Microsoft Windows XP Embedded ends extended support

Ask Control Engineering: Extended support for Microsoft Windows XP Embedded has ended; what should I do?

By Chris Vavra January 12, 2016

Ask Control Engineering: Since Microsoft has ended extended support for Microsoft Windows XP Embedded support as of Jan. 12, what should I do, if anything?

Answer: Since Microsoft is no longer offering support for its 15-year-old operating system, Microsoft Windows XP Embedded, so those who have procrastinated now have additional concerns and risks to address.

"What’s worse," said one manufacturing IT expert, "is to not even know if you have any XP systems running."

Dennis Brandl, president of DR&L Consulting, and a Control Engineering columnist, explained the needed necessary next steps in a Jan. 1, 2016, article, "The long goodbye to Microsoft Windows XP Embedded."

In the article, he warns that users still using Microsoft Windows XP Embedded systems in their facilities will be running into several additional security risks. Finding compatible software will be very difficult and this, in turn, will make the systems more vulnerable to cyber security attacks. Brandl explains that running a complete system inventory will at least make it clear if there’s a potential support problem.

Brandl goes on to explain how to assess risk and how to track and evaluate software for replacement. Link to the article below, which also connects to additional, related advice for software upgrades and replacement.

– Chris Vavra is production editor, Control Engineering, CFE Media, cvavra@cfemedia.com.

ONLINE extra

– See the full article from Brandl about Microsoft Windows XP Embedded below as will as additional advice from the author.


Author Bio: Chris Vavra is web content manager for CFE Media and Technology.