Despite seeing continued usage since its inception, the official end of support for Windows XP will arrive on April 8. Due in part to lukewarm reception to its successor - Windows Vista - there was little migration away from the operating system, and many users got caught in a vicious cycle of not being able to upgrade because of incompatible hardware.

If at all possible, it is advisable to move to a more updated operating system and/or computer as soon as possible. Those still running Windows XP after April 8 will find themselves increasingly vulnerable to attacks from malicious hackers who have learned from issues addressed by updates to its newer incarnations. But even if upgrading will not be possible or desired, there are still other ways to survive the end of the beloved Windows XP.

There are going to have to be some changes made by those who currently run Windows XP. Here is a list of the three most common alternatives people will be choosing as the end approaches:

1) Upgrading to Windows 8

Windows has gone through several evolutions since the time of XP. First came Vista, then Windows 7, which was supposed to be a return to some of the functionality that made XP so popular. After that came Windows 8 - a vast departure from the traditional Windows layout that favored the touchscreen advancements that have gained a place in personal computing.

Upgrading to Windows 8 is the move that makes the most sense for those who want to stay within the Microsoft ecosystem. Not only that, but it is the route that Microsoft itself is hoping to push on its customers. In an effort to lure its clientele away from XP, the company has been offering coupons and instant rebates toward new hardware, incentivizing a transition away from the dated operating system that continues to see widespread use.

2) Moving away from Microsoft

But some may have become tired of using these products, and if they are going to make a change then it needs to be a significant one. The first obvious solution to this issue would be to join the Apple fan base, but there are other offerings that might make more sense in professional settings.

Linux, which has long been a favorite operating system of computer developers around the world, is starting to gain steam as an alternative to Windows in ATMs. Many believe that the use of Linux will provide better control over systems than Windows can provide.

3) Keep using XP

While seeking alternatives to the 12-year-old operating system are preferred, there are still going to be stragglers after Microsoft ends support of XP. This is often because of factors beyond the control of the user. Maybe a set of classroom computers does not have the funding behind it to upgrade the machines properly. For those who will not be able to make the April 8 deadline, there is hope.


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