Vista Mainstream Support Ends Today, XP Extended Support Ends 2014
Microsoft’s lifecycle fact sheet shows that mainstream support for the much-loved (sorry) Windows Vista ends today. This means that only security updates will now be available under extended support, until April 11, 2017, when that will stop too. The zombie OS-that-refuses-to-die Windows XP, has of course entered the extended support phase long ago now. XP will continue to get security updates until April 8, 2014. Interestingly, even though Windows 7 is the current flagship operating system and still in production, Microsoft have defined the end of support dates: January 15, 2015 for mainstream support and January 14, 2020 for extended support. So, those that can’t stand Windows 8 and its Metro interface can hang on to Windows 7 for another 8 years if they really want to. The fact sheet also explains the downgrade rights available to customers of older software.
Downgrade Rights give you the right to use previous versions of Microsoft software. Microsoft Volume Licensing programs include specific Downgrade Rights granted in connection with all application software licenses acquired through Volume Licensing, FPP (Full Packaged Product), and OEMs enrolled in Software Assurance coverage. Please refer to the Microsoft Volume Licensing Product List for current information about which retail and OEM applications qualify for enrollment in Software Assurance.
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