If You’re Running Older Versions of Internet Explorer, Java, or Flash, Your PC is at Risk

It’s important that your business uses the most recent version of any operating systems and software solutions used by your workforce, but Internet Explorer “fans” have had a rough start to 2016. Nearly a quarter of all Windows PCs are still using unsupported versions of Internet Explorer, half of which are still running Windows XP.

This past January, Microsoft stopped supporting all versions of Internet Explorer that aren’t the current version: Internet Explorer 11. This means that there are many unsupported web browsers that are lacking patches and security updates, including Internet Explorer 7, 8, 9, and 10. Half of the PCs that currently run Windows XP are still running Internet Explorer 7 and 8, which is a recipe for disaster.

To determine what version of Internet Explorer you are running, open up the browser and go under Help and look for an option called About Internet Explorer. Some versions of IE don’t have a help menu. If you don’t see it, look for a Gear Icon.

Researchers at Duo Security discovered these statistics following an analysis of over two million devices. In particular, those who are running Windows XP were the main culprits for running older versions of Internet Explorer. Naturally, the combination of these two pieces of unsupported software practically begs hackers to target these systems.

It was also found by Duo Security that 72 percent of Java and 60 percent of versions of Flash are also out of date on user devices, both of which can potentially open up even more outlets for attacks by hackers. It’s a testament to how end-users will handle their technology; if they don’t perceive an immediate threat, they will often put off upgrading software for the sake of convenience. This is a disaster waiting to happen, and it’s your responsibility as the business owner to ensure that you’re not putting your business’s workstations, servers, and other components, in harm’s way.

While keeping your business’s critical technology infrastructure up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates is a challenge, it’s still a necessary struggle. You can’t allow a single workstation or server to put the integrity of your organization’s infrastructure on the line. You shouldn’t let the same old technology hold you back from achieving greatness with your IT infrastructure.

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be a struggle. With Macro Systems at your side, upgrading your technology is as easy as can be. We can thoroughly assess your business’s specific needs, and consult you on how best to move forward with your technology upgrade. The important thing to keep in mind is that you should always approach tech upgrades with caution. The last thing you want is to make a drastic change to your infrastructure, and render it obsolete.

Macro Systems can remotely monitor and maintain your business’s critical systems, administering patches and security updates without the need for a costly on-site visit. This saves you money in the long run, and you won’t have to worry about missing an important update for your solutions. To learn more, give us a call at (703) 359-9211.