Q: Will I be able to use Windows 7 safely for the next few years? I have the option to switch to Windows 10, which most likely won’t support my printer and several important programs that I don’t wish to pay to upgrade because they suit my present needs, although they are a few years old. My present setup works well, and I’m afraid I will regret changing, which will require upgrades, etc. — Mary Romano
A: Microsoft will support Windows 7 (with ) until Jan. 14, 2020, according to the company’s .
This is part of the “extended support” for the 6-year-old operating system. Mainstream support ended in January of this year, which meant no more cool new features. Extended support means security updates will still be released until 2020.
So yes, Windows 7 will be “safe” to use for the next few years.
But just because support doesn’t end for five years doesn’t mean you should ignore the new Windows 10, which is free for Windows 7 and 8 owners.
So far, I’ve received several messages from readers who were uncertain about Windows 10 but ultimately updated anyway and were astounded at how easy it was and how little changed.
I ditto that sentiment from when I upgraded my machine. But then again, I’m used to new things.
For those who are still uncertain, Microsoft provides a feature to scan your computer to see whether all your existing software programs are supported in Windows 10.
If a program isn’t supported, you should bug the software maker to find out when the Windows 10 update will be available.
There’s also a deadline on getting Windows 10 for free. The . For those who don’t have Windows 7 or 8, the latest .
For our past coverage of the Windows 10 upgrade, go to .
Tamara Chuang: tchuang@denverpost.com or visit dpo.st/tamara
