Microsoft will not provide security updates or other technical assistance for Windows XP or Office 2003 after April 8. Information Technology Services (ITS) recommends that users upgrade to the current versions of these products before support ends to avoid potential software failure. ITS also encourages users to safeguard important data against security risks.
Review Microsoft’s system requirements to ensure the computer’s system is compatible with either Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.
Users should prepare for the upgrade process by backing up important documents and data to external storage. Because the upgrade from Windows XP to either Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 requires a “clean install,” data will not be preserved during the process.
Print upgrade instructions provided by Microsoft before beginning.
Visit the Case Western Reserve University Software Center to download installation files and begin the installation process. For a faster experience, connect to the campus wired network.
Users who plan to migrate their XP computers to Windows 8.1 will find a helpful migration tutorial at lynda.com, as well as a tutorial on using Windows 8.1.
Technical support for upgrades, troubleshooting and more is available 24/7 from the ITS Service Desk at 216.368.HELP (4357) and help@case.edu.