6 Discontinued Technology Tools You Should Not Be Using Any Longer

Technology changes quickly, and new tools often replace old ones. If you don’t update outdated systems, your computers and networks can become vulnerable to security risks, even if those tools were once essential.

Outdated technology might seem good enough, but using it can lead to serious data breaches. Keeping up with the latest tech helps protect your online safety and security.

If you don’t get important security updates from software and hardware providers, your devices are more likely to be attacked by hackers. These updates fix weaknesses that could be used to break in, so skipping them puts your data and systems at risk.

Approximately 1 in 3 data breaches are due to unpatched system vulnerabilities.

Outdated technology doesn’t just slow you down. It can also make customers think you don’t care about progress, which can damage their trust. Keeping your tech up to date helps you stay ahead of competitors and keep your customers’ confidence.

Important reasons to keep your technology updated to a supported version are:

1. Reduce the risk of a data breach or malware infection

2. Meet data privacy compliance requirements

3. To keep a good reputation and foster customer trust

4. To be competitive in your market

5. To mitigate hardware and software compatibility issues

6. To enable employee productivity

Old systems can make productivity drop and might even cause employees to quit. When people have to use outdated tools, they often get frustrated and look for jobs where they can work better.

49% of surveyed workers say they would consider leaving their jobs due to poor technology.

Is your technology current? Old tools can slow your business and reduce productivity. Check your home or office for outdated equipment, and use this list to help decide what to replace soon.

If you’re still using old technology, now is the time to upgrade.

Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer used to be the most popular browser. As technology advanced, Google Chrome became more popular, and Microsoft Edge replaced Internet Explorer as the main browser for most people today.

As of June 15, 2022, Microsoft’s Internet Explorer is no longer supported. This follows years of moving users to Microsoft Edge, which was first released in 2015.

Experience interactive multimedia with Adobe Flash!

Adobe Flash used to be the main tool for web animations. As technology improved and new methods appeared in the early 2000s, Flash became outdated. Adobe officially ended support for Flash, but many people remember how important it was for web content.

If you still use Adobe Flash Player, it’s time to stop. As of January 1, 2021, the software is discontinued and no longer gets security updates. To stay safe online, uninstall any remaining Flash programs from your computers as soon as possible.

With Windows 7 and its predecessors

Windows 7, once the king of operating systems for millions of people around the world, is no more. In its place a new generation has risen up; with Microsoft rolling out replacements in the form of modern versions like Windows 10 and 11 enjoying widespread popularity since January 14th 2020 when support for Windows 7 officially ended.

Even if your Microsoft Windows OS still works, it is at high risk for cyberattacks. Hackers often target this outdated version because it is vulnerable, so upgrading is important to stay protected.

With macOS 10.14 Mojave and earlier

Many people keep their Apple devices for a long time, even though they are expensive. However, unsupported macOS versions leave users unable to get important software updates and can put them at risk.

If you still use an older version of macOS, it’s time to upgrade. Apple no longer supports versions before 10.14 Mojave, so update to get the latest security updates and features.

Oracle 18c Database is an innovative

If you use an old Oracle database, be cautious. Oracle 18C puts your business at high risk for data breaches due to unpatched vulnerabilities. Upgrade to the latest version to protect your data.

After June 2021, Oracle 18C Database users stopped getting regular support. To keep receiving help, upgrade to version 19 or 21, but support for those versions will also end in April 2024.

Microsoft SQL Server 2014 is a reliable

If you still use Microsoft’s SQL Server 2014, consider upgrading. Mainstream support ended in 2019, and all support, including security updates, will end in July 2024.

With this extra time, you have a great opportunity to get ahead of the game and make sure your system is secure. Upgrade now for added peace-of-mind — there’s enough cushion in the timeline to thoroughly test out all changes before they’re put into effect.

Upgrade your tech and reduce risk with help from the experts

Are you ready to upgrade your technology? Making these changes can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help. Our experts will make sure the transition goes smoothly and will test everything to keep your systems stable. Don’t wait. Schedule a review today.