A few days ago, we told you about a simple registry hack for Windows XP that would let you continue to receive security updates.
Windows XP, of course, was killed in April 2014 by Microsoft and will no longer receive security updates.
However, the registry hack we mentioned tricks Microsoft into thinking that your PC uses the same Windows XP software as ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) machines, both of which will continue to receive updates.
You can read our tutorial here: https://www.fixmypcfree.com/blog/windows-xp-registry-tweak-lets-users-continue-receiving-software-updates/
It’s quite easy to do, even if you don’t have a lot of tech experience.
However, Microsoft recently realized what people were doing to continue receiving XP security updates and it frowns on the practice.
In a statement, Microsoft said:
“We recently became aware of a hack that purportedly aims to provide security updates to Windows XP customers. The security updates that could be installed are intended for Windows Embedded and Windows Server 2003 customers and do not fully protect Windows XP customers,”
Well, duh, everybody knew that. However, since Windows Server 2003 is based on a kernel of Windows XP, most of the updates seem to work okay so far – even if they’re not fully compatible with every layer of Windows XP.
Of course, Microsoft summed up its statement with a plug for Windows 8.1 (but also kindly included Windows 7 in the statement):
“Windows XP customers also run a significant risk of functionality issues with their machines if they install these updates, as they are not tested against Windows XP. The best way for Windows XP customers to protect their systems is to upgrade to a more modern operating system, like Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.”
According to all reports online, the registry hack we’ve featured works perfectly okay for now. Windows continues to download security updates and appears to protect your PC without any major issues.
Use the registry trick at your own risk, however. It may only be a matter of time before an update wipes out Windows XP computers around the world.
