In January 2020, Microsoft ended free support and stopped releasing security updates for Windows 7, recommending all users upgrade to Windows 10.
This scenario presented a security risk to UNH, as the university had 1,300 Windows 7 computers online in 2019. Without updates, these computers would have become vulnerable to malicious attacks.
During 2019, Enterprise Technology & Services (ET&S) worked diligently to help UNH Windows 7 users with this upgrade by offering free consulting, remote and onsite support, and upgrade assistance at the IT Depot (located in MUB 213A). Employees were able to drop their computers off for upgrades, and many received free loaner laptops to use while their computers were in the shop.
ET&S also created self-upgrade documentation to assist users who chose to upgrade to Windows 10 on their own.
Additionally, individuals and departments planning to purchase new replacement computers were assisted with consultation services and recommendations for purchases made through the UNH Computer Purchasing Program.
All told, ET&S upgraded, retired, or helped replace all but 52 (4%) of the original 1,300 Windows 7 computers. Efforts are ongoing to address the remaining Windows 7 computers, which include replacements, upgrading to Windows 10, or subscribing to Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program.
