Microsoft may end Security Essentials antivirus updates on XP in April

ZDNet is reporting that a spokesman for Microsoft is saying that XP users may lose anti-virus updates if they are using Microsoft Security Essentials.


"Microsoft will not guarantee updates of our antimalware signature and engine after the XP end of support date of April 8, 2014. Running antivirus on out of support operating systems is not an adequate solution to help protect against threats. Running a well-protected solution starts with using modern software and hardware designed to help protect against today’s threat landscape. In addition, Microsoft recommends best practices to protect your PC such as: 1) running up to date antivirus, 2) regularly applying security updates for all software installed, and 3) using modern software that has advanced security technologies and is supported with regular security updates."

Here’s what happens next. XP users will complain, because that’s what internet comments are for, right? Even if the people commenting don’t use XP. Microsoft will backpedal and offer updates for one more year.

Wait for it...