operating system on which it is installed. Internet Explorer 11 will be supported for the life of Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. To find the support lifecycle dates for all operating systems, search the Support Lifecycle Database here.

What if my enterprise line-of-business (LOB) application requires an earlier version of IE?

As some commercial customers have standardized on earlier versions of Internet Explorer, Microsoft is introducing new features and resources to help customers upgrade and stay current on the latest browser. For example, Enterprise Mode enables the use of legacy web apps with Internet Explorer 11. For guidance and upgrade resources, please visit TechNet.

What does this mean?

If you're a client, please contact us and we can walk through the specific approach needed to upgrade your systems.

If you're a home user and you haven't turned on Automatic Updates yet, you can do so now by clicking the Check for Updates button on the Windows Update portion of the Control Panel to get started.

Either way, it means you should take action.

Author

Craig Pollack

Craig Pollack

Craig is the Founder & CEO of FPA Technology Services, Inc. Craig provides the strategy and direction for FPA, ensuring its clients, business owners, and key decision makers leverage technology as efficiently and effectively as possible. With over 30 years of experience building the preeminent IT Service Provider in the Southern California area, Craig is one of the area’s leading authorities on how small to mid-sized businesses can best leverage and secure their technology to achieve their business objectives.

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