Windows XP Retirement

Microsoft will end support for Windows XP on April 8th, 2014. This means that it will no longer receive security updates and would pose a significant risk with continued use. As of April 30th, there are just over 700 Windows XP computers on campus. Due to the amount of work needed to update them all,  ITS is starting to prepare to help users upgrade their computers now. Some of these computers can just update to Windows 7, while others will need to update their memory, hard drives or even their computer as well. A Support Center technician can advise you on the nature of your system's capabilities.

To see what operating system you are using, go to the Start menu in the bottom left corner. Right-click on "Computer" and select "Properties". It will either say "Microsoft Windows XP" or "Windows 7 Professional". If it says "XP", your computer will need to be upgraded.

Support retirement means that desktop support staff will no longer install or troubleshoot issues related to this software. Instead, ITS will provide assistance with updating to a supported operating system.

To update your operating system, you must order a license from CruzBuy or the ITS Software Order Form. Then open a ticket or email help@ucsc.edu for installation help.

Microsoft's current operating systems include:
  • Windows 7 (recommended by ITS)
  • Windows 8


UCSC Computer Standards for Windows

What do I do if I have a computer with XP?

  1. Open a ticket to be upgraded. A license for Windows 7 will also need to be purchased.
  2. Depending on your PC, it may be able to support the upgraded operating system. A Support Center technician will evaluate your computer for this. Users can also self-check here: Microsoft Upgrade Advisor.
  3. If it's not compatible, then either a new PC or memory/hard drive should be purchased. ITS will help in recommending and installing any purchases.

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