How to secure Windows 7 on your business devices
Running Windows 7 securely in 2025 is really challenging, and we don’t recommend it unless you absolutely have to.
Running Windows 7 securely in 2025 is really challenging, and we don’t recommend it unless you absolutely have to.
Although Syn-Star always recommends using the latest version of all software, there are some cases when, for whatever reason, you must stick with an older version like Windows 7. Manufacturing, for example, is such an industry.
Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 in January 2020 which means that you are no longer able to receive security updates. So, if you still must use Windows 7 here are our recommendations to keep your systems as safe as possible.
If you are forced to use Windows 7 for various reasons, it’s crucial to understand that the only way to use it securely is to keep it completely offline and unconnected to the network.
Using this approach ensures that your systems are protected from online threats such as malware, viruses, and cybercriminals.
Here’s why this is necessary and why you should always entrust an IT professional to handle this for you:
Security Vulnerabilities: Since support for Windows 7 stopped in 2014, this has caused the system to become highly vulnerable to cyber threats. Keeping it offline prevents exposure to these online risks.
No Security Patches: Without the latest security patches to your Windows 7 systems, your out at a greater risk of data breaches along with other cyber attacks.
Outdated Software and Hardware Compatibility: New software and hardware are often incompatible with Windows XP, this increases your risk of security issues and downtime to your business.
Ineffective Firewall: The built-in firewall in Windows 7 is outdated and less effective compared to modern firewalls, making network-connected Windows 7 systems easy targets for exploitation.
Security Vulnerabilities: Since Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 in 2017, this system no longer receives security updates, leaving it highly vulnerable to modern cyber threats. Hackers are continuously developing new malware, ransomware, and viruses that can easily exploit outdated systems like Windows 7.
Lack of Modern Software Support: Most modern web browsers, such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, no longer support Windows 7. This means users are stuck with outdated browsers that lack security patches, increasing the risk of phishing attacks and malicious websites.
Additionally, many essential software programmes, including antivirus applications, no longer function properly on Windows 7, leaving users even more exposed to cyber threats.
Unsecured Network Risks: Even if you are only using Windows 7 within a local network, this can still be a weak point for attackers. If an infected device connects to the same network, malware can spread to Windows 7 systems due to their outdated security protocols.
Mitigating Risks: If you are currently using Windows 7, the best way to minimise risks is to keep it completely offline.
If you’re unsure how to secure your Windows 7 system or need assistance with safer alternatives, contact us for expert guidance and tailored solutions. We’re here to help ensure your systems remain as secure as possible.
Example: The ryuk Ransomware attack in 2017 this ransomware spread to more than 200,000 computers in over 150 countries. Companies affected included: FedEx, Honda, Nissan, and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
This ransomware attack operates on system vulnerabilities being able to jump from computer to computer, installing copies of itself causing widespread damage. Without security updates, Windows 7 lacks protection against such threats, making it unsafe for internet use.
No, within the normal circumstances, you cannot get Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation if you are using Windows XP.
To achieve Cyber Essentials certification, all devices within the scope of your assessment must have operating systems that are supported by the manufacturer.
Since Windows 7 has reached end of life and is no longer supported by Microsoft, it does not meet the requirements for Cyber Essentials certification.
However by choosing to partner with Syn-Star, a trusted IT provider for manufacturing businesses across the UK, we have tackled this dilemma many times putting in place strict measures to ensure your business can achieve cyber essentials while containing operations on operating systems like Windows 7.
Yes, using Windows 7 can affect your ability to get cyber insurance or it can massively increase your risk profile and increase your payment amount.
Insurance providers often require businesses to use supported and up-to-date operating systems to minimise the risk of cyber threats.
Since Windows 7 is no longer supported and does not receive security updates, it is highly vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
This increased risk can make it difficult to obtain cyber insurance or result in higher premiums. For support tackling this issue please get in touch.
Syn-Star understands that you might not have a choice whether you update your Windows 7 operating system or not. So, if you need any help with running Windows 7 or potentially upgrading to newer machines, then Syn-Star can help.
Anne-Marie Blazdell
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Agnes Molnar
Agnes is Syn-Star’s expert content writer, she has Master’s degree in English Literature that provides a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking of everything she does.
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You’re device is on an Unsupported Windows Operating System for your security, please contact us.
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You and your team are able to see where they are using their time and how productive they are actually being. Also they are able to clock in and out, so really good for flexi-working.
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If you would like to know what your team is doing and how productive they are being, we are able to monitor them and create screenshots of what they are working on. This can be run in normal or stealth mode.
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From conference calling facilities to the headsets which work best for your team, we’re able to provide all the equipment you need and complete any telecoms job from start to finish.
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