Avast Still Supports Windows 7 | Avast

You probably heard that Microsoft officially stopped support for Windows 7 on Jan. 14th 2020. If you're running the favored OS , your computer still functions, but Microsoft will not provide technical support for any issues, software updates, or security updates or fixes. 

“While you'll still use your PC running Windows 7, without continued software and security updates, it'll be at greater risk for viruses and malware,” Microsoft says. 

In light of that security warning, you would possibly be wondering what happened with Windows 7, what is going to happen to your antivirus, if  My Avast still works, and what you've got to try to to . we will explain the large picture, and answer more questions below. 

Yes, we've you covered and that we will fully support Avast antivirus products on Windows 7.

“Worldwide, roughly 26% of PC users are still running Windows 7, the OS (OS) that as of January 14 will not receive technical support within the sort of updates and patches from Microsoft,” says Martin Zima, Avast senior product manager for cover products.

“According to our own research, quite a 3rd of our PC customers have Windows 7 installed, which is essentially thanks to ongoing preference for the merchandise versus newer versions.” 

Zima said ending technical support for Windows 7 leaves the machines on which it’s installed susceptible to cyberattacks that seek to take advantage of unpatched flaws. “In the interest of our users’ security and privacy, Avast will still provide virus definition updates for Windows 7 for those that are unable or don't wish to form the switch to a more moderen version of Windows.” 

How long will Avast Login continue support for Windows 7? For a minimum of two years. thus far we don’t foresee a speedy increase within the migration of users to the newer Windows versions, and haven’t set any hard deadline for our support.

What will happen if i buy an Avast Premium Security license and choose to vary my OS later?

You are always ready to transfer your subscription. you'll simply require an activation code or Avast account login credentials. you'll find more information that on our support pages. 

Your questions answered

What happened with Windows 7?

The OS Windows 7 was launched in July 2009 and have become hugely popular. Maintaining an OS is difficult and dear , and Microsoft prefers to specialise in its latest OS, Windows 10. Thus, like all other OS, Windows 7 had its lifespan, and in January 2015 Microsoft ended mainstream support for it. That meant that there have been no improvements or new features added, but it had been patched for vulnerabilities and glued for bugs, remaining a secure OS . In January 2020, Windows ended this support also .

Does Avast’s protection of my device running Windows 7 change?

Your Avast protection doesn’t change, whether you're using Avast Free Antivirus or Premium Security. Windows 7 users will still enjoy our latest protection against viruses, malware, and other threats – but please remember that the danger of using an unsupported OS does increase over time.

What does it mean that Avast will still provide virus definition updates and merchandise updates for Windows 7?

It means with product updates you'll receive the newest version of Avast and every one the new features with every release, while at an equivalent time virus definition updates help to secure you from the newest malware and security threats. By default, Avast Antivirus is about to update the virus definitions and application automatically whenever a replacement version is out there . We strongly recommend that you simply keep automatic updates enabled.

Do I even have to try to to anything to stay my device protected?

The main risk of using unsupported software, including operating systems, is that it’s hospitable potential vulnerabilities and malware which may exploit them. Usually, when there’s a vulnerability found, Windows releases a patch (you might remember Bluekeep), it’s not getting to be the case for Windows 7 anymore.

Second, the top of support for an OS means other software and hardware companies at some point will stop supporting it with their own programs/hardware. It won’t happen overnight – don’t worry. Google announced that it'll continue supporting its Chrome browser on Windows 7 for a minimum of 18 months.

What it all means to you

1. Using reliable antivirus, such as Avast Free Antivirus or Premium Security, becomes even more critical. (If you’re not an Avast user, you can choose the right product for yourself here.)
2. Keep all your software updated. (Here’s how.) For your Avast product we recommend keeping automatic updates enabled. And Premium Security can help you update your programs automatically.
3. Use a firewall – it helps to prevent hackers from breaking into your computer. Avast Premium Security includes a firewall.
4. Find alternatives to the built-in software. Microsoft will not roll out updates for it as well. These include applications such as browsers (Internet Explorer), and media player (Windows Media Player). 
5. Run regular scans.
6. Back up your important data regularly.
7. Be careful with downloading files from the Internet and email. If you’re unsure about some files, run them in the safe environment, e.g. Sandbox.
8. If your computer is compatible (or if you’re planning on getting a new one), you can go ahead and upgrade to Windows 10, which is fully supported by Microsoft.