From July 13, Microsoft will end its support for Windows 2000 and XP Service Pack 2, according to a media statement Monday.
Specifically, users of these two operating systems will not receive security updates or non-security hot fixes, free or paid assisted support, the option to engage Microsoft’s product development resources as well as
updates to online content (KB articles, etc.)
Microsoft customers are “highly encouraged” to migrate to the latest supported service pack which is the latest and most secure version of their product. Staying on a supported service pack is the only way to ensure continued access to security updates and the ability to escalate support issues within Microsoft.
To ensure that customers understand exactly what end of support means, Microsoft has put together a list of questions customers might ask about end of support. In addition, Microsoft has guidance for customers to understand what version of Windows they’re using today and how to upgrade their PCs to the version that’s right for them.
Launched in February 2000, Windows 2000 promises to build on the security and stability of its predecessor, Windows NT. Targeted largely at business users, Windows 2000 came in various flavours including Windows 2000 Professional for enterprise desktops and Windows 2000 Server, Advanced Server and Datacenter Server on corporate servers.
