Windows 7 End of Support FAQs
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Answers to the most common questions about Kareo ending support for the Windows 7 operating system (OS) on January 15, 2021.
Windows 7 End of Support FAQs |
| Question | Answer |
| What is happening? | Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 on January 14, 2020, causing all machines running Windows 7 to no longer receive critical updates and functional testing. As a result, Kareo customers on Windows 7 may be more at risk for viruses and security breaches. Resource: Support for Windows 7 has ended |
| What is Microsoft's official statement? | "After 10 years, support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. We know change can be difficult, so we are here to help you with recommendations for what to do next and to answer questions about end of support." Resource: Support for Windows 7 has ended |
| What does "end of support" mean according to Microsoft? | "As of January 14, 2020, your computer running Windows 7 will still function but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:
While you could continue to use your PC running Windows 7, without continued software and security updates, it will be at greater risk for viruses and malware. Going forward, the best way for you to stay secure is on Windows 10. And the best way to experience Windows 10 is on a new PC. While it is possible to install Windows 10 on your older device, it is not recommended." Resource: Support for Windows 7 has ended |
| I have more questions about Microsoft ending support for Windows 7. Where can I get more information? | You can find more information on the below Microsoft Support page. Resource: Windows 7 support ended on January 14, 2020 |
| What does this mean for Kareo customers? | Effective January 15, 2021, all Kareo applications are no longer compatible on computers running Windows 7, XP, Vista, or any older version. Customers must use a computer with Windows 10 (Windows 8 and 8.1 can be used, but Microsoft is expected to retire these versions shortly). Note: Computers using older versions are more vulnerable to viruses and security breaches. In addition, Kareo features won't perform well on legacy operating systems. |
| Why do I need to upgrade from Windows 7? | Windows 7 has been operating and supported since 2009 and was decommissioned by Microsoft in January 2020, causing all machines running Windows 7 to no longer receive critical updates and functional testing. Kareo strongly recommends upgrading your system to Windows 10 as soon as possible. This ensures you meet HIPAA and CMS Incentive Program requirements, reduces your risk of being impacted by viruses and security breaches, and ensures an optimal experience on the Kareo platform. By continuing to access Kareo on a Windows 7 machine after January 15, 2021, you are accepting responsibility for the performance, security, and stability of Kareo products and services running on that device. |
| Can I just upgrade to Windows 8 or 8.1? | To ensure a continued optimal experience on the Kareo platform, we highly recommend upgrading to Windows 10 as Microsoft support for Windows 8 and 8.1 is also expected to end shortly. |
| How can a customer like me verify what Windows OS they have? | Kareo recommends the below Microsoft Support page for guidance. Resource: Which version of Windows operating system am I running? |
| If I am a Windows 7 user, how can I upgrade? Where do I start? | Kareo recommends the What can I do now? section of the below Microsoft Support page for guidance or reach out to your IT team/technology department. Resource: Support for Windows 7 has ended |
| What if I'm using a Mac computer and running emulators? | You need to upgrade your Windows OS as well. |
| What happens if I log in on a computer with an unsupported Windows OS? | By continuing to access Kareo from a computer with an unsupported Windows OS, you are accepting responsibility for the performance, security, and stability of Kareo products and services running on that device. |
| Will my Kareo access be impacted by Kareo not supporting Windows 7? | You can still access the Kareo applications and they will continue to work on computers running Windows 7. However, by continuing to access Kareo on a Windows 7 machine after January 15, 2021, you are accepting responsibility for the performance, security, and stability of Kareo products and services running on that device. |
| Does this impact the web-based Kareo applications (e.g., Platform, Clinical, Billing, Engage)? | Yes. This impacts all web-based applications as well. The latest web browser versions may not be supported on Windows 7 putting you at greater risk of viruses and security breaches. |
| How does this impact me as a Kareo user? | Effective January 15, 2021, in light of the foregoing increased security risks and potential compatibility issues, Kareo will no longer conduct testing or offer support for devices running Windows 7. This means if you have any technical issues, our team only provides basic support and is unable to provide in-depth troubleshooting. Additionally, by continuing to access Kareo on a Windows 7 machine after January 15, 2021, you are accepting responsibility for the performance, security, and stability of Kareo products and services running on that device. |
| Who can I contact at Kareo if I have more questions? | Contact Kareo Support for any additional questions about this update. |