Windows 7 end of life

Windows 7 is no longer safe enough to use

On Jan. 14, 2020, Microsoft stopped supporting the Windows 7 operating system. The software is now unsafe, and using it violates campus policy.

Computers and systems that still run on Windows 7 are easy targets for hackers, malware, and viruses, exposing anyone who uses those systems to security risks and other vulnerabilities.

UC policy* and campus policy require that devices connected to the UC Davis network must run on software for which security patches are available, and installed, in a timely fashion.

Options

1. Upgrade your machine's operating system

If you aren't sure what version you run, see Microsoft's "Which version of Windows operating system am I running?" page.
For computers owned by UC Davis, or managed by your department's IT staff, contact your local IT support staff or your Unit Information Security Lead.
For personally owned computers, see the section on this page titled "Free or low-cost upgrades for students and for home use by faculty, staff."

2. Purchase a new computer

To buy a new university-owned machine, contact your department's IT support staff or your Unit Information Security Lead.

3. Buy Extended Security Updates from Microsoft

Use these updates only if you need extra time to upgrade to current software. For computers owned by UC Davis, or managed by your department's IT staff, contact your IT support staff or your Unit Information Security Lead. Department IT staff seeking information on Extended Security Updates licensing from Microsoft should contact UC Davis Software Licensing at ucdsoftware@ucdavis.edu.

For general information, see the Windows 7 and Office 2010 End of Support FAQ.

Need help?

If you need assistance or have questions about this process, please contact your local IT support staff or your Unit Information Security Lead.
You may also contact the IT Express Service Desk at 530-754-HELP (4357).

*IS-3 12.6 Technical vulnerability management and patch management. Units must only use supported and patched versions of hardware and software

Upgrades for students and for home use by faculty, staff

UC Davis students can obtain a free upgrade to Windows 10 through OnTheHub, a software reseller that works with UC Davis. See https://ucdavis.onthehub.com/WebStore/OfferingDetails.aspx?o=b0b7676f-1841-e511-940f-b8ca3a5db7a1

Faculty and staff who want to upgrade a machine at home should talk to their department IT staff.

Where can I get help to end my use of Windows 7?

Please read the information on this website for basic guidance and options. Then if you have questions, please contact your department or unit's IT support.

If you're not sure how to proceed, contact the IT Express Service Desk.

How do I prepare for an operating system upgrade?

You have probably installed operating system upgrades before, so let experience guide you.

Set aside time to install the upgrade, and then perform the work. Installing software updates usually requires only minimal effort from the user. Save your work before beginning the installation.

If you have questions about how to proceed, talk to your department or unit's IT support, or contact IT Express.

How do I request a security exception so I can keep using Windows 7?

Exceptions will be considered only if the computer using Windows 7 cannot be upgraded, and cannot obtain Microsoft's Extended Security Updates for the software. See information in the main body of this page, and talk with your department's IT support staff. Please submit any security exception requests to the Information Security Office by Jan. 2, 2020, to allow time to implement mitigations needed to address the risks posed by the continued use of unsupported Windows 7.

If you obtain Extended Security Updates for Windows 7, you do not need to file for a policy exception at this time.

What happens if I run a Windows 7 computer after Jan. 14, 2020?

If you have not obtained Microsoft's Extended Security Updates, then the machine is no longer secure enough to use with the campus network. Using the machine:

Exposes you, your work and information, your coworkers, and UC Davis to an increased risk of malware, viruses, and hacks.
Violates UC Office of the President and UC Davis policy.